Want to switch up your trick setup in THPS 3+4? Here’s a no-BS guide on how to remap inputs, equip Special Tricks, and style your skater your way. Max out your moveset and shred harder!
Remap Tricks & Equip Special Moves in THPS 3+4 – A Skater’s Guide to Going Pro
Look, we’ve all been there—your skater’s busting out a stale kickflip every other combo, and that sweet Special Trick you just unlocked? Nowhere in your rotation. Yeah, THPS 3+4 lets you swap out moves and remap inputs, but the menus are a bit… well, buried.
So if you’re trying to hit those clean lines with the perfect bag of tricks, here’s how to actually customize your skater’s moves without rage-quitting the menu system.
Why Bother Customizing Tricks?
If you’re serious about combos or just want your skater to reflect your personal style, tweaking your trick inputs is a must. The default layouts are fine, but some of them feel awkward mid-line. Want to replace that lame Airwalk with a McTwist? You can—and should.
Custom tricks also help you avoid overlapping inputs that could mess up your flow (especially if you’re juggling manuals, reverts, and combos like a madman).
How to Equip Special Tricks (aka the flashy stuff)
- Pick Your Skater
From the main menu, hit the “Skater” tab, or dive into any game mode and press Y (Xbox) or △ (PS) to bring up the skater select. - Open the “Tricks” Section
Once you’re on the character screen, you’ll spot a “Tricks” table. That’s your Special Trick grid. You’ll start with just a few unlocked, but don’t worry—you can earn more by grinding Challenges (literally and figuratively). - Slot Your Specials
Tap into any empty slot or existing Special you wanna swap. You’ll see a full list of that skater’s available Special Tricks. Pick the one you want and back out to save.
🛹 Pro Tip: Your Special Tricks only work if your SPECIAL meter is lit. So, don’t expect to hit a 900 unless you’ve been keeping your combos clean.
How to Remap Regular Tricks (Grab, Flip, Lip)
- Same Starting Point
Main Menu > “Skater” tab > Choose your skater > “Tricks” tab. - Go Deep
Scroll down and you’ll see the trick categories: Grab Tricks, Flip Tricks, and Lip Tricks. Pick the category you want to tweak. - Remap the Inputs
Each trick is tied to a directional input + a button. Select one, and you’ll get a list of every trick you can assign to that combo. Pick your fave, exit, and it’ll save automatically.
🎮 Quick Tip: If a trick input feels clunky during combos, try moving it to a different direction. For example, I like to put slower animations (like Benihana) on inputs I rarely use, and fast ones (like Kickflip) on go-to keys.
Bonus: What Tricks Should You Equip?
- Fast Specials: Tricks like the Kickflip Underflip or Double Impossible are snappy and great for extending long combo chains.
- Showoff Specials: The 900, Darkslide, or Sacktap are pure style, perfect for nailing big finishers.
- Combo Fuel: Equip easy-to-hit tricks early on, then slot the flashy ones once you’ve warmed up your flow.
Final Thoughts
Customizing tricks in THPS 3+4 isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s a legit way to improve your performance and crank out longer, smoother lines. Yeah, the menu layout could be better (RIP UX design), but once you know where to look, it’s easy to make your skater feel like an extension of your playstyle.
So go wild—remap, retool, and ride your way. Just don’t forget to land it.