Top Skater
Short Overview
Top Skater is one of Sega's most unusual experience cabinets, released in 1997. Instead of a conventional joystick you stand on a lifelike skateboard that tilts forwards, backwards, and to the sides. Thanks to that real movement, it genuinely feels as though you were tearing through a skate park.
Basics
- Release1997
- DeveloperSega AM3
- GenreSports / skateboard simulator
- Players1–2 players
- HardwareSega Model 2
What Makes This Cabinet Special
Controls
Play It Live!
Hop on the board, pull off your most spectacular tricks, and experience one of Sega's most unusual sports games at the Arcade Hungary museum!
Insert CoinThe Goal of the Game
Finish the course within the time you are given, collect time bonuses, and pull off as many tricks as you can. The courses are packed with ramps, rails, and jumps: as you roll through them you can perform all sorts of tricks, each one worth points. The more spectacular your combinations, the higher your score — and good balance, quick reactions, and sharp timing are decisive in every run.
Did You Know?
Top Skater's director, Kenji Kanno, went on to lead development of the legendary Crazy Taxi. The similar style, energetic music, and sheer momentum of the two games is no coincidence — they come from the same creative team.
Fun Facts
- One of the first arcade games with a real skateboard controller.
- The soundtrack was provided by the Californian punk band Pennywise.
- Two players can race against each other.
- The game inspired the later Tony Hawk's Pro Skater series.
Why Is It Special?
Top Skater is not about pressing buttons. You genuinely have to move on the board, so every turn, jump, and trick becomes a physical experience. That unique control scheme and the driving punk soundtrack made it one of Sega's most memorable experience cabinets.
Who Is It For?
If you love skateboarding, the arcade atmosphere of the nineties, or simply want to try something genuinely unusual, Top Skater is guaranteed to put a smile on your face.