Tony Hawk: Ride is a spin-off of the Tony Hawk skateboarding series. The game comes with a wireless peripheral shaped like a real skateboard, which is needed to play the game. Players stand on the board and then infrared sensors detect the motion to control the character in the game. Rather than merely turning, the game detects leaning for the force of the direction, raising the tail or nose (for manuals and ollies), and reaching down to mimic a grab which is registered through separate sensors in front and to the sides by blocking them with a hand. Pushing off is done by brushing a leg along the ground next to the board to gain speed. More complex tricks are done through leaning and twisting the board.
The game consists of different environments that can be played in a free skating mode in parks or by completing missions in a campaign. The campaign takes place in cities all over the world, including Barcelona, Chicago, Frankfurt, New York, and Tokyo. There is also a challenge mode where specific objectives need to be completed. Game modes include tricks and speed challenges, such as skating in half-pipes. Completing missions is needed to keep progressing through the game and unlock new regions.
The game allows players to create their own custom skater at the start. As they progress, new items and gear can be unlocked, along with pro skaters. The controls are introduced through multiple training videos. While skating, a style meter fills up by performing multiple successful tricks in succession. When full, it adds visual flair to the moves with effects.
The game supports competitive online multiplayer for players who have subscriptions, but local multiplayer supports up to eight players taking turns. Note that there is no online multiplayer available on this console.