Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 1 + 2 is a single-player and multiplayer skateboarding sports game. The game is a combined remake of the the original Tony Hawk's Pro Skater and Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 2 games. Players take the role of professional skateboarders, including Tony Hawk and other real-world athletes, or custom skaters created in the editor. The objective is to complete a variety of challenges across different skate parks and urban environments, such as collecting hidden items, reaching high scores, chaining tricks, and unlocking new stages.

Core gameplay revolves around performing tricks and building long combos. Players use manuals, reverts, grabs, flips, grinds, and wallrides to link moves together, with style and variety contributing to higher scores. Each stage provides a two-minute time limit to accomplish objectives, though free skate and practice options allow for unrestricted play. The physics system emphasizes arcade-style responsiveness, rewarding experimentation and fluid transitions between moves.

Progression is handled through accumulating points, completing goals, and unlocking new parks from both the original games. Skaters have unique stats such as balance, speed, and hangtime, which can be upgraded by finding stat points hidden throughout levels. Cash and collectibles are also scattered around stages, providing rewards that expand customization options for skaters, boards, and clothing.

The game includes both single-player tours and multiplayer modes. Split-screen local multiplayer returns, with options for trick attack, graffiti, horse, and other competitive challenges. Online play introduces leaderboards, ranked matchmaking, and casual sessions, allowing players to compete globally. The Create-a-Park feature lets players design and share custom skate parks, while Create-a-Skater allows personalization of characters with a range of outfits and gear.