I used to love tony Hawk also but skate is a completely different ball game. Fun to play with someone once they get used to the controls, which are quite tricky, but fun once mastered.
I got the demo, the 3 levels of realism (difficulty) helps you to get started and not throw the controller at the TV.
The controlling and tricks system is very easy to learn and apply.
Graphics is quite nice, I'll be seriously looking at buying this game.
I tried the demo too. I looks and moves very similar to Skate 2. I think the low price points shows that the powers that be realise that too.
I loved the first Skate though. I couldn't put it down.