Tony Hawk's Pro Skater: School 2 Open Gym Secrets
Alright guys, let's dive into one of the most iconic levels in skateboarding video game history: School 2 from Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 1+2! Specifically, we're cracking open the secrets of the elusive Open Gym area. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a newbie just grinding your way through, this guide will help you unlock everything School 2 has to offer, with a special focus on getting into that darn Open Gym. So, grab your board (or controller), and let's get rolling!
Unlocking the Open Gym: A Step-by-Step Guide
Okay, so you're probably here because you've been staring at that massive Open Gym door, wondering how to get inside. Fear not, because the path to entry is actually quite straightforward, once you know the steps. The Open Gym is a hidden area within the School II level in Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 1 + 2. The Open Gym is a large indoor gymnasium with a variety of ramps, rails, and other obstacles for performing tricks. Here's how to unlock it:
- Find the Secret Hall Pass: Your first mission, should you choose to accept it, is to locate the Secret Hall Pass. This isn't just lying around in plain sight; you'll need to do a little exploring. Head towards the area where the rows of lockers are. You'll notice a small set of stairs leading up to a higher platform with some rails. Instead of grinding the rails, look to your left. You should see a hall pass floating in the air. Jump and grab it! This hall pass is your golden ticket.
 - Ring the Bells: Once you've got the hall pass, it's time to make some noise! There are five bells scattered throughout the School 2 level. You need to ring all of them to unlock the Open Gym. Here's where to find them:
- Bell #1: From the starting point, head straight and slightly to the left. You'll see a bell hanging above a ramp. Grind the ramp and jump to ring the bell.
 - Bell #2: Go to the library (the area with the big ramps and the quarter pipe). You'll find a bell hanging near the top of one of the ramps. Use the ramp to gain enough height and jump to ring the bell.
 - Bell #3: Head back towards the lockers area. You'll find a bell hanging above the long set of stairs leading down to the lower section of the level. Gain some speed and jump over the stairs to ring the bell.
 - Bell #4: Go to the area with the pool. You'll see a bell hanging above the pool. Use the ramps around the pool to gain enough height and jump to ring the bell.
 - Bell #5: This one is a bit tricky. Head to the rooftop area (you can get there by grinding the electrical wire from the top of the library). You'll find the final bell hanging near the edge of the roof. Be careful not to fall off!
 
 - Open the Gym: After ringing all five bells, the Open Gym doors will magically swing open. Head back to the main school hallway, and you'll see the once-impenetrable doors are now wide open, inviting you to shred the gnar within.
 
Mastering the Open Gym: Tricks and Tips
So, you've made it inside the Open Gym. Now what? Well, this is where the real fun begins! The Open Gym is a skateboarding paradise, packed with ramps, rails, and gaps just begging to be conquered. Let's break down some key areas and tricks to help you dominate this space.
- The Mini Ramp Arena: As soon as you enter, you'll be greeted by a collection of mini ramps. These are perfect for practicing your transition tricks, like airs, reverts, and grinds. Try linking together a series of tricks to maximize your score.
 - The Rail Maze: To the side of the mini ramps, you'll find a network of rails. This is your chance to show off your grinding skills. Experiment with different grind combinations, like 50-50s, boardslides, and nosegrinds. Don't forget to throw in some manuals to extend your combos.
 - The Big Air Ramp: At the back of the Open Gym, you'll spot a massive ramp. This is where you can really launch yourself into the air and pull off some insane aerial tricks. Try doing flips, spins, and grabs to impress the judges (or just yourself).
 - Secret Areas: Keep an eye out for hidden areas within the Open Gym. There are a few gaps and hidden platforms that can lead to bonus points and challenges. Explore every nook and cranny to uncover all the secrets.
 
Optimizing Your Runs: High Score Strategies
Okay, so you know the layout and some basic tricks. Now, let's talk strategy. How do you maximize your score and become a School 2 Open Gym legend? Here are a few tips:
- Combo is Key: The longer your combo, the higher your score multiplier. Focus on linking together tricks without bailing. Use manuals and reverts to maintain your combo between obstacles.
 - Use the Environment: Don't just skate the ramps and rails. Look for opportunities to grind ledges, wall ride, and bonk off objects. The more creative you are, the higher your score will be.
 - Master Special Tricks: Each skater has a set of special tricks that are worth a ton of points. Learn these tricks and incorporate them into your combos to significantly boost your score.
 - Complete Challenges: Pay attention to the challenges listed in the pause menu. Completing these challenges will earn you extra points and unlock new content.
 - Perfect Your Landing: A wobbly landing can break your combo and cost you valuable points. Strive for clean, controlled landings to keep your score multiplier intact.
 
School 2: More Than Just an Open Gym
While the Open Gym is a highlight, School 2 has plenty more to offer. From secret tapes to stat points, this level is packed with collectibles and challenges that will keep you coming back for more.
Finding the Secret Tape
The Secret Tape is one of the most sought-after collectibles in each level. In School 2, the Secret Tape is located in a tricky spot that requires some precise skating. From the starting point, head towards the library. Instead of going inside, look to your right. You'll see a series of awnings. Grind along the awnings, and you'll eventually reach the Secret Tape. Be careful not to fall off!
Collecting Stat Points
Stat Points allow you to upgrade your skater's abilities, making them faster, more agile, and more capable of pulling off insane tricks. In School 2, there are several Stat Points hidden throughout the level. Here are a few locations:
- Above the Lockers: Use the ramps near the lockers to launch yourself into the air and grab a Stat Point floating above the lockers.
 - In the Library: Grind the rails in the library to reach a Stat Point located near the ceiling.
 - On the Rooftop: Grind the electrical wire from the library to reach the rooftop and collect a Stat Point.
 
Completing the Challenges
School 2 features a variety of challenges that will test your skateboarding skills. Completing these challenges will earn you extra points, unlock new content, and help you master the level. Here are a few examples:
- Ollie the Magic Bum 2: Find the Magic Bum and ollie over him twice.
 - Nosegrab Over the Table: Perform a nosegrab over the table in the cafeteria.
 - Grind 3 Rails: Grind three different rails in a single combo.
 
Conclusion: School's Out, Shred's In!
So there you have it, guys! A comprehensive guide to unlocking the Open Gym and mastering School 2 in Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 1+2. With these tips and strategies, you'll be shredding like a pro in no time. Remember to explore, experiment, and most importantly, have fun! Now go out there and conquer School 2!