With the release of Electronic Arts' Skate (Xbox 360, PS3) right around the corner, we could smell sweaty anticipation from miles away. EA's attempt to reach a market dominated by Tony Hawk's Pro Skater may very well be a successful one, as most of us know what the gig is all about. Here are some videos showing off what this down-to-earth video game has to offer.

By down-to-earth, we don't mean Skate will be lacking the bells and whistles of a complete skating game. What it brings to the table is more realistic skateboarding, almost strict physics, and no death-defying jumps off half-pipes. Doesn't sound too rad, you say? The first couple of videos will show you what tricks you can bust and how good they look.

The third one is a short but sweet advertisement about encouraging your thumb to nail tricks while playing Skate. That's right - your thumb. Through flickit controls, a dexterous thumb and sticks can do wonders. Find out more by checking the videos out.