Skate 2 Arrives January 21

Electronic Arts announced today that Black Box's PS3 and Xbox 360 skateboarding sequel Skate 2, long promised to hit in early 2009, will hit North American retailers on January 21, followed by a worldwide release on January 23.

The sequel packs a number of new additions to the series, including the ability to hop off that skateboard and push objects around in an attempt to construct better trick lines. Those that pre-order the game from unspecified North America retailers will receive a code for an unlockable "Throwback Pack," described as "a special upgrade pack that includes retro clothing, accessories and gestures."

Furthering the customization focus, a web-based Graphics Creator, due on the Skate site in December, will let users brand in-game clothing with custom designs.