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Review of Ape Escape on PlayStation

by Chucky Chucky photo Jun 1999
Cover image of Ape Escape on PlayStation
Gamefings Score: 9
Platform: PlayStation PlayStation logo
Released: 22 Jun 1999
Genre: Platform, Action-adventure
Developer: Sony Computer Entertainment Japan
Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment

Introduction

Ladies and gentlemen, put down your bananas and pay attention! In a world where monkeys have decided to take matters into their own hands, literally, we find ourselves thrust into the chaotic, tree-twitching adventure that is 'Ape Escape.' That's right! Instead of being the usual heroic knight or a Jedi in training, we get to chase down a group of mischievous primates like a hyped-up zoo keeper on a caffeine spree. What could possibly go wrong? Let's dig into the madness!

Gameplay

So, the story kicks off with our not-so-heroic hero, Spike. He slaps on a net and gets to work capturing the runaway ectoplasm of the monkey kingdom. Picture this: apes, equipped with helmets, doing everything from sipping juice to plotting world domination from their time-traveling escapades. The villain? A particularly intelligent primate named Specter, who now has all the smarts and none of the common sense. If only he had used those skills to organize a proper zoo outing. You'll wander through vividly colored landscapes that oscillate between being pretty as a postcard and chaotic as a toddler's birthday party. The main goal: use a wild assortment of gadgets-because what's more fun than combining monkey-catching with high-tech toys? From nets to a vehicle that I can only describe as a 'time-traveling banana boat,' you'll be navigating crazy environments while trying to lasso these escapees like a pro cowboy at their annual rodeo. The real twist? The controls! 'Ape Escape' was the first title to make full use of the PlayStation's DualShock controller, literally putting the "wacky" in "wacky control schemes." Expect to twiddle your thumbs as you wrestle with joysticks like they're mashed potatoes. Left moves Spike, right twiddles the gadgets, and don't even think about getting into an argument with the monkeys-they're more agile than a squirrel on a sugar rush.

Graphics

Now, let's talk visuals. For a game that's over two decades old, it still looks like a candy shop exploded on a sunny day. The colors are vibrant, so much so that they could probably power a small city if you could bottle them up. The environments are crafted with enough attention to detail that you might forget you're chasing monkeys and start looking for Easter eggs hidden by the devs instead. Just don't let those pastel hues fool you; they mask the sheer terror that comes from trying to chase down these little furballs as they swing away like they own the place.

Conclusion

'Ape Escape' is that delicious slice of nostalgia you didn't know you needed. It brings back the joy of being a kid trying to catch a wayward kitten (but way more chaotic) and takes you on a wild ride through time, where monkeys have somehow gotten their paws on time machines. The zany gameplay, innovative controls, and a plot that can only be described as absolutely bananas make it an absolute must-play. In short, whether you're a fan of platformers, a retro gamer, or someone who just likes watching monkeys do ridiculous things, 'Ape Escape' is an experience you'll want to dive into. Unless you're afraid of monkeys. In that case, might I suggest a walking simulator instead?

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