Ape Escape 2

"Ah, nothing like sun, scenery, power hungry monkeys..."

Let me start off by saying that Ape Escape 2 is a very fun game. But, since that isn't likely to convince you just as claiming that asparagus is yummy isn't likely to convince me, I'm willing to elaborate.

I'll admit that I never played the original Ape Escape on Playstation, but that doesn't mean I never heard of it. After reading a review on the game here and there, I decided to check it out. Unfortunately I could not find it anywhere nearby, perhaps I didn't look hard enough. No big deal, I couldn't have missed too much...could I have?

Then came the sequel.

One day not so very long ago (more like two weeks ago), I finally purchased this gem of a sleeper hit. Within an hour I realized just how much I HAD missed by not playing the original, and I was ultimately hooked to a game centered around a seemingly basic concept: capturing monkeys with a net.

Now that I've over-dramatized enough, I'll get on with the review...

Story: 8/10

To be honest, this type of game doesn't need a good story to keep it going OR to keep you interested. You could just run around and catch monkeys for no particular reason other than for pure enjoyment. However, the developers probably thought that would be sort of stupid, so there's a motivating yet simple story attached.

Jimmy, the lead character of the game, accidentally sent some helmets along with a shipment of pants to a large group of monkeys. These helmets are not just any ordinary helmets, they boost the intelligence of those who wear them. On top of that, a very intelligent white monkey, named Specter, is now leading the super-smart monkeys on a quest to take over the world. It's up to Jimmy and his little friend Pipotchi, along with help from Natalie and the Professor, to capture the monkeys and prevent the simians from achieving world domination.

No, it isn't a great story, but given the game I doubt there could be a much better one.

Graphics: 9/10

Two words: Eye candy!

The designs of each level are simply astonishing. I guarantee that this game doesn't offer anything new graphics-wise, but it definitely puts what it has to good use. The characters themselves are a tad blocky when shown close-up, but it isn't anything too distracting. Personally I think the monkeys look just as they should: goofy and dangerous at the same time. There's ninja monkeys, disco monkeys, even mermaid monkeys. Also, each monkey's attitude is symbolized by the color of it's pants. Weird.

The landscapes and backgrounds are probably the best out of the graphics, but that's no surprise with platformers. Each level is clearly distinguished from the one before it, and presented in such a way to make you almost feel like you're actually there. Everywhere from the streets of a Spanish looking village, to a haunted castle, to the snowcapped mountains of a ski resort, everything looks perfect. Even the inside of the Gadget Trainer is graphically appealing. In short, this game is beautiful!

Gameplay: 8/10

For the most part, things run smoothly. The controls can be tricky at first, but the learning curve should be low for most platform gamers. Believe me, you'll understand why you'll be using the R1 button to jump. My only real gripe is with the camera. It stays stationary most of the time, but will move on its own whenever you're trying to stay still (crucial for capturing some monkeys.) It seems to be stuck in it's own little world some of the time, but if you can look past it then it shouldn't be a problem. Obviously the point of the game is to capture the menacing monkeys, but there are many other things you'll do along the way:

There are up to 12 gadgets including the Monkey Net that you'll acquire throughout the game. Before entering a new level where a new gadget will be required, Natalie or the Professor will send it to you along with offering the option to train with the new gadget in the Gadget Trainer. I would recommend choosing that option, at least for the Gold Coins you can collect there. The Professor has also developed vehicles for you to use in some areas, such as a submarine and the Pipo Mech.

Speaking of Gold Coins, there are various things you can do in the Travel Station, sort of your focal point. There is a save area located in this room as well as the Gadget Trainer and Warp Pad which leads you to the levels. If you have ten or more Gold Coins, you can make use of the Gotcha Box to receive upgrades, extra lives or health, and even mini-games! There are other fun, yet almost useless things to collect here including concept art, comic strips, and Monkey Fables (classic fairy tales with monkey themes.)

There is plenty to do other than the main quest, so don't assume that you'll become bored quickly.

Sound: 8/10

Why oh why did I have haunting memories of Pokemon when playing this game? Oh, that's right, they hired the same voice actors. Yes, Jimmy and Natalie are voiced by Misty and Ash, or rather their voice actors. That doesn't make the voice acting a bad thing though, it's actually well done. As with most games, the voices sound a little forced, unenthusiastic, or overenthusiastic at times. It isn't a real problems, just a little annoying at times.

The music in the game really shines through. Like the setting of every level, the music is also different and fits the environment. The beach has slightly tropical/reggae style music while the haunted castle level has eerie chords playing. Most of the music is very relaxing and enjoyable, which is kind of rare in games nowadays. I won't lie, the music is repetitive, but somehow it's repetitive in a good way (if that even makes sense.) As much as I hate to say it, I found myself humming along sometimes. It can be that catchy!

Replay: 9/10

There are many reasons to keep playing upon completing the game. Since you're only required to capture a set number of monkeys for each level, you can go back later and try to capture them all. Also, the mini-games should keep you occupied for a while, not to mention attempting to collect everything from the Gotcha Box. Eventually you will run out of things to do, but hopefully not for a long time.

Overall: 8/10

Ape Escape 2 has a few flaws, but redeems itself in quality. If you played the original and liked it, then you'll love this. I recommend that anyone at least give this game a try, it shouldn't disappoint. You may want to rent first just to be sure, and if you like it then it's a definite buy!

Reviewer's Score: 8/10, Originally Posted: 07/28/03, Updated 07/28/03