If you’ve played Astro Bot already, then you know that its best levels are its “hero” stages. These special challenges put Astro in the center of different PlayStation games once the boss in each world is defeated. One memorable level transports him to the world of Ape Escape, a reminder of the quality of the game and its potential for a comeback.
Ape Escape was a popular PlayStation series in the past, with three mainline entries and a PS3 spinoff. However, it has been dormant for a while until its appearance in Astro Bot.
The Ape Escape level in Astro Bot faithfully recreates the original game mechanics. Astro must catch wandering apes using an oversized butterfly net, adding a fun and challenging gameplay element to the experience.
Team Asobi’s ability to create responsive gameplay for the PS5, combined with the timeless appeal of Ape Escape’s puzzle-platformer mechanics, makes the level engaging and enjoyable. The nod to Ape Escape in Astro Bot has sparked interest in a potential revival of the series.
While Team Asobi is a strong candidate for creating an Ape Escape revival, there is also a desire for new studios to explore the franchise. The current gaming landscape calls for fresh ideas, and Team Asobi’s success with Astro Bot showcases their creative potential.
The timing seems right for an Ape Escape comeback, aligning with the growing demand for family-friendly games on the PS5. Sony’s focus on new IP development makes it an exciting prospect to revisit classic franchises like Ape Escape.
