Ape Escapes

Rather unsurprisingly, the aim of Ape Escape is to capture a number of apes who've, erm, escaped. The game's levels are set through a number of time zones, with the intro explaining the usual "mad professor time machine all going wrong type" plot. The cutscenes are nice, but Ape Escape is winning no prizes for its plot - it's the original gameplay slants that put this game in such a favourable light.

Each level in Ape Escape requires you to capture a set number of apes, using a variety of gadgets provided by the barmy professor who's let all the cheeky monkeys lose. Extensive use of the two sticks is made throughout the game - everything from swimming, to rowing a boat (very confusing! One stick for each oar) and swinging a sword in a large circle. The range of movements and degree of control is excellent. As well as standard 3D platforming action, the game demands players to use each of the tools to solve problems and overcome obstacles.

To prevent the game from becoming too daunting, the designers have included a number of sign posts throughout the levels which explain how everything works. The level structure and overall design is top notch, resulting in a game which is fun and which instills the player with a feeling of progression. The 3D graphics are decent, though not quite as good as some console games. The characters are well designed with some nice touches; watch for the apes dropping banana skins for you to slip up on! Audio is cute, if unspectacular. At the end of the day, Ape Escape is a winner because of its innovative gameplay and brilliant design.