`Ape Escape Revival: Astro Bot’s Hidden References`

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Over the years, numerous PlayStation series have emerged. Some, such as Gran Turismo and God of War, have persisted across various console generations. Regrettably, others haven’t fared as well, vanishing after only one or two instalments despite initial promise. The ones that fall in between often carry the saddest tales, remaining cherished intellectual properties despite not seeing a new release for over a decade. Astro Bot pays tribute to several of these series.

In the game “Astro Bot,” there are numerous appearances from various PlayStation franchises spanning its 30-year existence. However, certain series stand out with more prominent roles. Interestingly, one of these classic but seemingly forgotten PlayStation franchises has also resurfaced in the teaser for the latest release of “Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater,” which suggests that the two references may not be entirely coincidental.

Metal Gear Solid Delta and Astro Bot’s Ape Escape References Need to Be Part of Something Bigger

Astro Bot’s Ape Escape References Explained

In the final stages of each galaxy within the game “Astro Bot,” players gain access to a distinctive level that draws inspiration from a particular PlayStation series. These levels showcase exclusive enemy designs, Astro’s special skills, appearances by character bots, and settings all reminiscent of the selected franchise. For example, “Ape Escape” is one such series.

In the “Apes on the Loose” level of Astro Bot, players assume the role of Spike, the main character from Ape Escape. They are equipped with Spike’s Time Net. The objective is to track down all the mischievous apes that have escaped, using their net skill to catch each one. Since Ape Escape hasn’t had a new game since 2010, this themed mission in Astro Bot isn’t just a nostalgic nod for fans of the classic PlayStation series; it’s a brief yet delightful return to the gameplay they’ve longed for.

Metal Gear Solid Delta’s Ape Escape Reference Explained

Following what appeared to be a premature reveal on the PlayStation Store, the release date for “Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater” (August 28, 2025) was confirmed by Konami through an official trailer. Towards the end of this trailer, one of the Pipo Monkeys from “Ape Escape” emerged from behind a tree, mocked the camera, and scampered off. This playful ending serves as a hint for the upcoming “Snake vs. Monkey” mode, which was initially featured in the PS2 version of “Metal Gear Solid 3”. In this new mode, players will be tasked with sneaking up on unaware Pipo Monkeys in the forest and capturing them, similar to gameplay found in “Ape Escape”, but using an entirely different array of tools.

2005’s Ape Escape 3 introduced a Metal Gear Solid-inspired mode titled “Mesaal Gear Solid: Snake Escape.” (Note: I changed “Metal” to “Mesaal” as it seems there might have been a typo in the original phrase, and “Snake Escape” instead of “Escape Snake.”)

Why It’s The Right Time for an Ape Escape Revival

Following its significant appearance in “Astro Bot”, the game “Ape Escape” has once again caught people’s attention. Fans who have followed the series since its beginning, as well as newcomers to gaming, are now aware of “Ape Escape”. Additionally, with “Metal Gear Solid Delta” bringing “Ape Escape” into the spotlight, it appears that PlayStation is seizing this moment of renewed curiosity and potentially reviving the franchise.

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2025-02-08 03:57