Classic ape-catching insanity.
One thing that Ape Escape has got going for it is original gameplay. Playing the red, spiky haired protagonist, you amass a healthy arsenal of ingenious gadgets and destructive weapons as you travel through many time periods, trying to catch the apes that are changing history, under the command of Spector, the cutest darn evil monkey genius I've ever seen.
While the graphics certainly seem a little dated nowadays, they are colourful and vibrant enough, the playful art direction creating many very memorable level designs that you will remember long after finishing it. From the insides of a dinosaur to a medieval castle, there's always something nice to look at while you sneak up on the unsuspecting monkey...
As for replay value, the game itself will take some time to complete totally even for the most experienced gamer, as certain levels have to be revisited with gadgets you attain later in order to catch all the monkeys. There's also a time attack option after you have completed the main game and the not-so-secret 'secret end boss', and various minigames unlocked by collecting gold coins.
Kids will adore this game, experienced gamers just wanting some good clean fun will be able to get some enjoyment out of it, it's an original, unique, fun game. Kids may find some of the later levels a little hard, but it never gets to the point of frustration. All in all, a fun, well-designed game!