Even a silly concept doesn't prevent Ape Escape from being a great game.
Ape Escape's plot is similar to the one found in the TimeSplitters games, only sillier. A group of monkeys, under the leading of the evil Specter goes back in time and now mankind's future in about to be torn to pieces. That is unless Spike, a 10-year old boy goes after them and catches them before it's too late. The plot is probably the silliest plot to come around in a long time, but even a silly concept doesn't prevent Ape Escape from being a great game.
Ape Escape is very unique than most platforming games. Can you name any other game where you're going around catching monkeys with a net? I thought so. It's not always easy though, as some monkeys are more skilled than others. Some monkeys are more aware of you, some can see you from miles away and some of them might even be armed. Other monkeys are unaware and dumb like well, monkeys. To catch the monkeys your good friend the Professor has provided you with an arsenal of useful and wacky gadgets. At your disposal is a remote controlled car that can be used to get into spaces that Spike can't fit through, a radar that'll help you see where the monkeys are and a propeller that makes you fly etc.
These gadgets are both fun and easy to use thanks to the game's unique control scheme. Being the first game ever that requires an analog controller the game uses the left analog stick for movement and the right one for using the gadgets. It's also a big plus that you control the power/speed of some of these gadgets depending on how fast or slow you move the analog sticks.
Being released in 1999, the graphics were great at the time. Even today, 10 years later they're still rather stunning. Texture and character models are as detailed and colorful as you could possibly ask for. The music is even better; it hooks you on and makes time traveling a blast for both your eyes, fingers and ears.
There's not much to complain about with Ape Escape. The only thing I can think of is that the game won't be as fun the second time you'll play through it, which you will most likely do. Along with Tekken 3, Driver, Metal Gear Solid and Tomb Raider, Ape Escape is an instant classic and a must have for anyone that owns a Sony Playstation.