VGC journalist Jordan Middler has once again hinted (via Reddit) that Sony may be revisiting older PlayStation franchises, including Ape Escape, following comments made during a recent podcast appearance.
Speaking during the latest VGC Podcast, Middler discussed classic Sony properties he would like to see return, specifically mentioning Ape Escape and Wipeout. “They need to get that little ape back,” Middler said. “That little ape and the rest of the little apes. It can’t just be one ape cuz it’d be a boring game if you were collecting one ape.”
He also praised Wipeout Omega Collection on PlayStation 4, adding that “a new Wipeout would be great.”
While the comments alone could be interpreted as casual discussion, this is not the first time Middler has suggested that Sony may be working on an Ape Escape-related project. During an earlier appearance on Jeff Gerstmann’s podcast, Middler directly stated, “They’ll announce that Ape Escape they’re making.”
In the same discussion, Middler spoke about Sony potentially bringing back older catalog franchises alongside major blockbuster series. “I think some of those efforts if they are going to really go in that direction,” he said, adding that he had “a gut feeling combined with some information” when connecting the dots around Sony’s future plans.
At this stage, there is no official confirmation from Sony regarding a new Ape Escape game, remake, or reboot. The comments remain firmly in rumor territory.
Originally released in 1999 for the original PlayStation, Ape Escape became one of Sony’s most recognizable early platformers and is widely remembered for requiring the use of the DualShock controller’s twin analog sticks. The series built its identity around gadget-based gameplay and capturing mischievous, helmet-wearing monkeys across a variety of themed levels.
The franchise received multiple sequels and spin-offs during the PlayStation 2 era, though the last major mainline entry launched in 2005. Since then, Ape Escape has largely remained dormant, aside from legacy re-releases and cameo appearances in Astro Bot titles developed by Team Asobi.
Fan demand for a modern revival has persisted for years, particularly because many believe the series would be well-suited to the PlayStation 5 DualSense controller’s advanced haptics and adaptive triggers. For now, however, Sony has not officially announced a return for the franchise.
