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Story

Saru! Get You!, known as Ape Escape in the West, offers a unique and whimsical storyline that captures the imagination of players. The game is set in a world where a mischievous monkey named Specter, who gains extraordinary intelligence from a special helmet, orchestrates a rebellion against humans. Specter’s plan involves sending an army of apes back in time to rewrite history in favor of the apes. Enter our protagonist, a young boy named Spike, who is tasked with the mission of capturing these wayward primates and restoring the timeline to its rightful course.

Spike’s journey is not just about battling apes; it’s an adventure through various historical settings, including prehistoric jungles, medieval castles, and futuristic cities. This backdrop provides a colorful canvas for Spike’s quest, making each level feel distinct and full of character. The narrative is driven by the quirky antics of the apes and the challenges they pose, keeping players engaged as they follow Spike’s heroic efforts to thwart Specter’s plans.

Gameplay

The gameplay of Saru! Get You! is where it truly shines, setting a new standard for platformers of its time. The game is credited with being the first PlayStation title to require the use of the DualShock controller, utilizing both analog sticks to enhance player interaction with the game world. This innovative control scheme allowed for unprecedented precision and creativity in gameplay.

Players control Spike using the left analog stick to move and the right stick to manipulate various gadgets. These gadgets, such as the Time Net and the Stun Club, are essential tools for capturing the apes. Each gadget offers unique mechanics, encouraging players to experiment with different approaches to capture the elusive primates. This variety in gameplay keeps the experience fresh and engaging throughout the adventure.

The game also features a diverse range of environments and levels, each filled with its own set of challenges and puzzles. Players must not only navigate platforming obstacles but also outsmart the apes, who become increasingly cunning as the game progresses. The combination of platforming, puzzle-solving, and strategic gadget use provides a well-rounded and satisfying gameplay experience.

Graphics and Sound

For its time, Saru! Get You! boasted impressive graphics that brought its vibrant world to life. The art style is colorful and cartoonish, perfectly complementing the game’s lighthearted tone. Characters and environments are well-designed, with attention to detail that adds depth to the visual experience. The animations of the apes, in particular, are lively and amusing, reflecting their playful nature and adding humor to the gameplay.

Sound design plays a crucial role in enhancing the overall atmosphere of the game. The soundtrack, composed by Soichi Terada, is upbeat and catchy, fitting the game’s whimsical theme. Each level’s music is distinct, helping to set the mood and immerse players in the different historical settings. Sound effects are equally well-crafted, from the clatter of Spike’s gadgets to the comical noises made by the apes, all contributing to a cohesive audio experience that complements the visual elements.

Legacy and Reception

Saru! Get You! was met with critical acclaim upon its release, praised for its innovative use of the DualShock controller and its engaging gameplay. It was a commercial success, establishing itself as a beloved title for the PlayStation and spawning a successful franchise that includes several sequels and spin-offs. The game’s unique control scheme set a precedent for future platformers, influencing the development of games that followed.

The game’s lasting impact is evident in its continued popularity and the fond memories it evokes among gamers who experienced it during its original run. Saru! Get You! is often cited as a classic example of innovative game design, and its influence can be seen in the way modern games incorporate motion controls and interactive mechanics. The franchise has maintained its charm over the years, with later entries expanding on the original’s concepts while staying true to its roots.

Conclusion

Saru! Get You! stands as a testament to the creativity and innovation of late 90s gaming. Its engaging story, pioneering gameplay mechanics, and charming presentation have left a lasting legacy in the gaming world. By challenging conventions and pushing the boundaries of what was possible with the PlayStation’s hardware, the game not only provided an unforgettable experience for its original audience but also paved the way for future advancements in game design.

As an integral part of the PlayStation’s history, Saru! Get You! continues to be celebrated by fans and remains a benchmark for quality in the platforming genre. Its impact is felt not only through its direct sequels but also in the broader landscape of video games, where the spirit of innovation and fun it embodied continues to inspire developers and entertain players around the world.