The right controller depends on which Ape Escape you mean. For the original game converted for PS4 and PS5, Sony lists DualSense for PS5 and DUALSHOCK 4 for PS4; that conversion does not support the consoles’ original peripherals. A separate PS3 Move experience uses a PlayStation Move motion controller with PlayStation Eye tracking. These are different games and setups, so check the specific version before buying hardware.
Which controller works with the PS4 and PS5 version?
The current US PlayStation Store listing is for the original PlayStation Ape Escape converted for PS4 and PS5. Sony identifies the DualSense wireless controller and DUALSHOCK 4 as playable controllers for this conversion. It also says the game does not support the PlayStation console’s original peripherals. That means a PlayStation Move controller is not the supported choice for this Store version.
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Choose the controller for the console you are using:
- PS5: DualSense wireless controller.
- PS4: DUALSHOCK 4 wireless controller.
These are the Store listing’s stated controller options, not a general compatibility claim for every Ape Escape release. Sony’s US PlayStation Store listing
#1 Best Overall
- This Certified Refurbished product is tested and certified to look and work like new. The refurbishing process includes functionality testing, basic cleaning, inspection, and repackaging. The product ships with all relevant accessories, a minimum 90-day warranty, and may arrive in a generic box. Only select sellers who maintain a high performance bar may offer Certified Refurbished products on Amazon.com
- Sony PlayStation 3 Move Motion Controller
What does the PS3 Move setup require?
The separate PS3 Move Ape Escape experience uses a PlayStation Move motion controller and a PlayStation Eye camera. The camera tracks the glowing sphere on the Move controller, while sensors inside the controller measure motion. Sony describes the Move system as combining camera tracking with internal motion sensors; it is not simply a standard gamepad with motion controls.
Move motion controller and PlayStation Eye
The Move controller provides the motion input, and the PlayStation Eye detects the controller’s sphere. Sony’s Move system announcement describes the PS3 and PlayStation Eye working together to detect movement, angle, and position. Its controller hardware includes a gyroscope, accelerometer, magnetic-field sensor, and a color-changing sphere.
Rank #2
- This Certified Refurbished product is tested and certified to look and work like new. The refurbishing process includes functionality testing, basic cleaning, inspection, and repackaging. The product ships with all relevant accessories, a minimum 90-day warranty, and may arrive in a generic box. Only select sellers who maintain a high performance bar may offer Certified Refurbished products on Amazon.com
- Charge the controller and automatically pair with the PS3 system via a USB cable
- 1 Move Controller and 1 USB Cable
Optional secondary navigation input
Some compatible games can use a Navigation Controller or a DUALSHOCK 3/SIXAXIS for secondary navigation inputs. The Navigation Controller has a left stick and directional buttons; it does not replace the Move controller’s motion sensing. Sony says a compatible DUALSHOCK 3 or SIXAXIS can substitute for the Navigation Controller, not for the Move motion controller. The Navigation Controller manual also specifies PS3 system software version 3.40 or later for that accessory. Sony’s Navigation Controller manual and PlayStation’s Move FAQ
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Compare the choices by game and console
| Use case | Controller or setup | What to know |
|---|---|---|
| PS5, original Ape Escape Store conversion | DualSense wireless controller | Sony lists it as playable for this PS4/PS5 conversion; the listing says original console peripherals are unsupported. PlayStation Store |
| PS4, original Ape Escape Store conversion | DUALSHOCK 4 wireless controller | Sony lists it as playable for this conversion. PlayStation Store |
| Separate PS3 Move Ape Escape experience | PlayStation Move motion controller and PlayStation Eye; optional compatible secondary navigation input | Confirm the exact game release, console, camera, and accessory requirements. Move documentation explains the system generally, but does not establish every regional release’s complete compatibility details. PlayStation Move FAQ |
| Original PlayStation analog play | Not established here | Check compatibility for the exact game and platform before relying on a modern controller or adapter. The Store listing applies to its PS4/PS5 conversion, not every original PlayStation setup. |
Why a compatible accessory may still not work in a game
Console-level accessory support is not the same as support in an individual game. Sony’s Move FAQ says implementation is up to each game’s developers: some titles may not implement full 1:1 motion control. Sony’s current support page lists Move controllers for PS3, PS4, and PS5, while warning that controls and calibration vary by game. For PS5, using a PlayStation Camera requires the Camera adapter. PlayStation Move controller support
Rank #3
- Advanced motion sensing and light tracking technology
- Easily accessible trigger and face buttons
- Immersive vibration feedback
- Rechargeable batteries provide long hours of play
For a used PS3 setup, identify the exact Ape Escape release and verify the camera and controller requirements for that release before purchasing. The official sources establish how Move works and identify an Ape Escape working title among announced Move games, but they do not provide a complete compatibility matrix for every regional PS3 release. Sony’s 2009 announcement
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Ergonomic, intuitive design thanks to a lightweight design, built-in vibration function and sphere that's tracked by the PlayStationCamera as you move, the controller acts and feels like an extension of your own hand, allowing you to intuitively interact with a game's virtual environment
Rank #4
- Charges two PlayStation Move Motion Controllers
- Compact design for storage with four non-slip feet
- AC Power adapter plugs into any wall outlet
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