For the main monkey-catching adventures, play Ape Escape, then Ape Escape 2, then Ape Escape 3. That release-order sequence is the clearest way to follow the numbered games; the Ape Escape Academy titles are optional minigame spin-offs, not prerequisites.
Recommended order for the main Ape Escape games
- Ape Escape (1999, PlayStation): Start with the original and its introduction to the series’ monkey-catching platform gameplay.
- Ape Escape 2 (PlayStation 2): Continue with the numbered sequel.
- Ape Escape 3 (PlayStation 2): Finish with the third numbered adventure.
This is a practical, spoiler-safe release order for the core games. It should not be read as a definitive chronology for every story or spin-off in the franchise; the available official listings do not establish a complete cross-franchise canon order.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
|
Ape Escape | $104.95 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
|
Ape Escape - Playstation (Renewed) | $56.44 | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |
|
Ape Escape 2 - PlayStation 2 | $99.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 4 |
|
Ape Escape On The Loose PSP (Renewed) | $32.51 | Buy on Amazon |
| 5 |
|
Ape Escape On The Loose PSP | $10.21 | Buy on Amazon |
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Are Ape Escape Academy and Ape Academy 2 required?
No. Ape Escape Academy and Ape Academy 2 are optional PSP-origin party and minigame spin-offs. You can play them separately without inserting them into the numbered adventure sequence.
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Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →- Ape Escape Academy: Sony describes it as a school built around 50 minigames. Sony’s US PlayStation Store listing identifies the title as a PSP game converted for PS4 and PS5.
- Ape Academy 2: Sony describes a collectible card game and more than 100 minigames, with 300 cards. Sony’s US PlayStation Store listing identifies it as a PSP-origin conversion for PS4 and PS5.
Those descriptions and store listings are specific to Sony’s US storefront. Availability, catalog membership, price, and language support can differ by region or change over time, so check the listing for your own account region and console before buying.
#1 Best Overall
- Requires Dual-Shock Analog Controller to play
Where to play the numbered games today
Modern digital options are not identical across the three games. The confirmed store details below are for the US PlayStation Store; they do not establish availability in every region.
| Game | US PlayStation Store information | Practical caveat |
|---|---|---|
| Ape Escape | Listed for PS4 and PS5 as a converted version of the 1999 PlayStation game. Sony says it includes up-rendering, rewind, quick save, and video filters. | Sony says the listing works with DualSense and DUALSHOCK 4 controllers, but original PlayStation console peripherals are not supported. Check the US listing for current details. |
| Ape Escape 2 | Listed as a PS4 conversion of the PS2 release, dated August 2, 2016. | Sony warns that it may exhibit errors or unexpected behavior on PS5 and that some PS4 features may be absent. PS2 peripherals are not supported. Check the US listing before purchasing. |
| Ape Escape 3 | A current official digital listing was not confirmed in the sources available for this guide. | That does not prove it is unavailable everywhere. Check your regional store and compatible physical options for your console. |
Choosing between original hardware and a converted version
If you have original PlayStation or PS2 hardware, the corresponding original release is one way to follow the sequence. On newer PlayStation systems, check the console compatibility and controller requirements for each individual store listing rather than assuming all three games have the same conversion or support.
Rank #2
- Catch 'Em All: Hunt down over 200 unique monkeys, each with their own distinct personalities, alert levels, and hilarious behaviors.
- Innovative Gadgets: Master a creative arsenal of tools—including the Stun Club, Time Net, Monkey Radar, Sky Flyer, and RC Car—to outsmart your primate foes.
- Time-Traveling Adventure: Explore massive, colorful levels spanning across different time periods, from the prehistoric dinosaur age to the Great Wall of China.
- Revolutionary Controls: Fully utilizes the DualShock controller's twin analog sticks for immersive 360-degree movement and gadget control (Dual-Shock Analog Controller required to play).
For Ape Escape on original PlayStation hardware, use a compatible DualShock controller: the original game was built around dual-analog controls. Confirm the exact console compatibility and the condition of any used controller or disc before buying. A modern converted version has its own stated controller support and does not support original PlayStation console peripherals.
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Quick Recap
Best Value
- Capture over 200 Monkeys
- Eight different worlds
- Over 20 levels
- Single-player and Multiplayer via Wireless connection
Rank #4
- Capture over 200 Monkeys
- Eight different worlds
- Over 20 levels
- Single-player and Multiplayer via Wireless connection
Rank #3
A simple plan for a first playthrough
- Look for Ape Escape on your local PlayStation Store if you want a digital option, and check the listing for your account region and console.
- Play Ape Escape 2 next. If you intend to use its PS4 conversion on PS5, read Sony’s compatibility warning first.
- Find a compatible digital or physical copy of Ape Escape 3; verify that it works with the hardware you own.
- Try either Academy game afterward if you want side content focused on minigames rather than another numbered platform adventure.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
