An angry ape on screen as well as two in front of it. This can only go well. Simon and I play the bloody jazzy beat-’em-up «Ape Out». Our livestream starts at 1 p.m.
Aside from the music, «Ape Out» was made by a single man. It was developed by Gabe Cuzzillo. As might be derived from the title, the player takes on the role of an ape and tries to break out – ergo Ape Out.
From a top-down perspective you fight your way through procedurally generated levels. The only thing standing between you and your well-earned jungle holiday is a host of puny humans armed to the teeth with firepower. By simply tapping a trigger button you smash the faceless goons against the wall or even better, against each other. Thanks to its minimalist graphics, the red splatters of blood stand out beautifully. After a few seconds, the levels start to resemble a Jackson Pollock painting. With the other trigger, you can grab enemies and use them as meat shields. Trapped inside an 800-pound gorilla’s chokehold, enemies tend to get itchy trigger fingers, oftentimes mowing down their own allies. As your own pelt can’t take many bullets itself, quick reflexes are key. Happily, the duration between a death and a revive is only a few seconds. If you've ever played «Hotline Miami», you'll quickly get the hang of the ape’s movement.
Aside from the graphics, the score will make your ears prick up. Composer Matt Boch uses minimalist jazz, which peaks and fades in sync with your attacks.
As a child, I wasn't allowed to have any consoles. It was only with the arrival of the family's 486 PC that the magical world of gaming opened up to me. Today, I'm overcompensating accordingly. Only a lack of time and money prevents me from trying out every game there is and decorating my shelf with rare retro consoles.