PlayStation gamer uncovers 'fatal flaw' in design of new console release

One PlayStation fan has seemingly uncovered a “fatal flaw” in the design of the new LEGO PlayStation, which is available to order now.

The LEGO PlayStation is a wonderfully nostalgic collectable; it’s more than just a recreation of PlayStation’s original console, also featuring hidden references to hit PS1 games.

Once built, the disc cover of the LEGO PlayStation lifts to reveal two dioramas celebrating both Gran Turismo and Ape Escape.

Neither title really requires an introduction. Gran Turismo kicked off the acclaimed racing franchise in 1997, while Ape Escape cemented its place as an all-time classic in 1999 - and was, in fact, recently referenced as a VIP themed level in Astro Bot.

As Reddit user Novel_Mongoose_5651 points out though, Ape Escape’s inclusion doesn’t precisely fit with the overall design of the LEGO PlayStation.

Ape Escape didn’t utilise the LEGO PlayStation’s included controller

“Fatal flaw with PlayStation design,” they began. “It really bugs me that they included Ape Escape as the diorama Easter egg, a game that was designed specifically around the DualShock controller (twin analog sticks).”

They continued, “Yet PlayStation approved the inclusion of the launch D-pad controller. Goes to show that those running PlayStation / making these brand affiliate deals do not know the legacy of the platform they work for / promote.”

Sony

Indeed, the original Ape Escape did indeed require Dual Analog sticks and clearly, the OG controller featured within this set doesn’t.

Whether this makes Ape Escape’s inclusion a “fatal flaw” is up to you.

Ape Escape was launched on the PlayStation 1, so it’s not entirely out of place - and the dioramas are hidden within the console rather than included as insertable cartridges.

If that was the case, then I suppose Ape Escape would be symbolically unplayable. It’s an interesting little conundrum that’s started quite the debate.

“How is this a fatal flaw? This is how the console was originally released,” replied chrisknife.

“To be honest, they could use hundreds of games and f**ked up using Ape Escape. OP is not wrong,” added t4c_23.

“The biggest flaw I had with it is that they didn’t give it a nice 1994 piece count,” said 2DecadesTooLate.

User IndependentVirus1746 remarked, “This is almost standard with LEGO these days. Pretty much every IP they release a set of has some lack of detail or straight up some faulty features.”

Personally, I don’t think this “flaw” is going to put that many people off. This is still an awesome set, although it would’ve been nice to see a Dual Analog controller included too.

The LEGO PlayStation is a 1911-piece build, recommended for ages 18 and above.

It’s not a cheap set, setting you back £139.99 / $179.99.

Orders were set to be accompanied by a free Astro Bot LEGO set although it looks as if availability for that may have already been depleted.

The LEGO Astro Bot is available to order individually, though following major demand from PlayStation fans.

What I’d like to know is when we’re getting another Astro Bot game - and maybe even another Ape Escape one for that matter.