PlayStation fans lose it as beloved PS1 franchise finally returns

I will always take some time to give Astro Bot some love. The celebration of PlayStation that is contained in that happy little game, is sublime.

Of course, now it’s out and everyone can get a good look at all the included characters and homages, social media and message boards are abuzz with nostalgia and excitement.

Astro Bot will clearly be a Game of the Year for many players in 2024

Over on Reddit, there’s a particular PS1 classic that is getting a lot of love after its appearance in Astro Bot - Ape Escape.

If you aren’t aware, Ape Escape was made by Japan Studio, which eventually formed into Team ASOBI, the makes of Astro Bot.

So, it’s no surprise that the game paid homage to the PS1 classic, then.

On Reddit, fans loved the inclusion, with some pining for a new entry in the Ape Escape franchise, which only ever made it to three releases.

Argenteneum said, “Please let Team Asobi make Ape Escape 4 it would be so friggin awesome if they did.”

While others simply celebrated the inclusion and saw the joy in a full level being dedicated to the game.

Another user puts it very simply, “Obviously GOTY now.”

The top reply comes from cefaluu who says, “These guys couldn't contain themselves from not making an Ape Escape minigame Hopefully they'll use it as a pitch for a new Ape Escape. After all, they are Japan Studio's legacy.”

Then there’s snappycg1996 who comments, “I only watched a few seconds, but man this warms my heart.”

There are a ridiculous number of PlayStation cameos in the game and each one is pure delight, especially if you grew up with a lot of these characters.

We’ve already written with joy about our love for Ape Escape, as well as Jumping Flash! and there are many more that will fill your heart with warmth.