Ape Escape Composer Soichi Terada Expresses Desire for Future Series Revival

Ape Escape Composer Soichi Terada Expresses Desire for Future Series Revival In the annals of PlayStation history, few franchises have maintained the nostalgic appeal and fan fervor of Ape Escape.

Developed by Sony Computer Entertainment and first launched in 1999 for the original PlayStation, the series quickly became a standout with its innovative dual-analog stick controls and mischievous cast of “Pipo Saru” monkeys.

Despite its popularity and several successful sequels, the franchise has seen no new mainline entry since PlayStation Move Ape Escape debuted in Japan in 2010.

Since then, the franchise's beloved mascot has found itself largely relegated to cameo appearances across other Sony properties, such as Astro Bot and the upcoming Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater. Recently, Time Extension secured an exclusive interview with Soichi Terada, the acclaimed composer behind the original Ape Escape soundtrack and several of its sequels.

Terada is well known within the PlayStation community, having also contributed music to titles like Ape Escape: Pumped & Primed, EyeToy Monkey Mania, and Ape Escape: On the Loose.

He was not involved in composing for Piposaru 2001 or Ape Escape 2—a decision attributed to the game's director opting for different composers, Luna Umegaki and Koji Hayama, while Terada focused on other projects, notably Sony's PS2 title Space Fishermen. Speaking to Time Extension over email, Terada conveyed a sense of hope mixed with realism regarding the series' future.

While acknowledging the significant challenges brought on by the dissolution of Sony's Japan Studio in 2021—a move that saw the company restructure and shift focus away from the kinds of quirky, character-driven games that defined Ape Escape—Terada said, 'It will be difficult because of the dissolution of Japan Studio several years ago.

But I do hope a group might someday bring a new Ape Escape to life.' He added that while he would relish the chance to compose the full soundtrack for a potential Ape Escape 4, he would be honored even to contribute a single track if the franchise were to make a return. The absence of a mainline sequel has done little to dampen fan enthusiasm for the franchise, which continues to earn recognition through digital re-releases on modern PlayStation platforms and nostalgic celebrations at gaming events.

Sales of the original Ape Escape and its sequels have surpassed millions of copies worldwide, establishing a legacy that endures even in the absence of new entries. For now, Ape Escape enthusiasts will have to be content with the memories of the series’ classic gameplay and distinctive soundtrack.

Nonetheless, Terada's statement serves as a beacon for those hoping the iconic Pipo Saru monkeys will someday return for a new adventure.

His continued passion for the series underscores the profound impact Ape Escape has had on both its creators and the gaming community—a legacy Sony Computer Entertainment and PlayStation fans would be wise to revisit when the opportunity arises.

PlayStation Ape Escape Soichi Terada Sony Computer Entertainment Japan Studio Astro Bot Metal Gear Solid Delta Space Fishermen