Apewar is a multiplayer first-person and third-person arena shooter on PC where players control armed monkeys in fast-paced online battles. The game blends casual action with tactical elements as monkeys fight over objectives using firearms, vehicles, and team coordination. The Apewar - Capuchin Monkey DLC adds a new playable character to the roster, unlocking the Capuchin Monkey for permanent use across matches. This small, intelligent primate fits the game's humorous premise by trading natural tool use for a firearm in combat.
Gameplay
Matches take place on several maps where players move as monkeys, aiming and firing weapons while managing movement, reloading, and positioning. First-person and third-person perspectives are available, allowing players to switch for better awareness or precision. Vehicles appear in designated map zones, including helicopters and tanks that players can enter and control to gain mobility or firepower advantages. AI bots can fill team slots to keep matches populated even with smaller player groups. Scoring rewards kills, headshots, and match victories, with recent balance adjustments increasing points for strong individual performance. Spawn protection and respawn timers help maintain flow, while an AFK detection system removes inactive players after two minutes. A new tutorial system guides newcomers through core controls and objectives.
Game Modes
Free for All pits every monkey against each other in a free-for-all scramble for the highest score. Team Deathmatch divides players into opposing sides focused on eliminating the enemy team. Grab Banana requires teams to seize and transport bananas to a scoring area under heavy fire, turning the objective into a high-risk carry through contested zones. Territory Domination appears on the Monkeyistan map, where teams compete to capture and hold points. Matches support variable player counts, including options up to 16 versus 16, and rooms can include bots for consistent action. Recent updates improved matchmaking to pair players of similar skill levels when possible.
Character Options and Progression
Players build monkey teams with different loadouts and can level up to unlock additional weapons. The Capuchin Monkey DLC expands choices by adding this resourceful primate as a selectable character suited for online battles. In-game economy elements let players earn bananas through performance, which tie into purchases and unlocks. A cosmetic system rewards playtime with random hat drops every hour, featuring multiple rarities that players can equip, collect, or trade on the Steam Community Market.
Current State and Updates
Apewar remains in Early Access with active development. The latest beta update introduced a full tutorial, server stability fixes, performance optimizations especially on Monkeyistan, and gameplay tweaks such as reduced vehicle collision damage and adjusted bomb effects. Ongoing support includes balance changes and new content like character DLCs. The game runs on Windows, Mac, and Linux with Steam Deck playability noted.
Is It Worth Playing?
Reviews sit in the Very Positive range with over 8,000 ratings reflecting strong approval for the lighthearted monkey theme and accessible multiplayer format. At a low price point, the game suits players seeking casual arena shooters with team modes, vehicle combat, and bot support for flexible sessions. Those who enjoy humorous takes on tactical shooters or short online matches with friends will find consistent entertainment. The Capuchin Monkey DLC provides an easy way to expand character variety without altering core rules. Low current player counts mean some matches rely on bots or quick matchmaking, which works well for the game's scale but may not suit those wanting large populated lobbies at all hours. Overall it delivers straightforward fun for the right audience focused on monkey mayhem rather than serious military simulation.
