Finally, the last game was delivered today, and APE 2016 is officially put to rest.
It has been 7 consecutive years, with the last 4 being the most memorable. This years was the absolute best in my opinion - all steps leading to the show's first day were perfectly executed, thanks in large part to the venue itself in allowing a good amount of pre-staging time. The room, the lighting, the noise levels, the layouts, and the crowds were all just right. I couldn't be happier how things turned out, and I'm happy to hear that many have thought the same.
With that being said, It is sad to say that the APE family "hibernation" will be extended for some time. Many close to me know the lengths I take to bring to the public 3-days of an amazing arcade experience that (hopefully) they will never forget. The ordered layouts all are part of an initial plan, and in other to bring this planning to fruition, I have to ensure the desired titles get to the show. I've been doing this since 2013, and it is now gotten to the level that most might call insane. This year I transported 173 machines to the show. Doing all that physical work involves risks which are of concern, and the months spent to prepare the show overall has taken many liberties away from my personal life.
Simply put, myself and Ape wife have decided to not make plans for a 2017 show, and send out updates on future APE activity and shows thereafter. Knowing this, we gave you the best show possible this year; a more true arcade experience with as many games as in APE 2015, some cool different titles, an amazing pinball tournament by Dan Spolar and John I, and some very unique exhibitor badges.
Many thanks to the many, and you all know who you are. We are extremely grateful for all your support in creating the arcade of dreams.
Marcel & Dilayla
Ape Man and Ape Wife
