Hey Man, I just wanted to say, I feel for you. A Kickstater Project is an Emotional Roller-coaster when you have a project, but the best thing is that you learn from your mistakes, be honest with yourself and keep trying.
I would like to See Ultra Ape with a goal closer to $4k, $5k.
Then focus on Push Goals, if you get to $8k then you print with USPCC or something, that's what The Grind did and I think it worked for them.
Also, Post on Forums, Related to Monkeys, Comics, Board Games, anything you think is even remotely related to your deck. Besides that, try to make real friends, one at a time on youtube, facebook and twitter.
Then, if you really want to just get the cards made, make your Pledge Bracktes as Low as Possible, but offer better deals for people that spend more money. Your going to need those 3 or 4 guys that put up $1k, so make them a good deal. Think of other ways to make the Art a Reward, Your Joker is my favorite card BTW, just my 2 cents. Also, Study every thing about the Kickstarter Projects that made it. See what mistakes they made and what right moves they had in common. Half of it is the art, but the other Half is Business. Think of other things you can get made that go with the cards, but keep it related to the art on the cards.
Last, I will say, I am personally not that into Apes, which you mentioned might be a problem, But, if you like them, others will too. Just take your time, be flexable and work with the people. Your already on the right path, best of luck, E-mail us anytime, even if you just want to chat. HiddenMirrorsMagic@gmail.com You can do it
Don't let it get to you.