Rayman [PS1] Review & Longplay [1995]

Rayman (1995) – A Timeless PlayStation Classic Revisited

Introduction

In the mid-90s, a golden age for platformers, Ubisoft introduced the world to a limbless hero who would become one of gaming’s most iconic mascots. Rayman, released in 1995 for the PlayStation, was a groundbreaking 2D platformer that showcased stunning visuals, masterful level design, and an unforgettable soundtrack. It was a game that pushed the boundaries of what was possible on the PlayStation and cemented Ubisoft’s reputation as a major force in the industry.

This review takes a deep dive into the development, gameplay, music, story, and legacy of Rayman, exploring why it’s still considered a masterpiece of the era.


Development and Creation

Rayman was the brainchild of Michel Ancel, a young and ambitious developer at Ubisoft Montpellier. The game began development on the Atari ST before being shifted to the more powerful PlayStation hardware. Ancel’s vision for Rayman was simple: to create a platformer with a unique hero and a whimsical world. Rayman’s limbless design wasn’t just an artistic choice—it also made animation simpler and more fluid, a crucial factor in creating the game’s distinct visual style.

In a 1995 interview, Ancel explained:

“We wanted a character that could be both iconic and technically feasible. Rayman’s design gave us creative freedom and made him instantly recognizable.”
(Source: Ubisoft Archives)

The team at Ubisoft Montpellier poured their creativity into every aspect of the game, from its hand-drawn animations to its meticulously crafted levels. Over three years of development resulted in a game that was both visually stunning and mechanically innovative.


Story and Setting

The story of Rayman is simple yet charming. The game is set in a whimsical world where the balance is maintained by the Great Protoon, a powerful energy source. When the evil Mr. Dark steals the Protoon, the world descends into chaos, and the Electoons—creatures that once surrounded the Protoon—are captured and scattered across the land. It’s up to Rayman, the limbless hero, to free the Electoons, defeat Mr. Dark, and restore harmony to the world.

While the story isn’t overly complex, it provides a perfect backdrop for the game’s magical settings and colorful characters. Each level feels like a chapter in a fairy tale, from the lush greenery of the Dream Forest to the surreal musical landscapes of Band Land.


Visual Excellence

Rayman’s graphics were nothing short of revolutionary for the time. Featuring hand-drawn animations and vibrant backgrounds, the game pushed the PlayStation’s 2D capabilities to their limits. Each world is bursting with creativity and detail, making Rayman visually distinct from other platformers of the era. The use of parallax scrolling added depth to the environments, creating a sense of immersion that was rare in 1995.

“The hand-drawn visuals in Rayman are some of the most beautiful I’ve ever seen in a platformer. Even today, the game’s art style holds up brilliantly.”
— Sarah Martinez, member of the Retro Replay community

Rayman’s animations were also a standout feature. From his exaggerated punch animations to the way his hair spun like helicopter blades, every movement was fluid and full of personality.


Soundtrack and Audio Design

The soundtrack, composed by Rémi Gazel, is as memorable as the game’s visuals. Each world is accompanied by music that perfectly matches its tone. For example:

  • The Dream Forest features light, playful melodies that evoke a sense of wonder.
  • Band Land is filled with percussive rhythms and whimsical tunes that reflect its musical theme.
  • The darker, more challenging levels have dramatic compositions that heighten the tension.

The sound effects are equally charming, with Rayman’s jubilant “Yeah!” and the satisfying ping of his punches adding personality to every moment.


Gameplay Mechanics

At its core, Rayman is a 2D platformer that emphasizes precision, exploration, and gradually unlocked abilities. The gameplay is deceptively simple at first, but it becomes increasingly complex and challenging as you progress. Rayman’s abilities include:

  • Telescopic Fist: A long-range punch used to attack enemies and activate switches.
  • Helicopter Hair: Allows Rayman to glide over long distances.
  • Hanging and Running: Essential for navigating the game’s more intricate platforming sections.
  • Power Fist: An upgraded attack that deals more damage.

Each level is filled with collectibles, secret areas, and obstacles that require precise timing and skill to overcome. The difficulty curve is steep, especially in later stages, but this only adds to the game’s replay value.


Interesting Facts About Rayman

  1. Rayman was originally planned for the Atari Jaguar before being ported to the PlayStation, which proved to be a key decision for its success.
  2. Rayman’s world was inspired by Russian fairy tales that Michel Ancel read as a child.
  3. The PlayStation version of the game features exclusive content, including additional animations and smoother performance.
  4. Rayman was one of the best-selling PlayStation games of all time, with over 5 million copies sold.

Critical Reception and Legacy

At the time of its release, Rayman was praised for its visuals, music, and challenging gameplay. Gaming magazines called it one of the most beautiful games ever made.

“Rayman sets a new standard for platform gaming with its gorgeous graphics and pitch-perfect gameplay mechanics.”
— David Thompson, GamePro (1995)

Despite its difficulty, the game was embraced by players and critics alike. It spawned sequels, spin-offs, and eventually became a flagship franchise for Ubisoft.

Rayman Retrospective


Replay Value

Rayman’s replay value is significant thanks to its collectibles and hidden secrets. To fully complete the game, players must rescue all the Electoons in each level, which often requires revisiting stages after unlocking new abilities. The challenge of mastering the game’s mechanics and uncovering every secret ensures that it remains engaging long after the first playthrough.


Final Verdict

Rayman is a timeless classic that remains one of the most beloved platformers of all time. Its combination of jaw-dropping visuals, captivating music, and challenging gameplay makes it a must-play for fans of the genre. While its difficulty might deter some players, those who persevere will find a deeply rewarding experience.

Rating: 9/10

Rayman’s artistic excellence and tight gameplay make it a shining example of 2D platforming at its best.

For anyone who loves retro games or wants to experience the magic of the PlayStation era, Rayman is a journey worth taking. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or a newcomer, this limbless hero will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression.

About Retro Replay

Avatar photo
I love retro gaming.

Check Also

Legend of Zelda Third Quest Review & Longplay [SNES ROM hack] 2021

Have you ever heard of The Legend of Zelda: BS Edition? If not, you’re not …

Leave a Reply