Rayman

• Release Date: 1995
• Genre: Action
• Style: Side-Scrolling Platform
• Similar Games: Earthworm Jim 2 (Sega Genesis), Earthworm Jim 2 (Sega Saturn), Sonic Jam (Sega Saturn), Earthworm Jim 2 (Super Nintendo Entertainment System), Earthworm Jim 2 (IBM PC Compatible), Earthworm Jim 2 (PlayStation), Sonic Jam (game.com)

Game Description

Rayman is some sort of creature without arms or legs, but it does have hands and feet. As Rayman, players will need to return the Great Protoon, which has been stolen by Mister Dark, to their land. This item is one that keeps peace throughout the land and without it evil creatures will take over the land. Also, creatures called Electoons used to exist around the Great Protoon but are now scattered throughout the land.

Players will travel through 60 levels covering six different environments while searching for the Great Protoon and rescuing Electoons. As Rayman progresses through the game a fairy named Betilla will make appearances and grant Rayman new powers. Some of the powers that can be gained include anything from the ability to throw your hand to a glow-in-the-dark grappling fist.

Roots & Influences

Rayman is influenced by many of the games that feature company mascots. Those include the Mario Bros. games and the Sonic the Hedgehog series. Similarities can also be found in Wonder Dog and Aero the Acrobat.

Review: Overall

The Rayman character is perfect for little children, though this game is easily difficult enough for adults. There are 60 levels for Rayman to conquer and none of them are easy, not even the first few levels. What makes the first few levels difficult is trying to get used to the controls. Sometimes the difficulty can be quite annoying, but luckily, if you get by a clown holding a camera and let him take your picture, you can save your progress in a level.

On the world map there are also points where you can save after completing a level, it doesn't take much space in you system memory either. One problem that does exist is that when you've completed all of the levels in the game, you still haven't beaten Mister Dark. To get to this final level you must find each of the six cages of Electoons in every one of the 60 levels. So if you can't find one cage, completing the game is impossible.

One feature in the game that will help you accomplish your goals is that the further you get in the game, the more abilities you gain. For example, Rayman will learn to hang on to an edge, perform a helicopter move, and use his glove to beat enemies.

The 2D cartoon graphics of Rayman are entertaining. Rayman and all of his friends, enemies, and the bosses, as well as the scenery, are beautifully drawn and show some sense of humor. It may all seem a bit childish at first, but it is quite amusing.

Music featured in Rayman matches each of the levels appropriately. The sound effects are great too. When, for example, you walk on a drum in "music land," you hear the hollow sound of a drum every step you take.

This game is a great example of a game that is better on the Saturn than the PlayStation. The reason being is that Sega's Saturn can handle 2D graphics better than Sony's machine.

Review: Enjoyment

Good, 2D platform fun. Possibly too difficult though.

Review: Graphics

Colorful, fluid animations.

Review: Sound

Fitting music and matching sound effects.

Review: Replay Value

Provides a good challenge and is long enough to keep you busy.

Review: Documentation

Covers all aspects of the game.

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