RaymanMan, times have changed since the last time I played "Rayman"; oh how I remember swaying back and forth to the beat, with my feet tapping on the floor. It's amazing now that I think about it, the one game that started it all; had become something bigger and more advanced over the years... sure, the newer game versions are fun and all; but believe me, if you want the real deal, then play the very first Rayman game ever.
This game is almost too good for words, and I have probably played it at least ten to thirty times over my lifespan of twenty years. One thing is certain, the moment that I got this game; I knew I was hooked. This game just brings so much creativity and silliness that it will leave you more and more amazed with each area you visit.
Graphics - 9/10
With amazing backgrounds resembling anything from jungle trees to even clouds with eyes, there is so much to see throughout this game. You have characters that look like they've been born on some other planet, you have bugs that just bug the heck out of you, and you even have music that is soothing to your ears, but deadly to your body. With all the strange and wondrous creations that Rayman has to offer, how could someone NOT enjoy this game? This game is especially adored and loved by children of the retro generation, and even for many of the adults; you just cannot help but have a smile on your face while playing the exciting adventures of Rayman.
Sound - 8/10
With a unique and rather outrageous soundtrack, you will have a wide range of ambient audio... from anything like Jazz to even music like Techno and Trance. Most of the audio composed on this game is designed to help you enjoy the level, and to get a wide feeling of it; with various sounds that make you feel like you're reading a comic book. Anything ranging from "BOINGS!" and "ZINGS!" to "BOOMS!" and "POPS!". A wide range of audio to keep the gamer listening, and you might just end up turning up your volume; it may not be "realistic", but it sure is more creative than anything I've seen today.
Addictiveness - 10/10
Oh man, let me tell you about how freaking attached I am to this game. Let's just say, I actually spend a WHOLE day (from sunrise to sunset) playing this NON-stop. I couldn't even keep my eyes off the screen, it was just so fascinating that everything else but this video game was no longer in existence. I wasn't hungry, I wasn't thirsty, and I sure didn't need to get up and use the bathroom. (Although after I was done, I was EXHAUSTED!) The level of randomness this game provides is sure to make you curious about where everything this, heck; you may even want to look around to see what other enemies there are.
Story - 8/10
With a simple, but elaborate story; Rayman will face the odds against the evil Mr. Dark (or whatever his name was, doesn't matter; Rayman was the only cool one anyways), a cruel and unbound being designed to bring terror to all the land. With Rayman having to avoid being exploded by needles or even attacked by flying audio notes, there is a wide range of problems ahead of you; but every second is worth it.
Depth - 5/10
To be honest, this game honestly didn't allow you a whole lot to do; besides completely goof around and enjoy the scenery. But nonetheless, this game was something that I just couldn't put down. With a wide variety of enemies, a bigger variety of areas, and an ever bigger variety of silliness; this game will keep you laughing and smiling as you progress from level to level.
Difficulty - 7/10
For many, this game is extremely easy; and then for some, this game is way too difficult to even bother with. But for me, it's about 50/50 I'd say; first off, you do have so much to watch out for... nearly everything is trying to hurt Rayman. But, on the other hand; you also have so much to achieve, and if I am correct... Rayman receives powers to help him along his way, such as a stronger punch or even a running dash attack. (Or maybe that was in second Rayman game).
Well either way, all I can say is; this game really made me feel uplifted and helped me smile more often than before. If it wasn't for this game, I probably wouldn't have even made my very first friend many years ago. So honestly, give it a shot; I am sure you will be amazed and all the challenges you encounter and all the things you just might unlock.
Graphics
9 Sound
8 Addictive
10 Depth
5 Story
6 Difficulty
7