Perfect 10s - Rayman Origins

Perfect 10s

Rayman Origins

There have been many character comebacks and re-inventions throughout the history of gaming, some successful and some not. Metroid on Gamecube was brilliant, repeated attempts by Sonic have been somewhat less brilliant. Some are demanded but never arrive; F-Zero Wii U anyone? And then there are others…

No one demanded that Ubisoft (Montpellier), the curious French studio, make a new Rayman. When it was released no one expected it to be very good and when it turned out to be exceptional no one expected it to sell. Sadly the latter prediction was true and Rayman Origins remains an under played and under valued game by the wider gaming community. For shame! If you are new to Rayman Origins then prepare yourself to be overwhelmed with delight.

Upon first entering the game you are presented with an opening cut scene that serves a number of purposes. Firstly, it vaguely introduces the vague story that precedes the adventure - this sounds like a potential negative but so firmly is tongue in cheek that the game is, in fact, better for this vague-ness; there is a beautiful comedic value to it. Secondly the cut scene introduces the downright gorgeous art style of the game, which needs to be seen to be believed. Thirdly, as the cut scene progresses, it introduces the jazzy, funky and imaginative soundtrack that will literally have you dancing in your seat as you work your way through the 10 hours main game offered.

The game plays as beautifully as it looks and sounds with each level presenting new twists on old standards. Yes there is platforming; yes there is swimming underwater and yes you still primarily progress from left to right in traditional platform style but everything feels fresh and new. The game occasionally takes a step into left field for an explosive flying shoot ‘em up level and each world is punctuated with wild chases where you need to catch a hilarious looking treasure chest.  The pace is high and frenetic and the platforming action difficult but never unfair. One particular chase took me 20 attempts to complete but I was never angry; challenged? Yes. Cheated? No.

Add to this an outstanding co-op and the game takes on another dimension – party mode. Completing levels together is rewarding and the collection aspect of the game instantly becomes competitive. Also, giving another player a slap in the face feels solid and satisfying, which is important. Get some beers and friends around and play, dance and shout together. Just like the old days…

This is a game that is once played, never forgotten. It’s beautiful; the music will remain with you, tucked at the back of your mind until one day POW! You wake up humming like a musical fish (play the game and this will make sense to you)! It’s hilarious in parts, challenging but not impossible in others and has a great multiplayer. I can’t ask for anymore than that!

Rayman Origins: 10

Keep come backs awesome! Keep it OMG!