Gaming has evolved beyond the fanfare of 90s gaming and the platforming madness we all endured. One such franchise that drove people insane was Rayman. Accordingly, when I was offered Rayman: 30th Anniversary Edition as a physical copy for Nintendo Switch, I couldn’t resist. I love physical gaming because I find it convenient and it appeals to my OCD-driven collecting mindset. Therefore, I was thrilled when this was available as a physical copy from major retailers.
This 30th anniversary edition is a celebration of the original 1995 Rayman. Subsequently, do not expect to play any other titles from the franchise. This may be disappointing for some, but I love playing this game. Furthermore, there are plenty of new elements, including extra levels, a documentary, archival material, and additional features.
This Metroidvania-lite platformer was developed by Digital Eclipse and published by Ubisoft. It is a single-player walk down memory lane that’ll break your spirit with its often-testing mechanics. However, it is extremely rewarding, and the modern features help struggling gamers to overcome the toughest of moments. Therefore, it should reduce rage quitting.
A recap of the Rayman: 30th Anniversary Edition story.
If you’ve played the original Rayman, you’ll have to excuse my story recap. However, this segment is for anyone who missed the first run of games. You play as Rayman, a colourful and fun-loving character who lives in the Glade of Dreams. Life is good until the wicked sorcerer Mr Dark steals the Great Protoon. This tool balances the world, and removing it causes the Electoons to scatter across the world. Accordingly, the hero must explore the world, gain new powers, and defeat the sorcerer.
The story is what is known as “Classic Rayman!” It is silly, absurd, and very OTT. However, it is interesting and works nicely for modern audiences. Sadly, if you are new to this genre, you will struggle with the challenging mechanics. Unlike many modern titles, this is reasonably harsh. The precision platforming and tough level design make this a brutal game to play.
5 consoles, 1 game.
Rayman: 30th Anniversary Edition offers versions of the game from 5 unique platforms. MS-DOS, PlayStation, Atari, GBC, and GBA versions can be played from beginning to end. I was familiar with the PS version, so I tested the others first. I was instantly struck with a wave of nostalgia as my mancave was filled with 90s vibes. The colours, graphics, level design, and scream-inducing gameplay were enough to make me smile.
You may be confused as to why they covered 5 versions of the same game. Well, I’m not sure, but it was interesting to see how each platform covered it. I think a collection of each Rayman game would have been better, but I was hooked regardless.
The modern improvements made this much more manageable. With rewind functionality, infinite lives, instant level unlocks, multiple save slots, and more, you don’t need to worry about the old-school stresses. Even though these elements made the action more approachable, it retains a challenging layer that pushes you through each level. Consequently, this isn’t a game for the faint of heart.
Platforming and Metroidvania.
Rayman: 30th Anniversary Edition offers some extremely tight 2D platforming. You must be careful as you traverse the world. Timing is everything, and mastering your skills and being patient are essential if you wish to progress. However, it is the Metroidvania-lite elements that keep you going. The progressive abilities of grappling fist, helicopter hair, and faster and stronger attacks open new opportunities. This gameplay choice has evolved over the years, but this was an original and challenging concept for the Rayman franchise.
What’s new?
It is tough to add elements without moving away from the base game. Thankfully, Rayman: 30th Anniversary Edition has done this perfectly with plenty of new levels, loads of never-before-seen items, a SNES prototype, and a lengthy interview to understand the thought process behind the whole series.
I’m not normally a fan of interviews or concept art, but I found it fascinating. A glimpse into the design process helped me to piece together elements that were otherwise misunderstood. Furthermore, the SNES prototype paints a picture of the early Rayman days.
Rayman: 30th Anniversary Edition has a distinct look.
The hand-drawn art style is distinct and instantly recognisable. The vibrant colours, larger-than-life characters, and amazing backdrops create a dramatic and high-energy world. The combination of cartoon animation, surrealism, and outlandish enemies makes this a distinct experience, unlike many of its 90s peers.
One of the key memories from the PlayStation version was the amazing audio. It was original, fun, and a joy to listen to. Sadly, this has been completely redone, and some of the energy has been lost. This is unfortunate and unnecessary. Although I like the new soundtrack, lovers of the original will feel betrayed, as the changes were not necessary. Had the original and new tracks been included, this would have been a suitable solution.
Clunky and dated controls.
When I mention dated and clunky in the same sentence, it is normally negative. However, it highlights the retro style. I love that the developers have stayed faithful to the original flow, and the game handles wonderfully, therefore. Yes, it could have been smoother, but it would have lost that authenticity.
Completing every game takes around 100 hours. However, I won’t be investing that much time. I happily tackled the PS version, and I tested the other platforms, but I won’t rush to finish every title. Instead, I’ll take my time and enjoy the added extras.
Rayman: 30th Anniversary Edition is better as a physical copy.
I applaud the publisher for bringing this out as a physical copy. Having a tangible game card makes my heart flutter, and I love that definitive clunk as you insert it into the Switch. However, if you prefer convenience, you can grab a digital copy here. I love this game as it is colourful and a genre/era-defining experience. Despite its brutal ways, I know fans of retro games will buy the physical version here!
(Full disclosure! A physical copy of the game was provided for an unbiased and free review!)
(The physical edition is available June 26th 2026, from all major retailers!)
