Rayman: 30th Anniversary Edition
Last updated: 2026-02-14
- Good collection of Rayman games
- Gameplay and graphics praised
- Rewind feature reduces frustration
- New soundtrack criticized heavily
- No option for original soundtrack
- Forced Ubisoft Connect requirement
Emotions
The primary cause of disappointment among players is the replacement of the original soundtrack with a new one, which many feel does not match the quality or nostalgia of the original. Additional issues include the lack of an option to switch back to the original soundtrack, various technical problems such as input lag, frame freezing, and the requirement of a Ubisoft account, which further exacerbate the frustration.
Players are frustrated mainly due to the forced installation of Ubisoft Connect and the removal of the original soundtrack. Other significant causes include technical issues such as game crashes, lack of cloud saves, and bugs preventing level selection, which detract from the overall gaming experience.
Nostalgia is primarily driven by players' personal memories and enjoyment of the original game. Many players appreciate the return of a classic game and the opportunity to relive childhood memories, although the absence of the original soundtrack somewhat diminishes this experience for some.
Players appreciate the new soundtrack remixes and the collection of the first Rayman games. The inclusion of new content, gameplay improvements, and accessibility features, as well as the excellent CRT emulator, contribute to a positive reception.
The disappointment stems from the missing original soundtrack and the inability to switch back to it. Players feel that the new soundtrack does not live up to the original, which significantly impacts their enjoyment of the game.
Verdict
Mostly negative
Summary
Positive 34% · Negative 66%. Score: 66 / 100
Verdict
Tinkering Required
Summary
The Rayman experience on Steam Deck is marred by several significant issues. The requirement to use Ubisoft Connect is a major point of contention, causing frustration and technical difficulties. Additionally, the lack of cloud saves and changes to the original soundtrack have negatively impacted user satisfaction. Technical issues such as corrupted videos and performance stutters further detract from the experience. Score: 55 / 100
Top points
- Ubisoft Connect Launcher Issues - High
- Lack of Cloud Saves - Medium
- Soundtrack Changes - Medium
- Technical Issues - Medium
Positives:
- The collection is praised for including different versions of the original Rayman games, providing a fresh experience and supporting the franchise.
- The game is noted for its fantastic gameplay, smooth performance, and amazing graphics. Players find it solid and enjoyable.
- The addition of a time rewind feature is highlighted as a significant improvement, reducing player frustration.
- The game's pricing is considered reasonable and fair, making it accessible to a wider audience.
- The emulation quality is praised for being very good, with excellent CRT emulation across all ports.
Negatives:
- The new soundtrack is widely criticized for being chaotic, unfitting, and inferior to the original. Players feel it does not match the dream-like atmosphere and mood of the original game.
- Players are upset that there is no option to toggle back to the original soundtrack. The original music has been entirely replaced without any choice to switch back.
- The game requires Ubisoft Connect, forcing players to install and link an account. This requirement is unwanted and causes issues for many players.
- Players note the omission of the Sega Saturn version, which is a disappointment for those who enjoyed that specific version of the game.
- The MS-DOS version of the game has technical problems, including lag and poor performance, which detract from the gameplay experience.
Gameplay:
- The game includes various versions across different platforms such as DOS, Atari Jaguar, GBC, PS1, and GBA. It also features all DOS expansions and a prototype of Rayman 1.
- The collection includes exclusive titles like Rayman's New Levels, Rayman By His Fans, and Rayman 60 Levels. It also features a gallery with interviews and extra material, providing additional content beyond the standard game.
- The game features enjoyable mechanics, including original mechanics like the Telescopic Fist and Helicopter Hair. The gameplay is described as great and retains the same mechanics and charm as the original.
- The game includes a rewind feature, allowing players to rewind time by 15 seconds. Additionally, there is a save anywhere feature, enhancing the gameplay experience by providing more control and convenience.
- The game offers various visual tweaks and options, including different filters and window adjustments. It also supports widescreen and has CRT filter options for each game, enhancing the visual experience.
Performance:
- Several players reported experiencing input lag and graphics issues while playing the game.
- Players have noted problems with audio skipping and pacing, which affects the overall gaming experience.
- Players on Steam Deck have reported minor stutters at 1080p, indicating some performance issues.
- Players have reported that save data gets erased when resetting the game, which is a significant issue.
- Players have lost all electoons after running out of continues, which is a frustrating experience.
Recommendations:
- Several reviews suggest playing Rayman Redemption, a fan-made version, as an alternative to the current release due to its improvements and lack of cost.
- Many players recommend playing the original PS1 or DOS versions of the game for a better experience, including access to the original soundtrack and avoiding issues with the current release.
- Despite the issues, many players still recommend the game, especially for fans of the Rayman series.
- Players are hoping for an update that includes the original soundtrack and other improvements.
- Some players suggest waiting for the physical release to avoid using Ubisoft Connect.
Miscellaneous:
- The PS1 version of the game is available as a ROM file, which can be played using an emulator such as DuckStation.
Similar games
Blend with other games
93%Croc Legend of the Gobbos
92%Dino Crisis 2
92%Sonic Generations Collection
92%Sonic Colors: Ultimate
92%Cave Story+
92%GEX Trilogy
92%Sonic the Hedgehog 4 - Episode I
92%Yooka-Replaylee
92%Bubsy in: The Purrfect Collection
92%LUNAR Remastered Collection
92%Shantae: Half-Genie Hero Ultimate Edition
92%R-Type Delta: HD Boosted