Rayman Legends, the original platformer released in 2013, has garnered a devoted following for its exceptional gameplay, earning a remarkable score of 90 in our review. This acclaim has prompted Ubisoft to embark on an ambitious project: a complete remake of the game. The new version, titled Rayman Legends Retold, transitions from its iconic 2D graphics to immersive 3D worlds, enhanced with additional features.
Revamping a Classic
During a recent session with Ubisoft, I had the opportunity to explore several levels of this reimagined title. While the shift to 3D may not inherently surpass the charm of 2D visuals—especially given the original’s unique art style—Retold emerges as a visually stunning experience. The development teams at Ubisoft Milan and Montpellier have undertaken a comprehensive recreation, akin to the beloved Spyro remakes crafted by Toys for Bob.
Production director Alessandro Arndt Mucchi describes this endeavor as a soft reboot for the franchise. He notes, “In terms of story and world building, we felt like there was room for tying everything together.” The team aims to create a more cohesive narrative, addressing the somewhat scattered elements of the original. This includes the introduction of voice acting, cutscenes, and overworld maps that connect the various levels.
Mucchi elaborates on the changes, stating, “If you remember, in the original Legends, you were jumping into paintings from an art gallery, so you didn’t have the feeling of being really in the Glade of Dreams. Now, the hubs from which you enter the portals leading to the levels are set in the actual world of Rayman.” This new approach certainly enhances the sense of immersion.
Despite experiencing some latency during a remote preview, Rayman Legends Retold retains the solid foundation of its predecessor, ensuring that the core platforming mechanics remain intact. The visual upgrade is not merely a superficial enhancement; it represents a vivid reimagining of the game. The developers have meticulously recreated and re-scored levels, introducing tweaks that elevate the overall experience.
New Features and Challenges
Retold will also introduce an entirely new sixth world, dubbed The Land of the Livid Dead, along with a fresh platforming power. Additionally, the game will feature reimagined musical levels that leverage the 3D perspective for delightful surprises. Players can expect exhilarating dragon-riding segments, adding another layer of excitement to the gameplay.
Having had the chance to experience one of these segments, I found them to be visually captivating and filled with spectacle. However, there is a concern regarding the health system in these levels, which relies on the Teensies. Each time players take damage, a Teensie is sent into the void. Given the potential for stray obstacles or projectiles, completionists may find themselves frustrated while attempting to achieve a no-hit run.
While these elements are still in development, there is optimism that Ubisoft will refine them before the game’s release. Rayman Legends Retold is set to launch on October 1, promising to deliver a nostalgic yet fresh experience for both new players and long-time fans alike.