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Rayman

Rayman is a 1995 side-scrolling platform video game developed by Ubi Pictures and published by Ubisoft.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Rayman is a 1995 side-scrolling platform video game developed by Ubi Pictures and published by Ubisoft. It introduced the titular character Rayman, a limbless hero who sets out to stop Mr. Dark and restore balance to his world. The game launched the long-running Rayman franchise.

Gameplay

Rayman is a side-scrolling platformer in which players move through themed worlds, defeat enemies, and rescue Electoons. Rayman gains abilities over the course of the game, including ranged attacks with his fists and the ability to use his hair like a helicopter.

Plot

The story follows Rayman as he tries to stop Mr. Dark and recover the Great Protoon, an object that maintains balance in the valley. Progression includes clearing levels and facing a boss at the end of each thematic world.

Development and release

Rayman was developed by Ubi Pictures and published by Ubisoft in 1995. It was first released on the PlayStation in North America on 7 September 1995, and later appeared on additional platforms.

Legacy

The game began the Rayman franchise, which expanded into multiple sequels and spin-offs across several platforms. Rayman also became one of Ubisoft's best-known characters.

Key facts

  • Rayman is a 2D side-scrolling platform game.
  • The player controls Rayman as he pursues Mr. Dark to recover the Great Protoon.
  • The game involves freeing captured Electoons and defeating bosses in themed worlds.
  • It was the first game in the Rayman series.
  • The series was created by Michel Ancel for Ubisoft.

Frequently asked questions

What is Rayman?
Rayman is a 1995 platform video game and the first entry in the Rayman series.
Who created Rayman?
The Rayman franchise was created by video game designer Michel Ancel for Ubisoft.
Who is the main character in Rayman?
The main character is Rayman, a limbless magical hero who uses his hands and hair for combat and movement.
What is the objective of the game?
The player must stop Mr. Dark, recover the Great Protoon, and free captured Electoons.
What type of game is Rayman?
It is a 2D side-scrolling platform game.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rayman_(video_game)
    Supports: Developer, publisher, genre, release date, plot, platformer gameplay
  2. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rayman
    Supports: Rayman franchise origin, creator Michel Ancel, series context, character description
  3. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rayman_(character)
    Supports: Rayman's appearance, abilities, and role as protagonist
  4. Wikipedia (French) — https://fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rayman_(jeu_vid%C3%A9o)
    Supports: Side-scrolling 2D platform classification and development/publishing details