Many of the games in the PSone budget price range are showing their age, but Rayman's old-school 2-D technology ironically gives it an edge in terms of longevity: this is still one of the most beautiful, fun and imaginative side-scrolling platform jumping games ever released. You control the now-famous Rayman, a strange character with no arms or legs (although he has feet and hands) and a propeller on his head. Some may look at this as just another game where players run around and jump all the time, but the charming graphics and incredibly tight controls elevate Rayman into special territory. The difficulty level is just right at the beginning, letting players get a feel for Rayman's basic moves. Later levels require more advanced tricks and precise jumps, but the game is never unfair--something few 2-D side-scrolling games can claim. If you can get past the too-cute graphics and see them for the lush, imaginative visuals they are, the gameplay should keep you hooked for days. --T Byrl Baker Basically a direct port of the incredible Nintendo 64, PC and Dreamcast versions, the PlayStation's Rayman 2: The Great Escape has a lot going for it: great gameplay, amazing visuals and outstanding sound all combine to make this platform title something special. As the story goes, evil mechanical pirates, led by Razorbeard, have enslaved the inhabitants of Rayman's world. You must help Rayman collect four magical masks to wake up a god who will make those pirates walk the plank. Rayman 2 is a lot of fun, and as you make your way through the adventure, you must pick up fragments of energy called lums. Along the way, you will also be required to free cute characters that have been put in cages and enslaved by the evil pirates. There's plenty of eye candy, the upbeat music is a joy to listen to, and the voice work is one of the best parts of the game. The control scheme is very intuitive, which is essential for any platformer. It's very easy to pick up, but even the best gamer will still love mastering the environments. The game is challenging and addictive, and will appeal to gamers of all skill levels. --Todd Mowatt
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