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July 30, 2026Short & citedBlog
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Rayman

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

Updated July 30, 20261 min readCited sources

Rayman is a 1995 side-scrolling platform game that launched Ubisoft's long-running franchise. It introduced the limbless hero Rayman on a quest to stop Mr. Dark and restore balance.

What it is

Rayman is a 2D platform game developed by Ubi Pictures and published by Ubisoft in 1995. The player controls Rayman, a limbless hero who can punch and use his hair to hover, as he moves through themed worlds. The goal is to defeat Mr. Dark, recover the Great Protoon, and free captured Electoons.

Why it matters

Rayman was the first entry in a franchise that became one of Ubisoft's most recognisable series. Created by Michel Ancel, the game helped establish the character as a lasting icon in platform gaming. It later spawned multiple sequels and spin-offs across various platforms.

Key details

Gameplay involves side-scrolling levels, collecting items, and defeating bosses. Rayman gains new abilities over time, like ranged fist attacks and a helicopter spin using his hair. The story follows Rayman stopping Mr. Dark, who stole the Great Protoon, to restore harmony to the valley.

In short

  • Rayman is a 2D side-scrolling platformer from 1995.
  • Players control Rayman to defeat Mr. Dark and recover the Great Protoon.
  • It was the first game in the Rayman series, created by Michel Ancel.
  • Rayman became one of Ubisoft's most recognisable characters.

Quick questions

What is Rayman?
Rayman is a 1995 platform video game and the first entry in the Rayman series.
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 type of game is Rayman?
It is a 2D side-scrolling platform game.

Sources

  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