i was looking into fixing a few graphical issues (tearing etc) and found this - its mentions a mega patch, has anyone experience with it?

Hello, I've checked out this patch, and now it has become a stand-alone, named Rayman Optimum, it includes all the levels ever released for Rayman 1 (at least the packages listed by wikipedia).

Although, as this a full release I don't know if I can post links here ?

Hmm... IDK whether or not to post a link.

Probably because it is quite sure that it's not a legal release. It includes levels from other game versions for free and that's never a got sign.
But you can easily find the link with google if you're interested ;)
Edit: Indeed the link to the link is already posted here :D

Another thing I love of gog is their message policy, they remove only obvious spam. After all people are innocent until proven guilty. Not vice-versa as everyone seems to think lately (unless they are true criminals, in that case they know).

Besides, better material. More chance to buy the game from gog!

I would certainly recommend it above the GOG release. Here, it is the first result at https://lmddgtfy.net/?q=rayman%20optimum.

Thanks; I've never heard of this version. Pretty sure I've played every Rayman level made (PC, PS1 and GBA version), but I'll still check this out! At least I have the gog version, so it shouldn't really be illegal

I didn't realise that Rayman Optimum would be a full game installer. I figured it'd be like CorsixTH where you needed a copy of the game to install.

Considering the issues I've had with the GOG release, I'm perfectly happy with using this as an effective replacement. I own a legal copy and that clears my conscience.

I like the idea behind rayman optimum, but I was wondering if there was a say to turn off the graphics filter? I think it makes the game look muddy and the textures lose all their sharpness.

If you check the Configuration program you can change the settings to what you wish. I believe one of the pre-programmed options is to play the game as close to the original as possible with zero filtering.

After playing hours with the Rayman Optimum version I went back to the GOG version and unfortunately I have to say that the GOG version is not nearly as good. It begins with the wrong music, continues with the missing intro, languages and VSync. The Rayman Optimum version does even look better than the original and it is possible to play it in Full HD resolution (though it won't look like a Full HD program). Since the Rayman Optimum version is not official I don't think that there is much hope that GOG will some day add this version but it really is much much much better than the GOG version which I bought first and will not download anymore.

From what I think I understand about the situation, GOG's hands may be somewhat tied on what they can do and which version they can use. Optimum is a combination of various Rayman 1 releases into a single unofficial one, including as many user-friendly configurations as possible, GOG were likely given Forever as their only option, including all of its limitations. Apparently even the previously released Gold edition is better than Forever in terms of actual base-game completion; supposedly Ubisoft added creator videos to Forever that forced them to sacrifice some of the music, which is really silly.

I have to add that the "Megapatch" is not just a collection of many (if not all) Rayman 1 titles - it is much more. All languages are included, the intro is included and there are graphic possibilities which are more that just a new user configuration. I'd recommend every Rayman 1 fan (who officially bought Rayman) to try it, It is THAT good. I know that the legal status of such a standalone "patch" is at least unclear so it is more of an ethical question if you like to test it. And no, I have absolutely nothing to do with this patch. I was just unhappy with the GoG version and if they don't say anything if links are posted where you can get the original music tracks (which as you said not included in Rayman Forever) I thought I could post this too. Again: I don't want anybody to pirate this game an I will not post a link but it is just great.

edit: Nevermind.