when I was a child, I played Rayman revolution(PS2 version) alot. to my knowledge, this is the 1999 PC port of the N64 game of the same year but with higher graphics and frame rate.this game is the closest to the original N64 version that is currently the most accesible. the story and characters are simple by modern game standards but still very charming entertaining. the platforming is the highlight of the game, the controls are seamless considering how ancient this port is. the graphics while dated, still displays alot of artistic beauty which is a testament of the skills of the developers that they could squeeze alot of amazing visuals inspite of the hardware limitations. the game also incorporates gamplay elements found in third person shooters. the pacing is very consistent and well done not everything stands the test of time, the game doesnt support modern controllers(although a solution can be made by using softwares like antimicros which are available to download from microsoft store). the game also boots up weirdly on windows 11, while it rarely crashes the game, it can feel weird for 7 seconds until the game starts t runs normally. I am a bit mixed about the segments in the game that requires you to mount and drive vehicles, on one hand, they add alot of chaotic fun to the game and gives it variety but they can also be janky and frustarting to control. in conclusion, the Rayman 2 the great escape is one of the best 3D platformers of the 90s, outclassing most of it contemporaries in graphics,story, level design and controls. I recomment this game to anyone whether they are fans of rayman or not. I am grateful to ubisoft and GOG for allowing to experience this childhood memory one more time.
The gameplay takes alot of influence from the Genesis era sonic games but with a stronger emphesis on combat. you play as three selectable character each with their own unique abilities that allows different style of platforming and combat for each stage. the most successful aspect of the game is the level design, each level has it own personality and is varied enough to be fresh and facilitate endless replayability. the nostalgic 16-bit graphics is another high point for the game, taking the player back to similar games like the 90s castle of illusion starring mickey mouse and offcourse sonic the Hedgehog I do have a minor nitpicks with the game. Some boses, depending on your chosen character, can be quite brutal and the story,despite the decent voice acting, is generic. despite all that, these are minor flaws and don't negatively impact the experience. in conclusion, freedom planet is fun game I liked playing alot. its creative level design, charming characters, beatiful graphics and catchy soundtrack all offers an exilirating and an unforgettable experience. I am looking forward to the sequel and recommend playing the game whether you are a fan of high-speed platformers or not.
