Rayman Face-Off: Origins Versus Legends – Is the Sequel Truly Legendary?
If you are about to jump into the vibrant world of Rayman, you made a wise choice. Both Rayman Origins and Rayman Legends are acclaimed for their platforming magic. If you wonder which to play first, you’re in the right place. Let’s explore their features and see which suits you more.
A Tale of Two Raymans: Origins as a Springboard
First, let’s clarify. Rayman Legends is not random. It is the direct sequel to Rayman Origins. Origins sets the groundwork for Legends. It is the fifth main game, not a prequel. Ubisoft gives it this confusing title, not me.
Level Design and Content: From Origins to “Back to Origins”
Now, the levels! Rayman Origins serves up over 60 levels of 2D platforming bliss. Suitable for all ages and skill levels, it offers bouncing fun and chaos. But wait! Rayman Legends offers a world called “Back to Origins.” This is not just nostalgia; it features levels ripped from Rayman Origins. Think of it as a ‘greatest hits’ album with some cuts and no fluff.
Abilities: Gliding into the Future
Let’s discuss powers! In Rayman Origins, gliding is a skill you earn. You must rescue Holly Luya from a Darktoon to unlock this ability. It rewards your effort. But in Rayman Legends, gliding comes from the start. It streamlines your gameplay, allowing focus on new abilities. It’s like jumping on a bike without training wheels.
Character Roster: Princess Power and Unlockables
Who will you be? In Rayman Legends, character selection is vast, but they are just skins. Each character moves the same, punch the same. Equality in action! Legends has many Princess Heroes too: Barbara, Elysia, Aurora, Twila, Estelia, and Selena. You unlock them by saving Teensies, cute blue creatures.
In Rayman Origins, unlock new characters by collecting Electoons instead. These collectibles serve as currency for new avatars. It promotes exploration to expand your roster.
Plot Twists and Villainous Faces: More Than Just Rabbids (Thankfully)
Storytime! Despite its name, Rayman Origins is a sequel! It follows the original trilogy of Rayman games. Mr. Dark, Rayman’s foe, looms large. While he isn’t seen in Rayman Origins, his presence is felt like a puppet master in the shadows.
The villain who you will see is Ales Mansay, also known as The Magician. He started as a minor character and became the main antagonist in both games. Talk about climbing the ranks!
Game Length: How Long Will Limbless Fun Last?
Time alert! For those tracking gaming hours, Rayman Origins takes around 11 hours if you focus on main tasks. Completionists may take up to 21 and a half hours. Achievement hunters should expect 15-20 hours for all 36 achievements.
Rayman Legends has a shorter main story of about 10 hours. Don’t be fooled! Chasing all 50 achievements might consume 60-80 hours of time. It offers much more time investment for achievement lovers.
Critical Acclaim: Why Critics Went Bananas
Both games received critical acclaim for different reasons. Rayman Legends dazzled with creativity, humor, visuals, and superb sound design. Critics lauded it as a must-have during the Wii U launch. Check reviews like this one from Metacritic.
Rayman Origins also earned praise for its graphics, design, and humor. IGN’s Rayman Origins review discusses these highlights. In essence, both games are iconic in platforming.
Rayman: More Than Just Limbs… Or Lack Thereof
Ever wondered why Rayman is limbless? It isn’t fashion; it’s necessity. In the 90s, animating limbs was tough for developers. Hence, Rayman’s unique design emerged from technical constraints. Funny how limits can inspire creation, right? And that “O” on his hoodie? It might hold mystical powers.
If you find Rayman’s speech familiar, you aren’t alone. In Rayman Origins, characters speak Pig Latin! The team wanted voice acting but couldn’t decide on a language. So, Pig Latin became their funny solution.
Rayman’s World: Thing-a-ma-jigs and Conflicting Origins
What exactly is Rayman? His species is called Rayperson or informally “thing-a-ma-jigs.” Catchy name! “Limbless” also works but is direct. Now his backstory? It’s messy with conflicting accounts of where he’s from. Perhaps the mystery adds to his charm?
The Verdict?
Both Rayman Origins and Rayman Legends are amazing games worth playing. If you want a longer achievement hunt and refined mechanics, go for Rayman Legends. Plus, Princess Barbara awaits! However, Rayman Origins offers a delightful platforming journey with its unique charm too. Ultimately, you can’t go wrong with either. Why not play both?
If you want to know more about the character roster of Rayman Legends,
