Rayman 2: The Great Escape

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{{Infobox video game

| title = Rayman 2: The Great Escape

| image = Rayman 2.jpg

| caption = PC cover art

| developer = Ubi Pictures
Ubi Studios (GBC)

| publisher = Ubi Soft

| series = Rayman

| engine = RenderWare (PS2)

| platforms = {{Unbulleted list|Nintendo 64|Windows|Dreamcast|PlayStation|PlayStation 2|Game Boy Color{{efn|The Game Boy Color version is a different game, and is a 2D side scroller with gameplay similar to the original Rayman}}|Nintendo DS|iOS|Nintendo 3DS}}

| released = {{Collapsible list|title={{nobold|29 October 1999}}|Nintendo 64{{Video game release|EU|29 October 1999|NA|9 November 1999|AU|22 November 1999{{Cite web |date=19 November 1999 |title=Archives November 1999: 19/11/99 |url=http://www.gamesmarket.com.au/infoarchives.cfm?contentarchives=5&cfid=2036461&cftoken=2599097 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20030724004832/http://www.gamesmarket.com.au/infoarchives.cfm?contentarchives=5&cfid=2036461&cftoken=2599097 |archive-date=24 July 2003 |access-date=17 April 2024 |website=Games Market}}}}Windows{{Video game release|EU|29 October 1999|NA|4 November 1999}}Dreamcast{{Video game release|EU|16 March 2000|NA|21 March 2000|JP|23 March 2000|AU|7 April 2000{{cite web |url=http://www.futuregamez.net/outnow/dc.html |title=Dreamcast Reviews & Game List |work=FutureGamez |access-date=18 November 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20010731231717/http://www.futuregamez.net/outnow/dc.html |archive-date=31 July 2001 |url-status=dead }}}}PlayStation{{Video game release|EU|8 September 2000|NA|16 September 2000|AUS|2000}}PlayStation 2{{Video game release|EU|22 December 2000|NA|30 January 2001}}Game Boy Color{{Video game release|EU|14 December 2001|NA|1 January 2002}}Nintendo DS{{Video game release|EU|11 March 2005|NA|28 March 2005|AUS|March 2005}}iOS{{Video game release|WW|1 March 2010}}Nintendo 3DS{{Video game release|EU|25 March 2011|NA|27 March 2011|AUS|31 March 2011}}}}

| genre = Platform, action-adventure

| modes = Single-player

| director = Michel Ancel

| producer = Arnaud Carrette (DC)
Pauline Jacquey (N64)

| designer = Christophe Tribaut (DC)
Jean-Christophe Guyot
Serge Hascoët

| programmer = Yann Le Tensorer (N64, PC)
Fabien Bole-Feysot (DC)

| artist = {{Unbulleted list|Michel Ancel|Florent Sacre|Paul Tumelaire}}

| writer = David Neiss
Michel Ancel

| composer = Eric Chevalier
Daniel Masson (N64)

}}

Rayman 2: The Great Escape is a 1999 platform game developed by Ubi Pictures and published by Ubi Soft for the Nintendo 64, Windows, Dreamcast and PlayStation. The game centers on the titular character Rayman, who is tasked with saving the fantastical land of the Fairy Glade from an army of robotic pirates led by Admiral Razorbeard.

An enhanced port titled Rayman Revolution{{Efn|In North America, the port was titled "Rayman 2: Revolution".}} was developed by Ubi Soft Annecy for the PlayStation 2. An alternative remake known as Rayman 2 Forever was developed by Ubi Studios for the Game Boy Color. Rayman 2 was critically acclaimed for its gameplay, graphics and accessibility.

Gameplay

File:Ratman 2.jpg

Rayman 2: The Great Escape is a 3D platformer which is played from a third-person perspective and allows the player control over the camera,{{Cite journal |last=Goavec |first=R |year=1999 |title=Rayman 2 |journal=Génération 4 |issue=127 |pages=38–39}} though in some situations this control is limited to only certain angles. At several points in the game the player loses control during cutscenes, which typically show dialogue between characters.

By collecting lums (small bodies, or shards of magical energy), the player unlocks more information about the game world and its back story, which can be read by standing still and pressing a specific button for some time. Some back story is also obtained through (optional) instructions from Murfy, a "flying encyclopaedia" who provides explanations on all kinds of gameplay elements.

In contrast to its predecessor, which was a 2D platformer, Rayman 2 is a 3D platformer. The player navigates through a mostly linear sequence of levels, fighting enemy Robo-Pirates, solving puzzles and collecting lums. Collecting enough lums gains the player access to new parts of the world. Part of the lums are hidden in small cages, in which other freedom fighters or Teensies are imprisoned, and can be obtained by breaking the cages.

Rayman starts the game with minimal abilities, and he can gain more abilities as the game progresses. The main weapon available in the game is Rayman's fist, with which energy orbs can be shot. Eventually, the orbs can be charged before shooting them, making them more powerful. Rayman can also enter a strafing stance which allows him to easily aim orbs whilst avoiding enemy attacks. Rayman later gains the ability to swing over large gaps using Purple Lums. Rayman is also able to use his helicopter hair to slow his descent while jumping, with some segments later in the game allowing him to fly with his hair. There are also various items Rayman can use throughout the game, such as explosive barrels he can throw, giant plums he can ride on to carry him across dangerous surfaces, and rockets he must ride on to access new areas.

In addition to the main, story-based level sequence, there are also several levels in which the player can gain bonuses in a time trial. Additionally, by collecting all lums and breaking all cages in a level, the player unlocks a bonus level in which one of Globox's children races against a robot pirate. When the player controlling the child wins the race, Rayman gains health or a powerup.

Plot

File: Rayman 2 screenshot 1.jpg

The Glade of Dreams is invaded by the Robo-Pirates, led by Admiral Razorbeard, with the intent to conquer and enslave. The crisis prompts volunteers, including Rayman and his friend Globox, to form resistance groups. Rayman and Globox confront an army of robots. Rayman battles valiantly with energy spheres, while Globox, despite his fear, aids by creating rain to rust the robots. However, a telepathic message from Ly the Fairy reveals devastating news: the pirates have destroyed the Primordial Core, scattering the world's energy, and have captured most of the warriors. This loss strips Rayman of his powers, leading to his capture. As Razorbeard gloats, Rayman urges Globox to escape and find Ly, defiantly vowing to resist.

Imprisoned aboard the pirate ship Buccaneer, Rayman despairs over his lost powers until Globox delivers a Silver Lum from Ly, restoring his abilities. Rayman escapes through a pipe, but a collision with Globox sends them plummeting. Landing in the Woods of Light and separated from Globox, Rayman learns from Globox’s children that Ly has been captured. The four Teensie Kings inform him that Ly is held in the Fairy Glade’s Robo-Pirate fortress. Rayman rescues Ly, who reveals that Polokus, the world’s spirit, can restore his full powers if Rayman collects four magical masks. After Ly transfers her remaining power to him and vanishes, Rayman frees Ssssam the Swamp Snake, who reveals Globox’s recapture.

Rayman’s quest for the masks begins at the Sanctuary of Water and Ice, where he defeats the guardian Axel to claim the first mask. In Polokus’s realm, the spirit promises to awaken and aid Rayman once all masks are gathered. In the Menhir Hills, Rayman finds the warrior Clark, weakened from swallowing a Robo-Pirate. To heal him, Rayman enters the Cave of Bad Dreams, surviving pursuit by the guardian Jano. Rejecting a treasure of gold, Rayman chooses the Elixir of Life, curing Clark. In the Canopy, Rayman frees Globox, who provides another Silver Lum. Carmen the whale guides Rayman through Whale Bay to the Sanctuary of Stone and Fire, where the guardian Umber helps him secure the second mask. Rayman defeats the guardian Foutch in the Sanctuary of Rock and Lava for the third mask. In the Iron Mountains, Globox’s wife Uglette reveals Globox’s re-imprisonment on the Buccaneer and their children’s enslavement in the mines. Rayman rescues the children, one of whom found the fourth mask. With all masks united, Polokus awakens, destroying the pirates’ land fortresses but leaving the Buccaneer to Rayman.

Aboard the ship, Razorbeard acquires the Grolgoth, a formidable mecha, for a final showdown. Rayman frees the prisoners and confronts Razorbeard in the crow’s nest, where Globox is held hostage. The battle intensifies as the deck collapses, plunging Rayman toward a lava-filled furnace. Ly’s timely Silver Lum saves him, and she urges him to defeat Razorbeard. In an airborne clash, Rayman knocks the Grolgoth into the lava. Razorbeard escapes in a small craft, triggering the Grolgoth’s self-destruct, obliterating the Buccaneer. Rayman’s friends, mourning his apparent death after finding only his foot, are overjoyed when he emerges, injured but alive, on a crutch.

Development

Rayman 2 was originally conceptualised as a sidescrolling 2D platformer, like the first game.{{cite magazine|date=June 1996|title=Rayman 2|url=https://archive.org/details/Next-Generation-1996-06/page/n101/mode/2up|magazine=Next Generation|publisher=Imagine Media|issue=18|page=100}}{{cite magazine|title=Coming Soon: Rayman 2|magazine=Sega Saturn Magazine|publisher=EMAP|date=August 1996|issue=10|page=15|url=https://archive.org/details/Official_Sega_Saturn_Magazine_010|access-date=11 April 2017}} Development on the prototype began in early 1996 with a team of six people{{cite video|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l6AgSHT8Ve0|title=Devs Play S2E09 · "Rayman 2: The Great Escape" with Michel Ancel, Tim Schafer, and Lee Petty|publisher=Double Fine|website=YouTube|date=26 January 2016|access-date=12 February 2022}} and a budget of 10 million francs.{{cite episode|title=War Games|series=Capital|network=M6|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=53P6eIZg5ro|time=11:50|lang=French|access-date=15 February 2022}} It was slated to be released on the PlayStation, Sega Saturn, and Windows in the fourth quarter of that year. The prototype of Rayman 2 featured some usage of prerendered bitmaps of 3D computer models, differing from the hand-drawn presentation of its predecessor.{{cite magazine|title=Rayman 2 prototype|magazine=Mega Force|date=April 1996|issue=9|page=28|language=fr}} The PC was the original lead platform, but it was switched to the Nintendo 64 mid-development, necessitating reducing the quality of the textures.{{cite magazine|url=https://retrocdn.net/images/1/10/Edge_UK_076.pdf#page=46|title=Rayman 2|magazine=Edge|publisher=Future plc|location=United Kingdom|issue=76|date=October 1999|pages=46–49|access-date=2 February 2024}} The Dreamcast version uses the original high-quality textures. The art design was inspired by the works of Hayao Miyazaki and Tex Avery, and was made to give the game's world a sense of mythology.{{cite web|url=https://www.ign.com/articles/1999/07/07/behind-rayman-2|title=Behind Rayman 2|website=IGN|date=6 July 1999|access-date=12 February 2022}}

Release

Rayman 2: The Great Escape was first released for the Nintendo 64 in Europe on 29 October 1999, and in North America on 9 November 1999.{{Cite news |date=23 October 1999 |title=PC and games |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/752426452 |access-date=26 October 2024 |work=The Daily Telegraph |location=United Kingdom |pages=164 |quote=Now the eagerly awaited Rayman 2: The Great Escape is out to buy on PC and Nintendo 64 from 29 October (£29.99) and is set to become the hottest game this Christmas.}}{{cite news |date=16 October 1999 |title=HOO-RAY! Loads of Rayman 2 prizes to be won |pages=69 |work=Daily Mirror |location=United Kingdom |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/790314251/?terms=%22Rayman%202%22&match=1 |access-date=8 December 2023 |quote=Grab your joypads and get set for some alien-busting platform action with Rayman 2: The Great Escape. It's out for the N64 on October 29 and to celebrate we've joined forces with Ubisoft to hand out some cool prizes.}}{{cite web |title=PlayStation Rayman 2 Delayed |url=https://www.gamespot.com/articles/playstation-rayman-2-delayed/1100-2448699/ |work=GameSpot |date=20 October 1999 |access-date=3 October 2023 }} The Nintendo 64 version is compatible with the Expansion Pak, which allows the game to be played in a higher resolution. Unlike other versions of the game, the soundtrack is played in a MIDI format.

The Windows version was released in Europe on 29 October 1999, and in North America on 4 November 1999.{{cite web |date=4 November 1999 |title=News Briefs |website=IGN |url=http://pc.ign.com/articles/071/071866p1.html |access-date=3 January 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20020221014924/http://pc.ign.com/articles/071/071866p1.html |archive-date=21 February 2002 |url-status=dead }} Compared to the Nintendo 64 version, it features more detailed graphics and a 22 kHz soundtrack.

The Dreamcast version was released in Europe on 16 March 2000, followed by North America on 21 March 2000 and Japan on 23 March 2000.{{cite web |url=http://www.micromania.fr/cgi-micromania/tri3.pl?criteria=DREAMCAS;status=1 |title=Derniers jeux sortis sur Dreamcast |work=Micromania |language=French |access-date=18 November 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20000608053132/http://www.micromania.fr/cgi-micromania/tri3.pl?criteria=DREAMCAS;status=1|archive-date=8 June 2000 |url-status=dead }}{{cite web |url=http://www.sega.com/games/dreamcast/post_dreamcastgame.jhtml?PRODID=191 |title=Rayman 2: The Great Escape |publisher=Sega|access-date=18 November 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20031221132822/http://www.sega.com/games/dreamcast/post_dreamcastgame.jhtml?PRODID=191 |archive-date=21 December 2003 |url-status=dead }}{{cite web |url=http://sega.jp/dc/000306/|title=レイマン海賊船からの脱出！ |publisher=Sega |language=Japanese |access-date=18 November 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140805192412/http://sega.jp/dc/000306/ |archive-date=5 August 2014 |url-status=dead }} It is similar to the Windows version, but certain environments and the final battle have been modified and bonus mini-games were added.

The PlayStation version, developed by Ubi Soft Shanghai, was released in Europe on 8 September 2000, and in North America on 16 September 2000.{{Cite web |url=http://psx.ign.com/releases.html |title=PSX Releases |work=IGN |access-date=18 November 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20000815063008/http://psx.ign.com/releases.html |archive-date=15 August 2000 |url-status=dead }} The graphics were downgraded, the game has a new layout within its levels (some hidden areas having been removed), the world map is constructed slightly differently and the game contains a bonus prototype of an early 2D version of the game.

The PlayStation 2 version, titled Rayman Revolution and developed by Ubi Soft Annecy, was a launch title for the console's European release. Rayman Revolution features improved graphics over the Windows and Dreamcast versions, as well as new and modified levels.

The Nintendo DS version, titled Rayman DS released in Europe as a launch title for the handheld on 11 March 2005, followed by North America on 28 March 2005. It is a port of the Nintendo 64 version.

The iOS version was released on 1 March 2010, and the Nintendo 3DS version, titled Rayman 3D, released as a launch title for the handheld in 2011.{{cite web |url=https://www.pocketgamer.com/rayman-2-the-great-escape/rayman-2-the-great-escape-iphone-hits-the-app-store-3-99/ |last=Hearn |first=Rob |title=Rayman 2: The Great Escape iPhone hits the App Store, £3.99 |work=Pocket Gamer |date=1 March 2010 |access-date=19 November 2024 }} They are ports of the Dreamcast version, albeit with the bonus mini-games removed.

Reception

{{Video game reviews

| GR = {{Collapsible list

|SDC: 93%{{cite web |url=https://www.gamerankings.com/dreamcast/250615-rayman-2-the-great-escape/index.html |title=Rayman 2: The Great Escape for Dreamcast |website=GameRankings |publisher=CBS Interactive |access-date=19 September 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191205200601/https://www.gamerankings.com/dreamcast/250615-rayman-2-the-great-escape/index.html|archive-date=5 December 2019}}

|N64: 89%{{cite web |url=https://www.gamerankings.com/n64/198423-rayman-2-the-great-escape/index.html |title=Rayman 2: The Great Escape for Nintendo 64 |website=GameRankings |publisher=CBS Interactive |access-date=19 September 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191205214848/https://www.gamerankings.com/n64/198423-rayman-2-the-great-escape/index.html|archive-date=5 December 2019}}

| DS: 59%{{cite web |url=http://www.gamerankings.com/ds/924893-rayman-ds/index.html |title=Rayman DS for DS |website=GameRankings |publisher=CBS Interactive |access-date=19 September 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191205214036/http://www.gamerankings.com/ds/924893-rayman-ds/index.html|archive-date=5 December 2019}}

| PC: 91%{{cite web |url=https://www.gamerankings.com/pc/198422-rayman-2-the-great-escape/index.html |title=Rayman 2: The Great Escape for PC |website=GameRankings |publisher=CBS Interactive |access-date=19 September 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191205213152/https://www.gamerankings.com/pc/198422-rayman-2-the-great-escape/index.html|archive-date=5 December 2019}}

| PS: 87%{{cite web |url=http://www.gamerankings.com/ps/198421-rayman-2-the-great-escape/index.html |title=Rayman 2: The Great Escape for PlayStation |website=GameRankings |publisher=CBS Interactive |access-date=19 September 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191205215211/http://www.gamerankings.com/ps/198421-rayman-2-the-great-escape/index.html|archive-date=5 December 2019}}

| PS2: 85%{{cite web |url=http://www.gamerankings.com/ps2/446433-rayman-2-revolution/index.html |title=Rayman 2 Revolution for PlayStation 2 |website=GameRankings |publisher=CBS Interactive |access-date=19 September 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191205214657/http://www.gamerankings.com/ps2/446433-rayman-2-revolution/index.html|archive-date=5 December 2019}}

}}

| MC = {{Collapsible list

| 3DS: 61/100{{cite web |url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/rayman-2-the-great-escape/critic-reviews/?platform=3ds |title=Rayman 3D for 3DS Reviews |website=Metacritic |publisher=CBS Interactive |access-date=19 September 2018 |archive-date=23 January 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190123153937/https://www.metacritic.com/game/3ds/rayman-3d |url-status=live }}

| iOS: 53/100{{cite web |url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/rayman-2-the-great-escape/critic-reviews/?platform=ios-iphoneipad |title=Rayman 2: The Great Escape for iPhone/iPad Reviews |website=Metacritic |publisher=CBS Interactive |access-date=19 September 2018 |archive-date=24 September 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180924092413/https://www.metacritic.com/game/ios/rayman-2-the-great-escape |url-status=live }}

| N64: 90/100{{cite web |url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/rayman-2-the-great-escape/critic-reviews/?platform=nintendo-64 |title=Rayman 2: The Great Escape for Nintendo 64 Reviews |website=Metacritic |publisher=CBS Interactive |access-date=19 September 2018 |archive-date=18 October 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181018011617/https://www.metacritic.com/game/nintendo-64/rayman-2-the-great-escape |url-status=live }}

| DS: 58/100{{cite web |url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/rayman-2-the-great-escape/critic-reviews/?platform=ds |title=Rayman DS for DS Reviews |website=Metacritic |publisher=CBS Interactive |access-date=19 September 2018 |archive-date=29 September 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180929114048/https://www.metacritic.com/game/ds/rayman-ds |url-status=live }}

| PS2: 90/100{{cite web |url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/rayman-2-the-great-escape/critic-reviews/?platform=playstation-2 |title=Rayman 2 Revolution for PlayStation 2 Reviews |website=Metacritic |publisher=CBS Interactive |access-date=19 September 2018 |archive-date=16 October 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181016153913/https://www.metacritic.com/game/playstation-2/rayman-2-revolution |url-status=live }}

}}

| CGM = {{rating|4.5|5}}{{cite web |last1=Lackey |first1=Alan |title=Rayman 2 PC review |url=http://www.cdmag.com/articles/024/137/rayman2_review.html |website=CGM |publisher=TheGlobe.com |access-date=17 May 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20030228120006/http://www.cdmag.com/articles/024/137/rayman2_review.html |archive-date=28 February 2003 |location=New York City |date=1 December 1999}}

| CVG = {{rating|4|5}}{{cite magazine|last=Scott|first=Dean|date=December 1999|title=Rayman 2: The Great Escape|magazine=Computer and Video Games|issue=217|page=111}}

| EGM = (SDC) 9/10{{cite magazine |url=https://archive.org/details/electronic-gaming-monthly-issue-130-may-2000/page/144/mode/2up |title=Review Crew: Rayman 2: The Great Escape |last1=Boyer |first1=Crispin |last2=Johnston |first2=Chris |last3=Smith |first3=Shawn |last4=Davison |first4=John |magazine=Electronic Gaming Monthly |publisher=Ziff Davis |date=May 2000 |issue=130 |page=145}}
(N64) 9/10{{cite magazine |url=https://archive.org/details/electronic-gaming-monthly-issue-124-november-1999/page/245/mode/2up |title=Review Crew: Rayman 2: The Great Escape |last2=Boyer |first2=Crispin |last1=Johnston |first1=Chris |last4=Smith |first4=Shawn |last3=Davison |first3=John |magazine=Electronic Gaming Monthly |publisher=Ziff Davis |date=November 1999 |issue=124 |page=246}}
(PS2) 9/10{{cite magazine |last1=Campbell |first1=Jonathan |title=Rayman 2 Revolution review (PS2) |url=http://www.zdnet.com/egm/stories/main/0,11589,2675813,00.html |magazine=Electronic Gaming Monthly |publisher=Ziff Davis |access-date=17 May 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20010309180943/http://www.zdnet.com/egm/stories/main/0,11589,2675813,00.html |archive-date=9 March 2001 |location=New York City |date=6 February 2001}}

| EuroG = 9/10{{cite web |title=Rayman 2 review (PS1) |url=https://www.eurogamer.net/articles/r_rayman2_psx |website=Eurogamer |publisher=Gamer Network |access-date=17 May 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191002003544/https://www.eurogamer.net/articles/r_rayman2_psx |archive-date=2 October 2019 |location=Brighton |language=en |date=3 October 2000}}

| GI = (SDC) 9/10{{cite magazine |title=Rayman 2 – Dreamcast review |url=https://www.gameinformer.com/reviews/review_detail.cfm?ITEM_ID=4321 |magazine=Game Informer |publisher=GameStop |access-date=17 May 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20001205165800/http://www.gameinformer.com/reviews/review_detail.cfm?ITEM_ID=4321 |archive-date=5 December 2000 |location=Grapevine |language=en |url-status=live |date=27 April 2000}}
3DS: 7.5/10{{cite magazine |last1=Reiner |first1=Andrew |title=Rayman 3D review |url=https://www.gameinformer.com/games/rayman_3ds/b/3ds/archive/2011/03/25/revisiting-the-great-escape-and-revolution.aspx |magazine=Game Informer |publisher=GameStop |access-date=17 May 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190823161123/https://www.gameinformer.com/games/rayman_3ds/b/3ds/archive/2011/03/25/revisiting-the-great-escape-and-revolution.aspx |archive-date=23 August 2019 |location=Grapevine |language=en |date=25 March 2011}}
(N64) 7.75/10{{cite magazine |title=Rayman 2 – N64 review |url=https://www.gameinformer.com/reviews/review_detail.cfm?ITEM_ID=3303 |magazine=Game Informer |publisher=GameStop |access-date=17 May 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20001008113327/http://gameinformer.com/reviews/review_detail.cfm?ITEM_ID=3303|archive-date=8 October 2000 |location=Grapevine |language=en |url-status=live |date=25 October 1999}}

| GameFan = (PS) 96%{{cite web |last1=Mears |first1=Rick |title=Rayman 2 review (PS2) |url=http://www.gamefan.com/repre.asp?g=1627&t=r |website=GameFan |publisher=Metropolis Media |access-date=17 May 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20000615185448/http://www.gamefan.com/repre.asp?g=1627&t=r |archive-date=15 June 2000 |date=28 April 2000}}
(N64) 9/10{{cite web |last1=Buchanan |first1=Levi |title=Review for Rayman: The Great Escape (N64) |url=http://gamefan.com:80/repre.asp?g=682&t=r |website=GameFan |publisher=Metropolis Media |access-date=17 May 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20000607194140/http://gamefan.com/repre.asp?g=682&t=r |archive-date=7 June 2000 |date=7 June 2000 |url-status=live }}

| GamePro = (N64) {{rating|5|5}}{{cite magazine |title=Rayman 2 review for N64 |url=http://www.gamepro.com/nintendo/n64/games/reviews/3923.shtml |magazine=GamePro |publisher=IDG Entertainment |access-date=17 May 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20050310045711/http://www.gamepro.com/nintendo/n64/games/reviews/3923.shtml |archive-date=10 March 2005 |language=en |date=1 January 2000}}
(PS2) {{rating|5|5}}{{cite magazine |title=Rayman 2 Revolution review for PS2 |url=http://www.gamepro.com/sony/ps2/games/reviews/10926.shtml |magazine=GamePro |publisher=IDG Entertainment |access-date=17 May 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20040219030449/http://www.gamepro.com/sony/ps2/games/reviews/10926.shtml |archive-date=19 February 2004 |date=31 January 2001}}

| GameRev = (3DS) {{rating|3|7}}{{cite web |last1=Sloan |first1=Kevin |title=Rayman 3D review |url=http://www.gamerevolution.com/review/3ds/rayman-3d |website=GameRevolution |publisher=AtomicOnline |access-date=17 May 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140421095612/http://www.gamerevolution.com/review/3ds/rayman-3d |archive-date=21 April 2014 |date=13 April 2011}}
(PS) {{rating|4.5|5}}{{cite web |title=Everybody Loves Rayman Review |url=https://www.gamerevolution.com/review/32233-rayman-2-review |website=GameRevolution |publisher=AtomicOnline |access-date=17 May 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200517143356/https://www.gamerevolution.com/review/32233-rayman-2-review |archive-date=17 May 2020 |date=4 March 2000}}

| GSpot = {{Collapsible list

| (SDC) 9.4/10{{cite web |last1=Stahl |first1=Ben |title=Rayman 2: The Great Escape review (Dreamcast) |url=http://www.gamespot.com/reviews/rayman-2-the-great-escape-review/1900-2540494/ |website=GameSpot |publisher=CBS Interactive |access-date=17 May 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150722013906/http://www.gamespot.com/reviews/rayman-2-the-great-escape-review/1900-2540494/ |archive-date=22 July 2015 |location=San Francisco |date=28 March 2000}}

| (3DS) 7/10{{cite web |last1=Johnson |first1=Jeremiah |title=Rayman 3D Review |url=https://www.gamespot.com/reviews/rayman-3d-review/1900-6306954/ |website=GameSpot |publisher=CBS Interactive |access-date=17 May 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190517052012/https://www.gamespot.com/reviews/rayman-3d-review/1900-6306954/ |archive-date=17 May 2019 |date=4 April 2011}}

| (DS) 6/10{{cite web |last1=Provo |first1=Frank |title=Rayman DS review |url=http://www.gamespot.com/ds/action/raymands/review.html |website=GameSpot |publisher=CBS Interactive |access-date=17 May 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20050413044245/http://www.gamespot.com/ds/action/raymands/review.html |archive-date=13 April 2005 |location=San Francisco |date=28 March 2005}}

| (PC) 9.3/10{{cite web |last1=Wolpow |first1=Eric |title=Rayman 2: The Great Escape PC review |url=http://www.gamespot.com/pc/action/rayman2thegreatescape/review.html |website=GameSpot |publisher=CBS Interactive |access-date=17 May 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20030406113458/http://www.gamespot.com/pc/action/rayman2thegreatescape/review.html |archive-date=6 April 2003 |location=San Francisco |date=2 December 1999}}

| (PS) 8.2/10{{cite web |last1=Stahl |first1=Ben |title=Rayman 2 review for PlayStation |url=http://www.gamespot.com/ps/action/rayman2/review.html |website=GameSpot |publisher=CBS Interactive |access-date=17 May 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20040905123936/http://www.gamespot.com/ps/action/rayman2/review.html |archive-date=5 September 2004 |language=en |date=8 March 2000}}

| (PS2) 9.1/10{{cite web |last1=Davis |first1=Ryan |title=Rayman 2 Revolution review |url=http://www.gamespot.com/ps2/action/rayman2revolution/review.html |website=GameSpot |publisher=CBS Interactive |access-date=17 May 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20030402021209/http://www.gamespot.com/ps2/action/rayman2revolution/review.html |archive-date=2 April 2003 |location=San Francisco |date=8 February 2001}}

}}

| GRadar = 7/10{{cite web |last1=Toewell |first1=Justin |title=Rayman 3D review |url=https://www.gamesradar.com/rayman-3d-review/ |website=GamesRadar |publisher=Future plc |access-date=17 May 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191002065543/https://www.gamesradar.com/rayman-3d-review/ |archive-date=2 October 2019 |location=Bath |language=en |date=25 March 2011}}

| IGN = {{Collapsible list

| (SDC) 9.6/10{{cite web |last1=Justice |first1=Brandon |title=Rayman 2: The Great Escape Dreamcast review |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2000/03/22/rayman-2-the-great-escape-4 |website=IGN |publisher=Ziff Davis |access-date=17 May 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190505084625/https://www.ign.com/articles/2000/03/22/rayman-2-the-great-escape-4 |archive-date=5 May 2019 |location=New York City |language=en |date=22 March 2000}}

| (iOS) 5.5/10{{cite web |title=Rayman 2: The Great Escape iPhone review |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2010/03/01/rayman-2-the-great-escape-iphone-review |website=IGN |publisher=Ziff Davis |access-date=17 May 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190517051950/https://www.ign.com/articles/2010/03/01/rayman-2-the-great-escape-iphone-review |archive-date=17 May 2019 |location=New York City |language=en |date=1 March 2010}}

| (3DS) 5.5/10{{cite web |last1=Goldstein |first1=Hilary |title=Rayman 3D review |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2011/03/27/rayman-3d-review |website=IGN |publisher=Ziff Davis |access-date=17 May 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190508064651/https://www.ign.com/articles/2011/03/27/rayman-3d-review |archive-date=8 May 2019 |location=New York City |language=en |date=27 March 2011}}

| (DS) 6/10{{cite web |last1=Harris` |first1=Craig |title=Rayman DS – IGN |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2005/03/23/rayman-ds |website=IGN |publisher=Ziff Davis |access-date=17 May 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190514234307/https://www.ign.com/articles/2005/03/23/rayman-ds |archive-date=14 May 2019 |location=New York City |language=en |date=22 March 2005}}

| (PC) 9.2/10{{cite web |last1=Lopez |first1=Vincent |title=Rayman 2: The Great Escape PC review |url=http://pc.ign.com/articles/160/160732p1.html |website=IGN |publisher=Ziff Davis |access-date=17 May 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20020623100121/http://pc.ign.com/articles/160/160732p1.html |archive-date=23 June 2002 |location=New York City |language=en |url-status=dead |date=18 November 1999}}

| (PS) 9.2/10{{cite web |last1=Zdyrko |first1=David |title=Rayman 2: The Great Escape review |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2000/09/14/rayman-2-the-great-escape |website=IGN |publisher=Ziff Davis |access-date=17 May 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160707112119/https://www.ign.com/articles/2000/09/14/rayman-2-the-great-escape |archive-date=7 July 2016 |location=New York City |language=en |date=14 September 2000}}

| (PS2) 8.8/10{{cite web |last1=Zdyrko |first1=David |title=Rayman 2: Revolution review |url=http://ps2.ign.com/articles/164/164858p1.html |website=IGN |publisher=Ziff Davis |access-date=17 May 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190506102150/https://www.ign.com/articles/2001/02/06/rayman-2-revolution-2|date=5 February 2001|archive-date=6 May 2019 |location=New York City |language=en}}

}}

| JXV = 9.5/10{{cite web |last1=Garnier |first1=Philippe |title=Test de Rayman 2: The Great Escape sur Dreamcast |url=http://www.jeuxvideo.com/articles/0000/00000571_test.htm |website=Jeuxvideo.com |publisher=Webedia |access-date=17 May 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190718082256/http://www.jeuxvideo.com/articles/0000/00000571_test.htm |archive-date=18 July 2019 |location=Paris |language=fr |date=23 March 2000}}

| NGen = {{rating|4|5}}{{cite journal |last1=Lundrigan |first1=Jeff |title=Rayman 2 review (N64) |journal=Next Generation |date=January 2000 |issue=61 |page=94 |url=https://archive.org/details/NextGen61Jan2000/page/n95/mode/2up/search/rayman+2 |access-date=17 May 2020 |publisher=Future plc |location=Bath}}

| NLife = 4/10{{cite web |last1=Ryder |first1=Michael |title=Review: Rayman DS |url=http://www.nintendolife.com/reviews/2009/09/rayman_ds_ds |website=NintendoLife |publisher=Gamer Network|access-date=17 May 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190514234307/http://www.nintendolife.com/reviews/2009/09/rayman_ds_ds |archive-date=14 May 2019 |date=22 September 2009}}

| NWR = (DS) 6/10{{cite web |title=Sega GameJam Storm Expo – Event |url=http://www.planetgamecube.com/reviews.cfm?action=profile&id=612 |publisher=Nintendo World Report |access-date=17 May 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20051102035525/http://www.planetgamecube.com/reviews.cfm?action=profile&id=612 |archive-date=2 November 2005 |date=26 April 2005}}
(3DS) 5/10{{cite web |last1=Jones |first1=James |title=Rayman 3D review |url=http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/review/26103 |publisher=Nintendo World Report |access-date=17 May 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190508064647/http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/review/26103/rayman-3d-nintendo-3ds |archive-date=8 May 2019 |date=19 April 2011}}

| N64 = 73%{{cite journal |last1=Green |first1=Mark |title=Rayman 2, Hip, hip, 'ray for Rayman? Not quite. |journal=N64 Magazine |date=December 1999 |issue=35 |pages=64–66 |publisher=Future plc}}

| OPM = {{rating|5|5}}{{cite web |last1=Steinman |first1=Gary |title=Rayman 2 Revoluiotn review |url=http://www.zdnet.com/opm/stories/main/0,11891,2667583,00.html |publisher=Official U.S. PlayStation Magazine |access-date=17 May 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20010220230139/http://www.zdnet.com/opm/stories/main/0,11891,2667583,00.html |archive-date=20 February 2001 |location=New York City |date=16 January 2001}}

| PG = (iOS) {{rating|3|5}}{{cite web |last1=Erickson |first1=Tracy |title=Rayman 2: The Great Escape |url=http://www.pocketgamer.co.uk/r/iPhone/Rayman+2%3A+The+Great+Escape/review.asp?c=18792 |website=Pocket Gamer UK |publisher=Future plc |access-date=17 May 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191030014546/https://www.pocketgamer.com/articles/018792/rayman-2-the-great-escape/ |archive-date=30 October 2019 |location=Bath |language=en |date=1 March 2010}}
(3DS) {{rating|3|5}}{{cite web |last1=Rose |first1=Mike |title=Rayman 3D review |url=http://www.pocketgamer.co.uk/r/3DS/Rayman+3D/review.asp?c=28620 |website=Pocket Gamer UK |publisher=Future plc |access-date=17 May 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190508064651/https://www.pocketgamer.com/articles/028620/rayman-3d/ |archive-date=8 May 2019 |location=Bath |language=en |date=25 March 2011}}

| TA = {{rating|3|5}}{{cite web |last1=Hodapp |first1=Eli |title='Rayman 2: The Great Escape' – Another Console Port from Gameloft |url=http://toucharcade.com/2010/03/01/rayman-2-the-great-escape-another-console-port-from-gameloft/ |website=TouchArcade |publisher=MacRumors |access-date=17 May 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191031203323/https://toucharcade.com/2010/03/01/rayman-2-the-great-escape-another-console-port-from-gameloft/ |archive-date=31 October 2019 |location=Richmond |date=1 March 2010}}

| VG = 7/10{{cite web |last1=Smith |first1=Jamin |title=Rayman 3D review |url=https://www.videogamer.com/3ds/rayman_3d/review.html |website=VideoGamer |publisher=Resero Network |access-date=17 May 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110824164438/http://www.videogamer.com/3ds/rayman_3d/review.html |archive-date=24 August 2011 |date=25 March 2011}}

| award1Pub = Game Developers Choice Awards

| award1 = Excellence in Level Design (2001){{cite web |title=1st Annual Game Developers Choice Awards (2001) |url=https://www.gamechoiceawards.com/archive/gdca_1st.html |publisher=Game Choice Awards |access-date=17 May 2020 |archive-date=4 May 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200504011100/https://www.gamechoiceawards.com/archive/gdca_1st.html |url-status=live }}

}}

Rayman 2 received critical acclaim upon release, with the Windows version receiving a silver sales award from Entertainment and Leisure Software Publishers Association.{{cite web |title=ELSPA Sales Awards: Silver |url=http://www.elspa.com:80/?i=3942 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090221154943/http://www.elspa.com/?i=3942 |archive-date=21 February 2009 |work=Entertainment and Leisure Software Publishers Association}}

Jeff Lundrigan for Next Generation reviewed the Nintendo 64 version of the game for and stated that "with its cute character designs and slick, polished gameplay, Rayman 2 is one of the few titles that can honestly claim to have something to offer any gamer of any age or skill."{{cite magazine|last=Lundrigan|first=Jeff|title=Finals|magazine=Next Generation|volume=3|issue=1|publisher=Imagine Media|date=January 2000|page=94}} IGN writer Brandon Justice praised it as "the most impressive feat of game design and execution the platforming genre has ever seen" and recommend players to forget about Super Mario 64, Banjo-Kazooie and Crash Bandicoot.{{cite web |url=http://dreamcast.ign.com/articles/162/162005p1.html |access-date=20 June 2015 |title=Rayman 2: The Great Escape Review |work=IGN |first=Brandon |last=Justice |date=22 March 2000 |archive-date=20 March 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120320003435/http://dreamcast.ign.com/articles/162/162005p1.html |url-status=live }}

Many writers of Game Informer praised the game as a "gorgeous" game in which pays homage to Banjo-Kazooie and calling it best Nintendo 64 game because of it camera and control system in which one of the writers Jay wrote how there times when the game looked brilliantly such as "helicoptering down a long chute or skiing behind a sea monster." Stuart Clarke of the Sydney Morning Herald appreciated that the graphics are "lush and beautiful" which was helped by the Nintendo 64 Expansion Pak or a "good" PC 3-D accelerator card.{{Cite web |last=Clarkie |first=Stuart |date=November 13, 1999 |title=Head boy |url=http://www.smh.com.au/icon/9911/13/games1.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20000815212322/http://www.smh.com.au/icon/9911/13/games1.html |archive-date=August 15, 2000 |access-date=March 19, 2024 |website=The Sydney Morning Herald}}

He also reviewed the Dreamcast version and stated that "just go out and buy it. You won't be disappointed."{{cite magazine |last=Lundrigan |first=Jeff |date=May 2000 |title=Finals |magazine=Next Generation |publisher=Imagine Media |page=97 |volume=3 |issue=5}} The reception for Rayman DS was mixed or average, IGN writer Craig Harris citing graphical flaws and camera problems. While it did support controlling the game via the touchpad, this was regarded as both "sloppy and awkward,"{{cite web |url=http://ign.com/articles/2005/03/23/rayman-ds |access-date=20 June 2015 |work=IGN |title=Rayman DS Review |author=Craig Harris |date=23 March 2005 |archive-date=9 July 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150709174327/http://www.ign.com/articles/2005/03/23/rayman-ds |url-status=live }} GameSpot writer Provo Frank criticize that it has made numerous graphical issues that often interfere with gameplay.{{cite web |url=http://www.gamespot.com/reviews/rayman-ds-review/1900-6121182/ |work=GameSpot |access-date=20 June 2015 |title=Rayman DS Review |author=Frank Provo |archive-date=18 April 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160418072333/http://www.gamespot.com/reviews/rayman-ds-review/1900-6121182/ |url-status=live }}

Rayman 2 is occasionally included in "greatest video games" lists by video game publications, with IGN calling it "a demonstration of what the modern platform game could be -- smart, fast and challenging."{{cite web |title=IGN's Top 100 Games |url=http://top100.ign.com/2005/061-070.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141009135800/http://top100.ign.com/2005/061-070.html |archive-date=9 October 2014 |access-date=20 June 2015 |work=IGN}}{{cite web |author=Ryan Davis |title=The Greatest Games Of All Time |url=http://www.gamespot.com/gamespot/features/all/greatestgames/p-24.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121109063119/http://www.gamespot.com/gamespot/features/all/greatestgames/p-24.html |archive-date=9 November 2012 |access-date=20 June 2015 |work=GameSpot}} It was ranked number six on Nintendo Life's 2024 list of the best Nintendo 64 platformers which writers described it as "a very strong 3D platformer from a time when you couldn't move for them" and they indicates that the Rayman series make "the jump from 2D in a colourful adventure" that have everything the player could want from the platformer genre.{{Cite web |last1=Lane |first1=Gavin |last2=Norman |first2=Jim |last3=Hagues |first3=Alana |date=2024-02-02 |title=Best Nintendo 64 Platformers - Every N64 3D Platformer, Ranked By You |url=https://www.nintendolife.com/guides/best-nintendo-64-platformers-every-n64-3d-platformer-ranked-by-you |access-date=2024-03-16 |website=Nintendo Life |language=en-GB}}

= Accolades =

Rayman 2 was nominated for personal computer action game of the year award by GameSpot in 1999.{{cite web |author=Staff |title=Action Game of the Year |url=http://www.gamespot.com/features/1999/p2_05.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20000823200006/http://www.gamespot.com/features/1999/p2_05.html |archive-date=23 August 2000 |access-date=5 August 2021 |work=GameSpot}} The Dreamcast version was a runner-up for GameSpot{{'}}s annual best platform game award.{{cite web |author=GameSpot Staff |date=5 January 2001 |title=Best and Worst of 2000 |url=http://gamespot.com/gamespot/features/video/bestof_2000/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20020213041653/http://gamespot.com/gamespot/features/video/bestof_2000/ |archive-date=13 February 2002 |work=GameSpot}} During the 4th Annual Interactive Achievement Awards, the Academy of Interactive Arts & Sciences nominated Rayman 2 in the categories of "Game of the Year", "Console Game of the Year", "Console Action/Adventure", "Animation", and "Game Design".{{cite web |title=D.I.C.E. Awards By Video Game Details Rayman 2: The Great Escape |url=https://www.interactive.org/games/video_game_details.asp?idAward=2001&idGame=582 |access-date=24 July 2023 |publisher=Academy of Interactive Arts & Sciences}} Rayman Revolution was a runner-up for GameSpot{{'}}s annual best platform game award.{{cite web |author=GameSpot VG Staff |date=23 February 2002 |title=GameSpot{{'}}s Best and Worst Video Games of 2001 |url=http://gamespot.com/gamespot/features/video/bestof_2001/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20020803185618/http://gamespot.com/gamespot/features/video/bestof_2001/ |archive-date=3 August 2002 |work=GameSpot}}{{clear}}