"Electronic Gaming Monthly" gave the PlayStation version a score of 8.625 out of 10 and their "Game of the Month" award. They highly praised the originality, animation, and musical score, and remarked that it firmly disproved the rumor that the PlayStation cannot do side-scrolling games well. "GamePro" likewise praised the animation and music, as well as Rayman's many acquired abilities, and commented that ""Rayman" is a dazzling delight and ranks as one of the most visually appealing games of this or any year." A critic for "Next Generation", though noting a lack of original gameplay elements, agreed "Rayman" to be an exceptional game, praising its clever design, depth, graphics, and sound. "Entertainment Weekly" gave the game an A+.