An Unprecedented Rayman 3 Prototype has Surfaced
Rayman 3: Hoodlum Havoc is remembered as one of the most unique games in the series. Distinguished from Rayman 2 by its humor, constantly changing level structure, and bizarre scenes, the game has built a loyal fan base over the years. However, newly surfaced prototype images suggest that Rayman 3 went through a very different development process.
Rayman 3 Prototype Looks Closer to Rayman 2
Yann Masson, who worked as a gameplay programmer on Rayman 3: Hoodlum Havoc, shared previously unseen prototype gameplay footage from his archives. The images show some sections not included in the final game and mechanics from the early development stages. This suggests that Rayman 3 may have had a different identity in its initial plans than the final version.
The most striking aspect of the prototype is Rayman’s design. In the images, the character appears with a design much closer to his Rayman 2 model, rather than the more modern look of the final game. This detail suggests that Ubisoft considered keeping Rayman 3 visually more faithful to the previous game at some point. However, the final version opted for the more modern and characteristic Rayman look we know.
The shared images also highlight several elements not present in the final game. These include a more intense underwater sequence, a chase scene with a gorilla-like creature, and different areas that seem to add more meaning to the “The Summit Beyond the Clouds” section. A section resembling a very early version of Murphy’s introductory scene where he carries Rayman by his hair is also visible in the images.
Nevertheless, the prototype doesn’t look entirely unfamiliar. Later in the video, some familiar boss battles and scene ideas from the final game are also seen. Therefore, the footage appears to be an interesting development document, showing how Rayman 3 started with a visual style closer to Rayman 2 but gradually developed its own quirky, fast-paced, and humorous identity.
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