Two classic Nintendo 64 platformers, Rayman 2: The Great Escape and Tonic Trouble, are set to arrive on Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack on December 17. Both games, developed by Ubisoft, originally launched in 1999 and bring 3D platforming action to modern subscribers. Rayman 2 stands out as a critically acclaimed title, while Tonic Trouble offers a quirky adventure with mixed reception.
Overview
Nintendo Switch Online subscribers with the Expansion Pack will gain access to two Ubisoft-developed N64 platformers starting December 17. Rayman 2: The Great Escape marks the first 3D entry in the Rayman series, following the character's 2D debut in 1995. It was released in 1999 for N64, PC, PlayStation, and Dreamcast, earning praise for its gameplay and story.
Tonic Trouble, also from 1999 and conceptualized by Rayman creator Michel Ancel, features players as the purple alien Ed on a mission to thwart the villain Grögh. The game includes unique mechanics like transforming into Super Ed by eating popcorn and explores a mutated Earth with colorful characters.
Critical Reception
Rayman 2 received widespread acclaim, rivaling contemporaries like Crash Bandicoot, Banjo-Kazooie, and Super Mario 64. GameSpot's 2000 review awarded it a 9.3 score, highlighting its "wonderfully humorous story, excellent game mechanics, and perfection in almost all other categories."
In contrast, Tonic Trouble garnered a more modest response. GameSpot's 1999 review gave it a 3/10, noting it as "the game that's not Rayman 2" due to its shortcomings, though it retains a quirky charm.
Context and Additions
These releases follow Forsaken 64 in September and Mario & Wario in October. Speculation from July suggests more N64 titles like Glover, Donkey Kong 64, and Super Smash Bros. may join soon, building excitement for Nintendo's retro library expansion. Both games are exclusive to the Expansion Pack tier.
