Those unfamiliar with the character and story should expect yet another cute take on the 2-D side-scrolling adventure game, but Rayman easily stands alongside Mario in terms of brilliance. Rayman, a cute, big-nosed guy with pompadour bangs and an infectiously upbeat attitude, is the Guardian of the World. Oddly, he has hands and feet but no arms or legs to support them. That doesn't stop him from doing his thing, however. His powers include jumping, clinging to ledges, using his ears as a helicopter, and, most importantly, punching. A helpful fairy doles out these powers to you as you complete tasks and progress in the game. Rayman's task, as usual, is to defeat enemies and free creatures (called Toons) caught in great iron boxes. Also, Rayman collects "tings," which he can use to barter with magicians as he rids his bizarre little world of oppression from the likes of colorful bosses Moskito and big, bad Space Mama.

The most striking features of Rayman Advance are its graphics and gameplay. The design is extremely creative; there are tons of things to bounce on, ride, and grab, and plenty of other tricks to do. It's the sort of game that always has you doing something new, which is no mean feat considering it spans 60 levels. Rayman is a first-rate 2-D platform game for all ages. Hey, pardon the pun, but, well, everyone loves Rayman. --Andrew S. Bub

Pros:

• Charming yet sophisticated platform action
• Creative level design throughout
• Beautiful graphics

• The music is pretty bland