This morning we reported that Ubisoft’s Rayman Jungle Run would soon launch on Windows Phone 8. Ubisoft first announced it back in February and released a nice Windows 8 version in March. Thus the Windows Phone 8 port was only a matter of time…
And here we are! Rayman Jungle Run is now available on Windows Phone 8. What’s more, it runs on devices with 512 MB of RAM, unlike last week’s Nokia-exclusive EA releases. With a highly manageable 49 MB download size, anyone who rocks a Windows Phone 8 handset should be able to enjoy this excellent entry in the Rayman series.
The return of Rayman
Rayman Jungle Run is a platform game that borrows elements from endless runners like Gravity Guy 2. Rayman (or his partner Globox) automatically runs forward at all times, freeing up players to concentrate on his jumps and other moves.
But this isn’t a game where you just run, jump, and run some more until you die. Jungle Run packs five worlds and 50 levels (plus a handful of secret levels) for players to master. Your goal is to not only complete every level but also collect as many Lums (floating collectibles) as possible while doing so. That collectible element adds a ton of replay value, because a level is only really done once you’ve perfected it.
Despite the title, Jungle Run takes place across a variety of beautiful, hand-painted environments. Rayman will run through caverns, mountainous peaks, and many more interesting places. Each world introduces a new power to master, including hovering, wall jumping, and punching. The game does a great job of warming you up to the tough stuff.
Windows Phone specifics
As you’d expect, the Windows Phone 8 version of Rayman Jungle Run is remarkably similar to its Windows 8 predecessor. The visuals are exactly the same but optimized for the smaller display – and because this isn’t a Windows Phone 7 game, the game still renders them at a sharp resolution. The music is peppy and puts you in the mood for some running.
All four characters made the cut and can be played right from the start. They share the same abilities, but at least give players a little customization to enjoy. Even the unlockable Gallery pictures are the same, and they actually look good at Windows Phone 8 screen resolutions, unlike on Windows 8 where they appeared too tiny.
Finally, Jungle Run’s Achievements are identical to the Windows 8 version. Players who buy both versions can earn both sets of Achievements. But the Achievements themselves might deter you a bit. The individual Achievements provide GamerScore in odd values instead of multiples of five, which always bugs obsessive compulsive types. But more importantly, a couple of Achievements require you to play through the entire game just about perfectly in one sitting. “Simply impossible,” indeed.
Make a run for the jungle
Evil Achievements or no, Rayman Jungle Run is one of the most enjoyable mobile platformers in existence. The game doesn’t offer a trial yet, but it’ll probably show up later on. Still, platforming fans can buy without fear of disappointment.
Rayman Jungle Run – Windows Phone 8 – 49 MB - $2.99 – Store Link
