Rayman fans just got the update they’ve been waiting years for. Gaming insider Tom Henderson revealed on the latest Insider Gaming podcast that Ubisoft has not one, but two Rayman projects in the works. Project Iceman is set to drop very soon to celebrate the franchise’s upcoming anniversary, while Steambot follows later as what many believe to be a Rayman Legends remake.
Tom Henderson Breaks Down the Projects
During the Insider Gaming Weekly podcast at timestamp 37:54, Henderson addressed the Rayman rumors directly when a listener asked about the two projects. He clarified that Iceman represents a standalone game tied to Rayman’s anniversary celebrations, expected sometime around September 2026 when the original game turns 30 years old. Importantly, Henderson emphasized this isn’t part of a remastered trilogy but a distinct commemorative release.
The second project, Steambot, remains more mysterious but aligns with previous job listings from Ubisoft Milan calling for 3D animators to work on a prestigious AAA Rayman title. Fans and leakers alike speculate Steambot is a full remake of the beloved Rayman Legends from 2013, potentially featuring modernized graphics while preserving the co-op platforming magic that made it a classic.
What Could Iceman Actually Be?
Henderson’s comments leave room for speculation about Project Iceman’s exact nature. The timing suggests it could be a 30th anniversary collection bundling remastered versions of Rayman, Rayman 2, and Rayman 3. Some fans hope for a new 2D platformer entry that recaptures the Origins/Legends art style and tight gameplay. The Australian rating board recently approved something called Rayman: 30th Anniversary Edition with an M rating, lending credibility to the collection theory.
YouTuber Corkben, who specializes in Rayman content, suggested Steambot might actually be a 3D reinterpretation of Legends aimed at a more mature audience. This would explain the job listings seeking animators capable of subtle emotional expressions and personality-driven character work. The M rating and adult focus could signal Ubisoft’s attempt to evolve the franchise beyond its family-friendly roots.
Ubisoft’s Rayman Renaissance
These projects mark Ubisoft’s most serious Rayman revival effort since Rayman Legends dropped in 2013. The timing feels perfect after Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown proved 2D platformers can still thrive. Former Lost Crown developers reportedly shifted to the Rayman projects after their sequel got canceled due to disappointing sales, bringing fresh talent to the limbless hero’s return.
Michel Ancel, Rayman’s original creator, serves as a consultant ensuring universe consistency. While his involvement excited some fans, it reportedly frustrated certain Ubisoft developers due to his controversial past leadership style. Ancel left the company in 2020 amid allegations of toxic behavior on Beyond Good & Evil 2, though he denied the claims at the time.
From Job Listings to Concrete Plans
The leaks gained traction after Ubisoft Milan posted job openings for gameplay designers and 3D animators specifically mentioning Rayman. The listings described creating high-quality animations that convey emotional depth and personality, suggesting ambitions beyond simple 2D sprite work. Ubisoft later confirmed to media outlets that Montpellier and Milan studios began an exploration phase on the Rayman brand, calling it more than just preliminary research.
Past rumors painted a confusing picture with Henderson initially hearing about only one project whose success would greenlight a second. Recent developments clarify two distinct efforts – the quick-turnaround Iceman for anniversary hype and the more substantial Steambot remake targeting late 2026. Development on both reportedly progresses smoothly despite Ubisoft’s broader corporate turmoil.
Rayman’s Rocky Recent History
The franchise hasn’t seen major releases since Legends, though Rayman appeared in Mario + Rabbids DLC and minor mobile titles. Fans watched hopefully as years passed without substantial news, especially after Ubisoft poured resources into troubled projects like the canceled Prince of Persia remake and the recently deceased Watch Dogs series. These Rayman developments offer a rare bright spot amid the company’s restructuring woes.
Ubisoft’s January 2026 announcement canceled six games and delayed seven more, yet Rayman projects survived the cuts. This suggests internal confidence in the IP’s commercial potential, especially after Lost Crown demonstrated demand for quality 2D platformers. The timing positions Rayman perfectly to capitalize on nostalgia while next-gen hardware enables stunning visual upgrades.
| Project | Code Name | Expected Timeline | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Anniversary Release | Iceman | Very Soon (2026) | Collection/New 2D Game? |
| Rayman Legends Remake | Steambot | Late 2026 | Full Remake (2D/3D?) |
Why Fans Are Excited
The Reddit post in GamingLeaksAndRumours captured the community’s excitement, racking up votes and speculation. Fans dream of recapturing Legends’ perfect co-op formula with modern online features and 4K visuals. Others hope for a true Rayman 4 that blends 2D platforming purity with contemporary storytelling ambitions.
- Rayman Legends remains a platforming masterpiece with 100+ levels of pure joy
- Lost Crown proved 2D platformers sell when done right
- Ancel’s consulting ensures authentic Rayman flavor
- Multiple studios signal serious investment
- Perfect timing for 30th anniversary nostalgia
Challenges Ahead
Ubisoft faces skepticism after years of broken promises and troubled launches. The company must prove it can deliver faithful remakes after the Prince of Persia debacle. Fan expectations run high for Legends specifically, which many call one of gaming’s perfect games. Any deviation toward live service elements or microtransactions could sour the reception.
The M rating raises eyebrows since Rayman traditionally targets all ages. Fans speculate darker themes or more mature humor, but execution matters. Steambot’s potential 3D shift worries purists who cherish the 2D art style’s hand-drawn charm. Success hinges on recapturing what made early Rayman games special while justifying modern pricing.
FAQs
What are Projects Iceman and Steambot?
Iceman appears to be Rayman’s 30th anniversary release coming very soon, possibly a remastered collection or new 2D game. Steambot is the larger project, likely a Rayman Legends remake targeting late 2026 release.
When did Tom Henderson make these claims?
Henderson discussed the projects during the January 2026 Insider Gaming podcast, clarifying details via Twitter when questioned about the Australian rating leak.
Is Michel Ancel directly involved?
Ancel serves as consultant ensuring Rayman universe consistency but isn’t leading development. His role reportedly frustrated some developers due to past controversies.
Will these be 2D or 3D games?
Job listings suggest 3D animation work, but the core platforming style remains unclear. Fans speculate Steambot could reinterpret Legends in 3D while preserving 2D gameplay DNA.
Why now after years of silence?
Success of Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown proved 2D platformer demand. Lost Crown developers shifted to Rayman after their sequel canceled, bringing proven talent.
Has Ubisoft confirmed anything?
Ubisoft acknowledged Montpellier and Milan began Rayman exploration phase. They called it more than preliminary research but shared no specific details on Iceman or Steambot.
What happened to other Rayman projects?
Rayman appeared in Mario + Rabbids DLC but saw no major releases since Legends (2013). Mobile spin-offs failed to satisfy core fans craving substantial platformers.
Can these projects survive Ubisoft’s restructuring?
Both survived the January 2026 cuts that killed six games including Prince of Persia remake. Multiple studios and Ancel’s involvement signal high internal priority.
Conclusion
Tom Henderson’s revelations position Rayman for its biggest comeback since the Rabbids era. Project Iceman offers immediate anniversary excitement while Steambot promises a definitive Legends remake. After years in limbo, the limbless hero returns at the perfect moment when gamers crave pure platforming joy. Ubisoft has one chance to recapture lightning in a bottle – deliver faithful, joyful experiences that honor Rayman’s legacy while embracing modern polish. Fans wait eagerly to see if these projects restore one of gaming’s most beloved franchises to glory.