Rayman fans received the best leak of 2026 so far when industry insider Tom Henderson revealed Ubisoft isn’t stopping at one Rayman project. The gaming journalist known for accurate Call of Duty and Battlefield intel dropped details about a Rayman remake (codenamed Steambot) targeting late 2026, plus a mysterious second Rayman game already in early planning. This double-barreled approach suggests Ubisoft sees serious franchise potential if the remake succeeds.
Steambot – The Rayman Remake Taking Shape
Henderson’s sources describe Steambot’s development as going incredibly well, with a tentative late 2026 release window. Unlike the disappointing Prince of Persia Sands of Time remake that Ubisoft recently canceled, this Rayman project benefits from years of groundwork laid through job listings and Michel Ancel’s consulting role. The leaker emphasizes that development progress exceeds expectations, positioning Steambot as potentially Ubisoft’s most reliable 2026 launch.
While specifics remain scarce, industry chatter suggests Steambot focuses on modernizing Rayman Legends or the original 1995 classic. Either approach makes business sense – Legends sold over 12 million copies with proven appeal, while a true original remake taps nostalgia without competing directly with the modern classic. Henderson’s perfect track record gives these claims substantial weight in leak circles.
The Mystery Second Rayman – Codenamed and Ready
The real excitement comes from Henderson’s revelation of a second Rayman project already carrying an internal codename. Ubisoft rarely assigns codenames to speculative projects, suggesting concrete planning beyond wishful thinking. This positions Rayman for potential back-to-back releases – remake first to reestablish the brand, followed by new content to capitalize on momentum.
Industry precedent supports this strategy. Successful remakes like Resident Evil 2 and Dead Space paved immediate paths to sequels. If Steambot recreates Legends’ magic with 4K visuals, expanded co-op, and quality-of-life upgrades, Ubisoft gains confidence to greenlight full production on Rayman 4. Henderson specifically notes the second project’s dependence on remake performance, showing Ubisoft’s uncharacteristically cautious approach after years of troubled launches.
Why Now Makes Perfect Sense for Ubisoft
Rayman represents Ubisoft’s safest revival bet amid corporate turmoil. The Prince of Persia remake’s cancellation freed resources, while Assassin’s Creed and Far Cry dominate the publisher’s AAA slate. Platformers offer lower development costs than open-world behemoths, with higher profit margins through digital sales and microtransaction-free design. Legends proved 2.5D platformers remain commercially viable in the Switch/PS5 era.
Nintendo’s upcoming Switch successor provides perfect timing. Rayman dominated Nintendo handhelds during the DS/3DS era, making a launch window alliance natural. Cross-platform release on PS5, Xbox Series X, PC, and new Nintendo hardware maximizes reach while avoiding Xbox-style exclusivity wars. Even mobile ports become viable post-console success, mirroring Crash Bandicoot’s revival strategy.
Rayman’s Proven Platformer Pedigree
| Game | Release Year | Sales | Metacritic |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rayman (Original) | 1995 | 2.5M+ | N/A |
| Rayman 2 | 1999 | 4M+ | 91 |
| Rayman Origins | 2011 | 5M+ | 91 |
| Rayman Legends | 2013 | 12M+ | 91 |
Rayman’s sales consistency across three decades proves enduring appeal. Each revival exceeded expectations, with Legends representing Ubisoft’s last true platformer masterpiece. The franchise thrives on accessible co-op, gorgeous art, tight controls, and endless challenge modes – elements aging better than most genres.
What Success Could Mean for Rayman’s Future
- Rayman 4 greenlit: Full sequel with new worlds, expanded mechanics, 4-player co-op from launch
- Animated feature: Michel Ancel’s long-gestating Rayman movie gains traction
- Spin-off expansion: Rabbids crossover or new side-scrolling adventure
- Switch 2 system seller: Perfect launch title alongside Mario and platformer rivals
- Live service potential: Daily challenges, seasonal content, global leaderboards
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Tom Henderson and how reliable is he?
Tom Henderson runs Insider Gaming with an impeccable track record across Call of Duty, Battlefield, and publishing schedules. His Ubisoft leaks consistently materialize, making Rayman claims highly credible despite unconfirmed status.
What is Steambot exactly remaking?
Henderson hasn’t specified, but context suggests either Rayman Legends (most commercially viable) or the 1995 original (nostalgia play). Legends remaster seems likeliest given existing assets and fan familiarity.
When will we see official announcements?
Expect reveals at Ubisoft Forward summer 2026 or June’s big showcases. Late 2026 launch requires marketing ramp-up by Q2, following proven release cadences.
Will Rayman return to 3D like Rayman 3?
Unlikely for Steambot. 2.5D platformers dominate modern successes. Full 3D revival represents higher risk after Rabbids’ mixed 3D reception.
Which platforms should we expect?
PS5, Xbox Series X/S, PC, and Switch 2 seem certain. Multiplatform approach maximizes sales, mirroring successful Crash Bandicoot and TMNT revivals.
Is Michel Ancel creatively involved?
Ancel consults but doesn’t direct. His brand oversight ensures authenticity without day-to-day management, balancing creative input with studio execution.
Could the second game be canceled?
Yes, Henderson notes it depends on Steambot’s commercial performance. Ubisoft’s recent cancellations show risk aversion, but Rayman’s track record provides strong foundation.
Rayman’s Moment Arrives
Two Rayman projects signal Ubisoft betting big on their forgotten mascot. Steambot offers low-risk revival through proven IP, while the codenamed sequel represents franchise ambition. Success transforms Rayman from nostalgic footnote to platformer powerhouse rivaling Mario and Sonic. Failure condemns another decade of silence. Henderson’s leak positions 2026 as make-or-break for the limbless legend – exactly the stakes Rayman fans crave after 13 years waiting.