The game is viewed from a third-person perspective. Players guide Rayman through interconnected stages, rescuing allies, recovering energy, collecting Lums, and defeating Robo-Pirates while searching for paths through forests, caves, lakes, ruins, and other environments.

Rayman attacks with ranged energy punches, jumps and glides through platforming sections, and uses new powers obtained during the adventure. Levels contain hidden cages, bonus items, switches, and alternate routes, encouraging exploration beyond the main objective.

Explore each area carefully before leaving. Rescue cages and collect Lums whenever practical, since they reveal more of the game's content and help identify overlooked routes.

Learn enemy attack patterns and keep moving during combat. New powers often change how earlier-looking obstacles can be approached, so revisit optional paths when the game makes that possible.