Ubisoft is offering a major sale on Nintendo eShop with discounts up to 90% on popular titles like Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope and Immortals Fenyx Rising, with prices as low as $3.99, available until January 5.
Mario is not playable in the Rayman DLC for Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope because the developers wanted to focus on the comedic dynamic between the Rabbids and Rayman. They felt that Mario's inclusion would make it feel like two separate IPs combined, whereas Rayman was treated as a guest character. The trio of Rabbid Mario, Rabbid Peach, and Rayman was chosen for their comedic synergy and narrative arc, gradually becoming a trio of heroes. The creative director also discussed why Rosalina wasn't playable in the main game and expressed interest in making a new Rayman game.
The Rayman DLC for Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope is now available, featuring a "secret hidden message" that can be unlocked when completing the new content. The update also includes general improvements and fixes. Players can now enjoy the final DLC for Sparks of Hope and discover the hidden message related to Rayman.
Ubisoft has announced that Rayman will be making his return in a DLC for Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope on August 30th. The DLC, titled "Rayman in the Phantom Show," offers a standalone story adventure separate from the base game's storyline. Players will be able to control Rayman, Rabbid Mario, and Rabbid Peach, utilizing Rayman's haircopter ability and other classic Rayman-inspired powers. The DLC will be available as part of the game's Season Pass and Gold Edition or can be purchased separately. This marks the final post-launch content for the game, which underperformed financially despite positive reviews.
Ubisoft CEO Yves Guillemot believes that the company should have waited for the next Nintendo console to release Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope, as it resulted in two similar experiences on one machine. Guillemot mentioned that Nintendo advised doing one iteration on each machine. He also mentioned that the gaming market is suffering due to inflation, and people are being more careful with their purchases.
Ubisoft CEO Yves Guillemot regrets releasing Mario + Rabbids: Sparks of Hope on the Nintendo Switch and wishes the company had waited for the console's successor. Guillemot believes the game would have performed better if it had not released on the same platform as the first game, given their similar gameplay experiences. He also indirectly confirms a game coming to Nintendo's next console. Sparks of Hope launched in October 2022 to high critical praise but seemingly poor sales in what was otherwise a difficult year for Ubisoft.