(Originally written October 25, 2024)

For seven years after 2.1 released, 2.0 felt like it just ended. It didn't seem like that long ago that we didn't have the rotate trigger; the spider gamemode was still brand new. But the release of 2.2 shattered that misconception. The limitations of 2.0 were long behind us, and the editor had become so powerful that levels made in 2.0, a revolutionary update, started looking dated. Levels made in 2.0 started feeling nostalgic.

This level is a testament to the transient beauty of the 2.0 era. Its decoration is simple but perfectly executed, from the monochrome rainbow color scheme to the clean semitransparent block design. Put simply, this level makes me feel like a kid again. It's simple, beautiful, and wonderful.

Of course I have to mention the main gimmick of the level; entire parts of the level move around the player to give the illusion of free movement. This was a very popular gimmick in 2.0, and it's done exceptionally well here. The modern 2.2 elements are used sparingly in ways that amplify the aesthetic in a very cool way, particularly with the free dual mode making the reflection effect much more convincing.

rAiNbOw OrIgIn is one of my favorite levels of 2.2. It's a beautiful nostalgic journey while using modern objects and techniques very tastefully. Besides being a bit derivative and repetitive at times, I really don't have a whole lot of negative things to say. It accomplished exactly what it set out to do, making it a treat for long-time players.