In the course of his career he always strove to create works which audiences would understand and accept. His art drew a great deal on tradition, but distanced itself from avante-garde movements.

Ránki's style was eclectic and yet individual. He felt at home in all genres: light rock-and-roll hits, serious mystery-opera, miniature character pieces, and the symphony are all present in his output.

His multi-faceted art, humour, and his particularly grotesque musical voice made him one of the most fascinating and prominent personalities among Hungarian composers of the 20th century.