Scott Pilgrim EX Review: A Nostalgic Beat 'Em Up That Feels Like a Side Quest
In the year 20XX, unrepentant slacker Scott Pilgrim and his friends are still navigating the chaotic thrills of young adulthood. They are perpetually broke, yet in a manner that seems almost charmingly outdated, especially given today's soaring living costs in places like downtown Toronto. For many, the Scott Pilgrim graphic novels served as a cultural milestone, weaving tales of emotional immaturity, personal growth, and the ultimate triumph over youthful arrogance. Now, this beloved universe returns with Scott Pilgrim EX, a raucous action-adventure game that aims to recapture the magic of its predecessors.
A Homecoming for Tribute Games
This release marks a significant homecoming for developer Tribute Games, a studio founded by former Ubisoft employees who originally worked on the 2010 Scott Pilgrim game. Having built a reputation as masters of the beat 'em up revival with hits like Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder's Revenge and Marvel Cosmic Invasion, the team has taken on the challenge of revisiting this essential coming-of-age story. Scott Pilgrim EX radiates the passion of its creators, who clearly have the Powers of Love and Understanding on their side.
In terms of vibe, Tribute Games has undoubtedly succeeded. While contemporary pop culture has shifted away from mall goths and arcade gaming, Scott Pilgrim EX indulges in nostalgia about nostalgia, packed with endless references. Whether you appreciate homages to Super Mario Bros 3 scenery or nods to Resident Evil's Raccoon police department, the experience remains enjoyable even if these nuances fly over your head.
Gameplay and Characters: A Frenetic Romp Through Toronto
The game kicks off with a chaotic premise: Scott's bandmates from Sex Bob-Omb are kidnapped just before their next gig. Scott, along with Ramona and several of her reformed exes, must rescue the band and their instruments—plus Young Neil for some reason—in time for the show. Meanwhile, Toronto is overrun by reality-bending portals and a slew of new gangs, leading to battles against demons, robots, and even vegans across diverse settings like gothic castles, beaches, and a medieval burger shop.
With seven playable characters, the game offers a comfortable range of fighting styles. Scott relies on punches and bass guitar skills, while Ramona wields her signature hammer to cartoonishly bash villains. A notable addition to the roster is former evil-ex Lucas Lee, whose skateboarding martial arts push the limits of pixel art animation. Each character feels fun and frenetic, catering to beat 'em up fans who relish hitting thugs with metal pipes. Special moves help manage enemy hordes, ranging from overpowered attacks—like Young Neil's onslaught of Sex Bob-Omb fanboys—to brief, albeit somewhat boring, stat boosts. References to classic brawling games layer on top of the pop-culture tributes, such as eating roast chicken from the ground or encountering foes hiding in trash cans.
Soundtrack Evolution with Anamanaguchi
One of the most exciting aspects of Scott Pilgrim EX is the new soundtrack by Anamanaguchi. As sonically integral to the Scott Pilgrim universe as Sex Bob-Omb themselves, this New York City rock band returns with a hands-on approach to the game's music. Beyond their signature chiptune hits, players are treated to unexpected sounds, including an industrial beat for the Casa Vania level that evokes the 1990s vibe of Nine Inch Nails. Having matured as artists over the past 16 years, Anamanaguchi's control over the sound design significantly enhances the gaming experience.
Narrative Shortcomings: Playing It Too Safe
While the music and gameplay have evolved, the narrative of Scott Pilgrim EX plays it disappointingly safe. Despite being penned by series creator Bryan Lee O'Malley, the story lacks the edge that originally cemented Scott Pilgrim's cult following. The characters have largely resolved their conflicts, resulting in no David versus Goliath dynamics or antagonists that force growth amid messy relationships. Scott's friends appear in fun cameos and cat-meos, but the plot feels like a silly, shallow adventure—akin to a side quest that Scott might play all night, leading him to miss his work shift.
Perhaps this approach is acceptable. Even as they become better people, the characters never truly change, offering a comfortable tread through a cult property for millennials who grew up with the comics, movie, and original game. However, the Scott Pilgrim universe is now nearly as old as Scott himself, prompting the question: Could it be time to grow up?
Scott Pilgrim EX is available now on PC, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, and PlayStation 4/5, priced at £24.99.
