Scott Pilgrim EX: A Fun Yet Somewhat Inconsistent Follow-up to a Cult Favorite

Eighteen years on from the time Scott Pilgrim vs. The World: The Game became a surprise hit as a beat-'em-up, Tribute Games arrives with Scott Pilgrim EX, an unofficial sequel that takes place after the Netflix animated series Scott Pilgrim Takes Off and includes an original storyline co-written by the creator of the franchise, Bryan Lee O'Malley. The storyline involves Scott, Ramona Flowers, and a group of former rivals who have reformer travelling to a fractured Toronto that has been taken over by gangs in order to rescue the members of Sex Bob-Omb who have been kidnapped.

What Works

The most significant difference from the 2010 version is in its structure: instead of using the previous side-scrolling gauntlet, EX features an open-world Toronto with quest-driven progression, a roster of seven characters, and a badge and accessory system. The pixel-art graphics are definitely one of the game's strongest points, since several different sources have highlighted both the visuals and the music as outstanding accomplishments, and the fast-paced combat combined with side-scrolling exploration of Toronto's streets, alien terrains, and retro-futuristic areas provides more variety than in the earlier game. Although combat still relies on timed button presses and combo sequences, with different strategies needed against each type of enemy, fighting feels amazing and performs rather well regardless whether it is played alone or in co-op mode. Simply put, the gameplay was an improvement on the original game.

Obviously a labor of love for fans of the original material; the references to the comics, the film, and the first game are both charming and warmly affectionate without coming across as mere fan service slop. This game truly feels like the creators love both the source material and the fans who made it the success that it was.

A Couple Gripes

The shift to an open world is the most controversial aspect of the game. Some of the biggest gripes I had were based on tracking and issues that a tightly structured, level-based game wouldn’t have. Furthermore, I found that the side quests were a little too nonsensical to care about. And with the open world aspect of the game, some side quests, while optional, even began to feel like chores.

Final Thoughts

Although Scott Pilgrim EX doesn't achieve the groundbreaking status some hoped for, it is a stylish, confident sequel that honors its past while also trying new things. For anyone who enjoyed the 2010 game or the broader Scott Pilgrim universe, this is easy to recommend. However, if you're new to the series and want the tightest possible beat-'em-up experience, you’ll probbably love this game.

7.9/10