Few beat ’em ups have maintained cult relevance quite like Scott Pilgrim vs. The World: The Game. Its delisting and eventual return cemented its legacy as more than a licensed tie-in: it became a defining retro brawler of its era. Now, Scott Pilgrim EX arrives as a full sequel rather than a remaster, carrying both expectation and creative freedom in equal measure.
Developed by Tribute Games, the studio behind Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder’s Revenge and Marvel Cosmic Invasion, Scott Pilgrim EX aims higher than simple nostalgia. It introduces structural experimentation, deeper customization, and a more exploratory world design. While not every new idea lands perfectly, the result is an ambitious sequel that pushes the franchise forward without losing its chaotic charm.
Scott Pilgrim EX is now available on PC, PlayStation 4 & 5 and XBOX One & X | S.
Story – A New Chapter That Respects the Legacy
Rather than retelling familiar arcs, Scott Pilgrim EX presents an original narrative set after the events fans already know. Toronto is once again under siege — this time from robots, demons, rogue factions, and, yes, absurdly overpowered vegans. Members of Sex Bob-omb have vanished, instruments stolen, and the city fractured into districts ruled by escalating threats.
The writing carries the franchise’s trademark tone: self-aware, sharp, and casually absurd. Dialogue feels authentic to the universe, preserving the awkward humor and emotional undercurrent that define Scott Pilgrim’s identity. Characters like Scott and Ramona return, joined by playable figures such as Lucas Lee and Roxie Richter, each bringing distinct personality to both combat and conversation.
That said, the story occasionally plays it safe. While charming, it doesn’t dramatically redefine the emotional stakes of the universe. It works effectively as a continuation, but rarely surprises in narrative ambition.
New story, same universe
Gameplay – Expanding the Blueprint
At its core, Scott Pilgrim EX stays true to its side-scrolling beat ’em up roots — and the fundamentals feel great. Combos are fluid, throws hit hard, and crowd control is crucial when fights turn chaotic. Combat strikes a clean balance between accessibility and depth: casual players can button-mash their way through encounters, while experienced players will appreciate the nuance in positioning, combo routing, and character mastery.
Each fighter brings a distinct playstyle. For example: Lucas Lee dominates space with skateboard-heavy attacks, Roxie favors speed and aggression, and Scott delivers balanced versatility. Swappable special abilities add flexibility, encouraging experimentation. Structurally, the game moves beyond strict linear stages, introducing interconnected districts and shorter mission-based objectives.
The hub-driven design adds variety and exploration, even if it slightly softens the traditional arcade flow. Environmental weapons and interactive elements keep battles fresh without straying from the genre’s core identity.
Ramona
Graphics – Pixel Art at Its Most Expressive
Visually, Scott Pilgrim EX excels. The pixel art is vibrant and meticulously animated, striking a balance between retro homage and modern clarity. Character sprites burst with personality, and attack animations are fluid without sacrificing readability.
Backgrounds are densely detailed, filled with subtle references and environmental storytelling. If there’s criticism to be found, it lies in familiarity. The aesthetic evolution is refinement rather than reinvention. It’s undeniably beautiful — but not radically transformative.
Scott and Ramona
Sound – An Energetic Backbone
The return of Anamanaguchi is a defining strength. The synth-rock soundtrack once again injects adrenaline into every encounter, seamlessly blending with combat pacing. Tracks are energetic without overwhelming gameplay clarity.
Sound design reinforces impact. Hits land with exaggerated crunch, special moves feel powerful, and environmental interactions carry satisfying feedback. The audio landscape strengthens immersion without ever overshadowing the action.
-
- Scott
-
- Map looking like a hub
-
- Ramona
-
- Lucas and Roxie
This review was made with a key provided by Tinsley-PR.
