Scott Pilgrim EX: A Nostalgic Beat 'em Up Adventure
A beloved franchise returns, but does it bring enough new excitement? Scott Pilgrim EX marks a reunion for the developers at Tribute Games, who are no strangers to the franchise. With their expertise in creating visually captivating beat 'em up games, they've crafted another entry in the Scott Pilgrim universe. However, it may leave some players wanting more in terms of surprises and innovation.
This installment takes place in a timeline that's a bit unclear, possibly after the anime, but definitely post-comic, movie, and the first game. The story's placement is not crucial, as it primarily serves as a reason to bring together a vast array of characters from the Scott Pilgrim universe, along with some fresh faces. Creator Bryan Lee O'Malley's influence is evident in the authentic dialogue, consistent art style, and playful references to Canada and video games.
But here's where it gets controversial: While the narrative didn't evoke strong emotions, it's the lighthearted approach and fun cameos that keep players engaged. The soundtrack, composed by Anamanaguchi, is a standout feature, especially for fans of the first game's music. It remains to be seen if the new tracks will become fan favorites, but they certainly enhance the gameplay experience.
One unique aspect of Scott Pilgrim EX is its open-world design, inspired by River City Ransom. Players are free to explore Toronto from the very beginning, a refreshing change from the traditional level-based structure. The city layout is a highlight, encouraging exploration and discovery as players search for bandmates, collect items, and unlock portals to alternate timelines. Despite its cartoonish chaos, the world feels surprisingly immersive.
The open-world format also introduces light adventure game elements. Players must pay attention to NPC hints and navigate the city to progress, adding a layer of exploration to the typical beat 'em up formula. These puzzles are simple yet enjoyable, providing moments of respite between intense combat sequences.
Speaking of combat, it's a chaotic and familiar affair. The character Roxie stands out for her speed and powerful double jump attack. While all characters are enjoyable, there's little incentive to switch once you've found your favorite. The combat can become overly frenetic at times, with the player character zipping across the screen and objects flying in all directions, making precise attacks challenging. The age-old beat 'em up issue of misaligned combos remains, but the overall combat balance is well-executed.
And this is the part most people miss: Scott Pilgrim EX may not be groundbreaking, but it's a solid entry in the genre. Tribute Games excels at creating nostalgic beat 'em ups, and fans of the franchise will appreciate the opportunity to revisit this world. The excellent soundtrack and open-world exploration are highlights, even if the game doesn't push the boundaries of the genre. So, is it a must-play? That's for you to decide, and we'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments!
