Scott Pilgrim vs. The World: The Game – Complete Edition Review

The original version of Scott Pilgrim vs. The World: The Game on the PS3 and Xbox 360 was unforgettable when it released in 2010. But once the game was delisted, there was no way for franchise fans to download it anymore.

Now, the game is back in the Scott Pilgrim vs. The World: The Game – Complete Edition. It’s available for more platforms than ever, including PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PC, and even Google Stadia. And I’m pleased to report that it retains all of the charm of the iconic original game.

Retro aesthetic

It’s impossible to discuss the Scott Pilgrim vs. The World Complete Edition without discussing the graphics. The entire thing is rendered in a 16-bit aesthetic that instantly transports you back to the days of the Super Nintendo and the Sega Genesis.

In addition to looking adorable, this aesthetic helps the game blend the worlds of the Scott Pilgrim comics and the movies. So while anyone who loves retro graphics will love the look of this title, the game is particularly rewarding for those who already love the Scott Pilgrim franchise.

Killer tunes

While the retro graphics are arguably the big draw for this particular game, it’s important to mention the music. Simply put, the chiptune-inspired soundtrack from Anamanaguchi is likely to be the best game music you hear this year!

That’s especially important because beating this game is going to take a lot of continues and a lot (I mean a lot) of grinding. The fact that the music doesn’t get annoying or overstay its welcome when you play the same level repeatedly is nothing short of a modern miracle.

Beat ’em up gameplay

But what does the game actually play like? As befits the retro aesthetic, the game mostly plays like an old-school sidescrolling brawler.

Of course, “brawler” can mean many different things to many different gamers. In this case, the gameplay mostly emulates the classic NES title River City Ransom. That means you spend every level moving from left to right and beating up a colorful array of opponents, culminating in some memorable boss fights.

One of the few downsides of the game is that the nonstop beat ’em up gameplay can get a little repetitive. Fortunately, your characters are constantly leveling up and unlocking new abilities. These abilities, combined with many interactive objects you can turn into weapons, keeps the combat from getting stale.