Scott Pilgrim EX: A More Mature Hero and a Promising Beat 'Em Up

Remember Scott Pilgrim? That charmingly flawed slacker from the graphic novels and the Netflix anime? Well, he's back and seemingly better than ever in Scott Pilgrim EX, a new side-scrolling brawler coming in 2026. This isn't just a rehash; it builds on the Netflix series' portrayal of Scott's growth, showing a more mature and likable character. I recently got a sneak peek at Gamescom, and let me tell you, it's shaping up to be a fantastic beat 'em up experience, even better than its predecessor!
The game, developed by Tribute Games (the minds behind the original Scott Pilgrim Vs. the World: The Game), appears to be set shortly after the events of the anime. This time, Scott teams up with friends and foes alike to battle demons and fitness enthusiasts across the streets of Toronto. Get ready for some seriously satisfying beatdowns!
Remember Scott Pilgrim? That charmingly flawed slacker from the graphic novels and the Netflix anime? Well, he's back and seemingly better than ever in Scott Pilgrim EX, a new side-scrolling brawler coming in 2026. This isn't just a rehash; it builds on the Netflix series' portrayal of Scott's growth, showing a more mature and likable character. I recently got a sneak peek at Gamescom, and let me tell you, it's shaping up to be a fantastic beat 'em up experience, even better than its predecessor!
The Netflix anime, "Scott Pilgrim Takes Off," did a brilliant job of revisiting the original story. It cleverly addressed the original's tropes, offering a warmer, more sincere perspective, even forcing Scott to confront his own immaturity. It was a relatable experience, reminding me of my own journey of self-discovery – though hopefully mine involved fewer epic battles with Ramona's evil exes.
A More Mature Scott Pilgrim
This growing-up continues in Scott Pilgrim EX. While not a direct continuation of "Takes Off," the game seems to be set not long after, featuring a more likable Scott. He's teaming up with both friends and enemies to beat up various foes – demons and fitness bros, of all things! It's a quirky premise, but it fits perfectly within the established world.
Gameplay Impressions from Gamescom
I spent about thirty minutes playing the game at Gamescom, and I was genuinely impressed. Compared to the 2010 beat 'em up, Scott Pilgrim Vs. the World: The Game, EX feels like a significant step up. The gameplay was smooth, the controls responsive, and the overall experience was just plain fun. The familiar combo system was present, but it felt refined and more satisfying.
The visuals were vibrant and stylish, capturing the unique aesthetic of the original source material perfectly. It’s that same blend of comic book energy and pixel art that fans will adore. I particularly enjoyed the over-the-top action sequences and the satisfying feeling of landing a well-timed combo. It scratched that nostalgic beat 'em up itch I haven't felt in ages.
Remember those moments in other games where you felt overpowered? This game manages to avoid that pitfall. The difficulty felt balanced, challenging without being frustrating, which is a testament to the developers' skill. There's a clear sense of progression, and I'm excited to see how the full game unfolds.
A Nostalgic Trip with a Modern Twist
Tribute Games clearly understands the source material and its fanbase. They've managed to capture the essence of what made the original game and the anime so appealing, while also adding their own unique touches. The game is a love letter to the source material, and it’s obvious that the team poured their hearts into the project. It's not just a cash-grab, but a genuine effort to expand upon the existing lore.
If you're a fan of the original Scott Pilgrim Vs. the World: The Game, or if you're just looking for a fun, challenging, and stylish beat 'em up, then Scott Pilgrim EX is definitely one to keep an eye on. The release date is set for 2026, so mark your calendars and get ready to unleash some righteous beatdowns!
What are your thoughts on the new Scott Pilgrim game? Let me know in the comments below!