Scott Pilgrim Vs. The World: The Game Review! Retro Gaming Reborn!
Overview:
Systems: PS3, XBOX 360Pros:
Retro 16-bit graphics, awesome chiptune soundtrack, solid beat ‘em up gameplay.Cons:
Farming money is necessary and repetitive, weak DLC.It’s not often a series makes me geek out, but this is one of the few. Scott Pilgrim vs. the World is both a movie and video game adaptation of the Scott Pilgrim graphic novel series. Not only does it capture the attitude of today’s “troubled youth”, but is also filled to the brim with hilarious commentary and references from other pieces of media, namely classic Nintendo titles. The gameplay style is reminiscent of the classic brawlers of the 80’s, complete with 8-bit style music. Available on Playstation Network and XBOX Live Arcade, this game brings us a little bit of retro action in a generation of cutting-edge technology.
Scott Pilgrim. 23 years old. Rating: Awesome. It’s not often a series makes me geek out, but this is one of the few. Scott Pilgrim vs. the World is both a movie and video game adaptation of the Scott Pilgrim graphic novel series. Not only does it capture the attitude of today’s “troubled youth”, but is also filled to the brim with hilarious commentary and references from other pieces of media, namely classic Nintendo titles. The gameplay style is reminiscent of the classic brawlers of the 80’s, complete with 8-bit style music. Available on Playstation Network and XBOX Live Arcade, this game brings us a little bit of retro action in a generation of cutting-edge technology.
Story:
The plot stays the same as the novels and movie, in which Scott Pilgrim must fight and defeat his crush’s seven previous boyfriends (hint: one is a girl) before they can be together due to her most recent boyfriend forming an evil league with her other exes. It is a very unusual but straightforward concept that offers plenty of room for action and comedy. The game specifically does not explain much of the story involved, and some players may be lost as to what is going on at any point in the plot. That situation alone provides another source of laughter, but it’s unfortunate that much of the back-story was left out of the game’s presentation. Most of the non-gameplay events take place in still pictures that very briefly sum up each level.
Gameplay:
If you’ve ever played River City Ransom or any similar side-scrolling beat ‘em up, you’ll be right at home with this game. Each of the playable characters has their own set of moves and statistics that can be upgraded through the various in-game stores. When an enemy is defeated he will drop money that can be used to upgrade abilities or buy food to restore health. Each enemy also gives experience that will level up the characters and make them passively stronger. The money grind can get tedious, but for the most part you get what you need through progression. Standard fare for this type of game, but it is rock solid in its execution. The fighting controls are very tight and the gameplay is nice and smooth; exactly what is needed in a brawler.
Graphics:
The game borrows even more from the 16-bit era by using heavily pixelated graphics and sprite-based animations. The sprites are smoothly animated and the environments very crisp and detailed. Some of the background characters are very simple, having only two or three frames in their idle animation, but the characters in the foreground more than make up for this with their awesome visuals. This game blows me away with how detailed a pixelated work of art can actually be.
Sound:
The music is comprised of a unique fusion of modern instruments and heavy use of 8-bit chiptunes. It provides a great score for a retro-themed game, while still giving it a modern feel. The entire soundtrack is composed and performed by chiptune band Anamanaguchi, who was a perfect fit for a game like this. The sound effects are exactly what one would expect from an old school brawler; hard hitting smacks and the pleasing 8-bit chimes of yesteryear.
Verdict:
Scott Pilgrim vs. the World is a unique, charming game that takes players back to a simpler time of gaming while still maintaining a very modern feeling. Its tight beat ‘em up gameplay and retro styling makes it a great experience, especially with more people. Up to four people can play simultaneously making this game an addicting party title. Whether you feel in the mood for some nostalgic gameplay or just want to kick back with some friends and play a solid brawler, this is a great choice. While I would recommend reading up on the story beforehand the gameplay alone is enough to keep you coming back for more. K.O.!
