Scott Pilgrim EX Review: Retro Beat 'Em Up Shines on Nintendo Switch

Scott Pilgrim EX brings the beloved comic and film universe to interactive life once more, this time with a vibrant mix of classic beat 'em up gameplay and modern enhancements tailor-made for the Nintendo Switch.

Developed and published by Ubisoft, Scott Pilgrim EX extends the legacy of Scott Pilgrim vs.

The World: The Game by offering an expanded and polished experience that caters to both long-time fans and newcomers looking for retro-inspired action. Set in a whimsically reimagined Toronto during the 21st century, players take up the role of Scott Pilgrim—guitarist and reluctant hero—as he embarks on a daring quest to rescue his bandmates.

The city is under siege from three unruly factions: the Vegans, the Robots, and the Demons.

With both his friends and his musical gear held captive, it's up to Scott (or one of six other selectable heroes) to fight through waves of adversaries across a series of eclectic environments. Scott Pilgrim EX eschews immersive 3D navigation, but players will find a dynamic side-scrolling adventure that incorporates depth and movement across multiple axes.

The game successfully blends straightforward brawler mechanics—think classic left-to-right movement—with modern gameplay flourishes.

Over 100 distinct combat moves and combos are available, including a variety of strikes, dodges, grapples, and character-specific special attacks.

Using ABXY buttons and the left joystick, players can unleash a barrage of punches, kicks, instrument swings, and even make creative use of environmental objects like rocks, skateboards, or even (humorously) turnips as weapons. A statement from Ubisoft highlights the game's focus on multiplayer, emphasizing: “With Scott Pilgrim EX, we wanted to capture the true spirit of jamming with friends.

Local and online co-op for up to four players means the chaos and fun are better shared.” One of the game's signature features is the option to travel via "subspace" passages, which serve as safe shortcuts between Toronto's diverse locales—ranging from suburban neighborhoods and beaches to movie studios and distilleries.

The variety in levels and enemy types keeps gameplay fresh, while shops scattered throughout allow players to purchase vital power-ups and health-restoring items—essentials when facing boss battles, each accompanied by a visible health bar for strategic play. Scott Pilgrim EX’s art direction leans into richly pixelated visuals, imbuing each environment, character, and foe with a charming retro appeal.

The soundtrack, infused with energetic tunes and punchy sound effects, fits the game’s playful tone, offering a nostalgic yet contemporary feel.

The controls remain accessible, though mastering the myriad of attacks and combos will require engagement with the robust tutorial system, which guides players through the game’s more advanced maneuvers. The game supports multiplayer for up to four participants, both locally and online.

Players can choose from multiple characters, each equipped with unique weapons and attacks, ensuring solid replay value.

Thanks to optimized performance on both Nintendo Switch and Switch 2, Scott Pilgrim EX is a standout addition to the hybrid console's growing library of quality brawlers. In conclusion, Scott Pilgrim EX offers an exhilarating blend of classic side-scrolling action, cooperative play, and meticulously crafted visuals and audio.

The engaging gameplay, abundance of combat options, and faithful adaptation of the franchise's tongue-in-cheek humor make it a must-play for fans of beat ‘em ups and Scott Pilgrim alike.

Available now via the Nintendo eShop, this game is a mighty strong pick for your next nostalgia-fueled adventure.