Scott Pilgrim Vs The World The Game is the video game based loosely on the six comic books by Brian Lee O’Malley. Which is also set to hit the big screen as a feature film this summer directed by Edgar Wright (Spaced, Shaun of the dead and Hot Fuzz) and starring Michael Cera (Superbad and Juno). The game is available now on PSN and tells the tale of Scott Pilgrim as he tries to win the affections of his love interest Romona by defeating her 7 evil ex-boyfriends.
That’s the premise to the game which is a throw back to the old 8bit beat em ups that filled our consoles in the 80’s think double dragon and your half way there. The game is purposely built to look like an old game rather than being an old code. The bulky simple graphics, flashing lights and the sound track will take users back to their childhoods. Developers have even gone as far as putting in glitches on purpose with large squares with X,O or a 1 in them appearing on screen obscuring your view, if you grew up in this era you will remember how they plagued early games. They certainly brought a smile to this old gamers face.
As there are seven boyfriends to beat it makes sense to have seven levels to complete all with an end of level boss. All the levels are full of 8/16 bit loveliness. A simple side scrolling beat ‘em up with simple controls, basic level design, old tricks like killing enemies who then release coins for you to collect and flashing screens are all employed here to give this game that retro feeling. A singe player campaign can be attempted on your own but it’s much more fun as well as easier to play the co-op option. Three other players can join you to sit down on the one console and battle there way through the Ex boyfriends.
Although it has many plus points it does have a few draw backs. Mainly the lack of any online play is big disappointment. The second let down for the multiplayer aspect is that there is no ability to drop in or out of the co-op mode meaning you must start and finish the game in one sitting before your friends have to go home. The last negative point is that it is bloody difficult! Not usually a complaint I make but the game feels artificially difficult in parts often frustrating you with situations you have no escape from. But these are small complaints and as you advance you do unlock more moves which make it more interesting as well as a little easier.
You have two main attacks a light fast one and a second slower heavier attack. Mixing these up with the jump button gives you an extra attacking option. As you advance you unlock more and more moves upgrading Scott all the time. You take on a stream of enemies, often you have to get in pretty close to do damage. This can prove very frustrating when fighting the faster enemies. You will quickly become over whelmed too by enemies to the extent that you have no option but to get killed. Killing the enemies releases coins for you to collect, the more difficult enemies giving the greater reward. This money can be spent on power ups and extra lives.
Fans of the comics will love this, new comers looking for a trip down memory lane will also get a kick out of this game. Not without its flaws but there is enough in this game to keep you entertained and challenged and everyone will be able to enjoy the wonderful soundtrack. Out now on PSN.
SCORE : 80%