Scott Pilgrim vs. The World: The Game - Complete Edition is a side-scrolling beat 'em up with action-RPG progression elements available on Nintendo Switch. Players control characters from the comic series and film as they fight through stages filled with enemies to confront Ramona Flowers' league of evil exes.
Gameplay
The core loop centers on side-scrolling combat where characters move through linear stages, defeating groups of enemies before reaching boss encounters. Basic attacks include light and heavy strikes that combine into combos, along with jumps, blocks, and special moves. Directional inputs expand the move set for different situations, such as aerial attacks or ground pounds.
Characters earn experience from combat and level up individually. Each level grants new abilities like counters, air recoveries, or enhanced specials. Shops scattered through stages sell permanent stat upgrades for health, strength, and defense using in-game currency. Players can also summon allies for support during fights and perform team combination attacks in multiplayer sessions.
Progression encourages replaying stages with different characters because leveling and unlocks remain tied to each fighter. Difficulty options adjust enemy aggression and damage, while a lives system adds tension during longer runs. The combat rewards precise timing and crowd control, especially when facing waves of foes that bounce items and characters around the screen.
Game Modes
The main campaign follows a world map with seven stages, each themed around locations and interests tied to the story. Players advance by clearing enemies and bosses, with the option to revisit completed areas for grinding or exploration.
Local co-op supports up to four players on one Switch console, while online co-op allows two to four participants with drop-in support. Teammates can revive fallen players and coordinate specials for stronger results. Online sessions require a Nintendo Switch Online membership.
Additional modes unlocked through play include Boss Rush for sequential boss fights timed for speed, Survival Horror against zombie hordes, Battle Royale for free-for-all combat among up to four players, and Dodgeball for competitive matches using the game's physics. These side modes provide variety beyond the campaign and work in local multiplayer.
Characters and Progression
Six playable characters appear in the Complete Edition: Scott Pilgrim, Ramona Flowers, Stephen Stills, Kim Pine, Knives Chau, and Wallace Wells. Each brings slight variations in move speed, attack reach, and special abilities while sharing the same core combat framework. Character-specific endings encourage multiple playthroughs of the campaign.
Items and allies tie directly into the Scott Pilgrim universe, with references to the source material appearing in backgrounds and dialogue. The leveling system adds depth by letting players customize stats and abilities over repeated runs rather than relying on one-time power-ups.
Is It Worth Playing?
This edition delivers the full original experience plus all previously released DLC content in one package. It suits fans of classic beat 'em ups who enjoy co-op sessions and character progression systems similar to older arcade titles with RPG twists. The game shines most when played with others, where the chaotic fights and team mechanics come together effectively.
Reception has been generally positive among critics and players who appreciate the combat feel, detailed pixel art, and energetic soundtrack. Some note the need for grinding to handle difficulty spikes comfortably and the dated pacing in solo play. On Nintendo Switch it runs in TV, tabletop, and handheld modes with consistent performance across supported hardware.
Those seeking a straightforward co-op brawler with story ties to the Scott Pilgrim comics and film will find value here, particularly at its current digital price point. The Complete Edition removes barriers that existed in the original release by including online features and extra characters from the start.
