How To Scott Pilgrim

Before you lose your enthusiasm for all things Scott Pilgrim vs. The World, we’d like to make a recommendation as to the proper way to immerse oneself in this video game kung fu rom com. Over the past week, video games and movies have been thrown at you, all with the guilt of not having read the Scott Pilgrim comic books hanging over your head. Don’t sweat it! Here’s how you should get up to speed on all things Pilgrim before your next nerdy dinner party.

First, see the movie. It’s not necessarily the best of the three works featuring Scott, Ramona, seven evil ex-boyfriends (including one girlfriend), and cast of memorable characters, but it’s damn good. You like Hot Fuzz and Shaun of the Dead? Odds are very good you’ll like the humor here too.

If you even remotely liked the film–or you’re wondering just what the hell was happening amid all that flash and pop rock (it’s got Beck and Broken Social Scene!)–read the books. There are six volumes, but you can burn through all six in a couple hours. Story-wise, they’re stronger than the movie. Scott’s more likable, as is Ramona; there’s just so much great humor and style to it–plus it’s packed with obscure and obvious video game references!

If you’re cheap, you can grab the whole series for a pittance (approximately $40 on Amazon.com), but you should probably pick ‘em up from your local comic book store instead.

Finally, play the game. Scott Pilgrim vs. The World: The Game is essentially a repackaged River City Ransom, only with amaaazing sprites by Paul Robertson and brilliant music by Anamanaguchi. Sure, the co-op play is all offline (T_T) and it’s essentially a repackaged River City Ransom but it’s still a blast.

All that Scott Pilgrim will set you back, say, about $65 if you’re frugal about it. Way better than spending the equivalent on Crackdown 2 or Alpha Protocol or Madden. Promise!