The internet lost its collective mind when a Nintendo eShop listing briefly revealed the release date for Scott Pilgrim EX: March 3, 2026. The beat ’em up sequel – announced at Summer Game Fest 2025 and developed by original studio Tribute Games – now has official timing, ending months of ‘early 2026’ speculation that began when Bryan Lee O’Malley penned the new story.
The leak appeared on Nintendo’s Japanese eShop before disappearing, but screenshots spread instantly across r/GamingLeaksAndRumours. Priced at regional equivalent of $28.99, the listing confirms multiplatform release across Switch, PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PS4, and PC. Physical editions from Limited Run Games remain available for preorder with shipping starting January 2026.
From Cult Hit to Long-Awaited Sequel
Scott Pilgrim vs. the World: The Game became instant legend upon 2010 release, only for Ubisoft to delist it in 2014 over licensing issues. Fan outcry led to 2021’s Complete Edition relaunch, setting stage for Tribute Games’ return. Scott Pilgrim EX continues directly from Scott Pilgrim Takes Off anime, blending new story with expanded roster.
Seven playable characters headline the action: Scott Pilgrim, Ramona Flowers, plus five league members battling demons, vegan henchmen, and robots across time-warped Toronto. 4-player drop-in/drop-out co-op returns with modernized combat, upgrade systems, and hidden secrets. Chiptune legends Anamanaguchi score the soundtrack again.
Tribute Games’ small-team agility shines through. Developers from original game lead project with O’Malley’s direct involvement ensuring authenticity. Universal’s publishing muscle replaces Ubisoft’s troubled tenure, securing physical releases across platforms.
Physical Editions Secure Legacy
Limited Run Games announced three physical editions during San Diego Comic-Con 2025, calming fears of digital-only fate:
| Edition | Price | Includes | Ships |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | $39.99 | Foil cover, reversible art | Jan 20-31, 2026 |
| Deluxe | $64.99 | Soundtrack, O’Malley comic | Feb 24-Mar 3 |
| Ultimate | $99.99+ | Everything + collectibles | March 2026 |
Preorders ran July 26-September 21, 2025. Standard edition’s exclusive foil cover suggests mass-market physical beyond collector tiers. Switch cartridge capacity handles expanded content without downloads.
Gameplay Evolution
Tokyo Game Show 2025 demo impressed with refined mechanics. Creative combat blends classic beat ’em up with character-specific specials:
- Scott Pilgrim: Bass combos, vegan police takedowns
- Ramona Flowers: Rollerblades, subspace hammer
- New characters: Lucas Lee, Roxie Richter confirmed
- Enemy factions: Demons, robots, vegan army
- Upgrade trees: Stats, abilities, cosmetics
Time-travel Toronto spans multiple eras with environmental puzzles. Dynamic enemy waves scale with co-op count. Accessibility options include easy mode, colorblind filters, and simplified controls.
Perfect Timing Strategy
March 3 lands strategically between major releases:
- Avoids February Nintendo heavyweights
- Precedes MLB The Show 26 (March 17)
- Coincides with Limited Run shipping
- Spring co-op sweet spot
Universal positions EX as cult classic revival rather than blockbuster competitor. Niche appeal targets existing fans while anime success expands audience. Digital $29 price matches Complete Edition adjusted for inflation.
Why This Matters
Scott Pilgrim EX represents redemption arc. Original game’s delisting scarred community; physical editions ensure permanence. Tribute Games proves small studios deliver when publishers trust vision. O’Malley and Anamanaguchi’s involvement guarantees authenticity.
Beat ’em up renaissance continues post TMNT: Shredder’s Revenge, River City Girls. EX elevates formula with narrative depth, roster variety, modern polish. March timing tests market appetite before summer sequels.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the March 3 date confirmed?
eShop listing appeared then vanished, but Nintendo rarely pulls accurate dates. Multiple sites corroborate early 2026. Physical shipping timelines align perfectly.
Will it get delisted like the original?
No. Universal ownership, physical editions, and Complete Edition precedent ensure longevity. Limited Run guarantees collector preservation.
Which platforms get physical?
All major platforms via Limited Run. Standard edition suggests mass-market beyond collectors. Switch cartridge confirmed.
Is Bryan Lee O’Malley involved?
Yes, wrote original story. Direct collaboration with Tribute Games. Instagram posts confirm hands-on role.
Co-op local or online?
4-player local drop-in/drop-out confirmed. Online likely given modern standards, though unannounced.
Price and editions?
$28.99 digital. Physical starts $39.99 Standard. Deluxe $64.99 includes soundtrack/comic. Ultimate $99+ full collection.
Soundtrack details?
Anamanaguchi returns. Chiptune evolution with modern production. Featured in Deluxe/Ultimate physical.
Demo available?
Tokyo Game Show 2025 playable. Possible Nintendo Direct demo precedes launch.
Retro Revival Done Right
Scott Pilgrim EX delivers on 15-year promise. eShop leak confirms March 3 reality just weeks after fan campaigns reignited interest. Tribute Games redeems original legacy with Universal backing, physical permanence, and creator involvement.
Beat ’em up golden age continues. Physical editions secure against digital fate. $29 entry proves accessible ambition. Mark calendars – Toronto’s vegan police face final reckoning spring 2026.