Bryan Lee O’Malley is the creative mind behind Scott Pilgrim, a beloved series that started as a comic and evolved into various forms including a movie, an anime, and now a new video game, Scott Pilgrim EX. The game pays homage to classic 80s and 90s video games, with a special nod to titles like River City Ransom.
In a recent chat, O’Malley shared his excitement about being more involved in Scott Pilgrim EX than he was with the first game back in 2010. He plays a significant role as a consultant, shaping the narrative and character designs while allowing artists the freedom to explore their creativity. “My role is to help where I can,” he said. He’s keen on making the game feel as dynamic and fluid as possible, reflecting his passion for gaming since childhood.
When asked about his favorite games, O’Malley mentioned River City Ransom, Chrono Trigger, Monkey Island 2, and Bloodborne. He feels that Scott Pilgrim EX captures elements from all these games. For instance, the humor in Monkey Island influenced the dialogue in Scott Pilgrim EX, while Bloodborne’s combat inspired its diverse gameplay mechanics.
Interestingly, O’Malley’s nostalgia for gaming fuels his motivation. “Games like River City Ransom taught me the joy of co-op gaming,” he recalled. This sentiment has resonated with fans, especially as the retro aesthetics of the Scott Pilgrim universe continue to attract new audiences.
As for why now is the right time for the return of Scott Pilgrim, O’Malley explained, “It’s about reclaiming my love for it. The recent projects have helped me see it in a new light.” The 2023 anime adaptation and the new anniversary box set reignited his passion for the series.
O’Malley’s meticulous approach to writing also shines through in his quest to keep the game’s dialogue concise. He believes that effective storytelling in games often means less is more. “I want each line to feel impactful,” he noted, reflecting his comic-writing roots.
With the game’s launch around the corner, the excitement is palpable. Players are eager to dive into a game that not only respects its roots but also evolves alongside contemporary gaming trends. As O’Malley continues to shape the Scott Pilgrim universe, his passion for storytelling and gaming keeps the legacy alive, one pixel at a time.
