Scott Pilgrim Graphic Novel Series: Which Volume Is the Best?

Scott Pilgrim fans often wonder which volume of the graphic novel series is the best. While the series as a whole is beloved for its humor, action, and memorable characters, volume 1, 'Scott Pilgrim’s Precious Little Life', stands out as a fan favorite and a recommended starting point for new readers. This article will explore why volume 1 is considered the best and why it remains a highly recommended read for anyone interested in the Scott Pilgrim universe.

Volume 1: 'Scott Pilgrim’s Precious Little Life'

Volume 1, 'Scott Pilgrim’s Precious Little Life,' is often cited as the best starting point for new readers. Here's why it's so beloved:

Introduces the rich character universe Sets the stage for a thrilling story Fascinating backstory of the protagonist, Scott Pilgrim

Character Introduction

Scott Pilgrim, the protagonist, is introduced in volume 1. His character is complex and relatable. The story begins in the early 2000s, showing Scott as a 23-year-old with a lack of job security and living with his roommate Wallace Wells. Though Scott seems to have a steady job, it’s clear that his life is chaotic and unpredictable.

Another major character introduced in volume 1 is Scott’s band, Sex Bob-omb, which consists of:

Stephen Stills on guitar Kim Pine on drums

Scott is also in an on-and-off relationship with Knives Chau, a 17-year-old high school girl. Their relationship is tested when Scott dreams of and later meets Ramona Flowers, a rollerblading young woman who can travel through subspace.

The Setting

The story is set in Toronto, Canada, and takes on a mysterious tone with the introduction of the League of Evil Exes. The first member, Matthew Patel, threatens Scott with a "boring" death and challenges him to a Mortal Kombat-style duel. This sets the stage for the thrilling and action-packed subsequent volumes.

Why Volume 1 Is Best

While the series as a whole is widely beloved, volume 1 has a unique appeal that makes it stand out. Here are some reasons why it's considered the best:

Complex Protagonist: Scott Pilgrim is a character that readers can relate to. He's a protagonist who still needs to become the hero he aspires to be. His procrastination and multiple romantic entanglements make him relatable and endearing. Highly Rated on Goodreads: Despite having the lowest average rating across all six volumes (4.18/5), volume 1 is still highly rated. This consistent popularity speaks to its quality and the entertainment it provides. Intense First Encounter: The introduction of the League of Evil Exes and the subsequent challenges provide a thrilling and engaging start to the series.

Other Highly Recommended Volumes

While volume 1 is the best starting point, it's worth noting that other volumes are also highly recommended:

Scott Pilgrim vs. The World (2005): This volume is known for its fantastic action scenes and humor. The protagonist's journey against the League of Evil Exes reaches a critical climax. Scott Pilgrim The Infinite Sadness (2007): This volume focuses on the emotional and romantic elements of Scott's journey, post-defeat of the final exponent. It provides a satisfying conclusion to the series.

The Ultimate Finisher

Many fans consider 'Scott Pilgrim’s Finest Hour' the pinnacle of the series. This volume is often seen as the ultimate finisher to the ultimate comic series. It captures the essence of Scott's journey and Ramona's impact on him. The ending is particularly satisfying, with Scott and Ramona going off into the unknown, hinting at a brighter, more open-ended future.

The fight, the jokes, and the nostalgia-inducing moments in volume 4 make it a fan favorite. Here’s a summary of what makes it so special:

The Ultimate Battle: The final battle is intense and satisfying, providing closure to the series. Nostalgic and Humorous: The volume is filled with memorable one-liners and dialogues that keep fans coming back for more. Nostalgia-Inducing: The inclusion of elements from earlier volumes creates a sense of nostalgia, reminding readers of why they fell in love with the series in the first place.

Overall, whether you're starting with volume 1 or diving into the series later, 'Scott Pilgrim' offers a unique mix of humor, action, and heartwarming moments that have made it a beloved series among readers worldwide.