The quintessential Spider-Man experience, and an all-time superhero game, sitting atop the mountain right next to Batman’s Arkham series. Playing this brought on all types of emotions, be it nostalgia from the OG PlayStation 1 Spider-Man game, to the mind-blowing reality of how far this franchise has come as an overall gaming experience since that time.
I have to start by tipping my cap to the writers and design teams, respectively. Given the success of Marvel’s Spider-Man film franchise over the last decade, it would have been easy for Insomniac to lean on Disney’s designs, aesthetic, and tone for their version of the character, but they dug into their creative bags and produced a distinctly unique experience. Peter Parker feels like Peter Parker, not Tom Holland’s Peter Parker. MJ gives the classic MJ vibe we all know and love, and I say that with no disrespect to Zendaya, who is excellent in her role. Many of the franchise’s iconic supervillains are present, with unique spins on the characters that make them all the more engrossing. With special shout-outs to Doc Ock and Norman Osborn.
Which brings me to my next point. The storytelling was amazing. I don’t think I’m going too far when I say it rivals the best stories Hollywood has written for the character. I especially appreciate how they introduced Miles Morales to the story. It did not feel obtuse or forced, and in fact, added to the experience without taking the spotlight away from Peter.
The gameplay was solid, and engaging, but nothing groundbreaking. Though I will say swinging through the city, wall running, and scaling skyscrapers is especially fun and engaging. The overall presentation is excellent, be it graphically, voice acting, cut scenes, or cinematic camera angles during combat. And the open world tactfully balances a plethora of side content without being too tedious or overwhelming. Oh, and it runs amazing, shout out to Nixxes.
