The PlayStation-exclusive Marvel’s Spider-Man series by Insomniac Games is a critically acclaimed superhero saga featuring fluid, physics-based web-swinging, and a mature, original narrative. The franchise, which has since been ported to PC, follows not one but two Spider-Men: the experienced Peter Parker and his young protégé, Miles Morales.
Games in the series
Marvel’s Spider-Man (2018)
The first game introduces a Peter Parker who has been Spider-Man for eight years and is a seasoned crime fighter. His superhero career collides with his personal life as a researcher for Dr. Otto Octavius, and he must confront a plot by the super-human crime lord Mister Negative. The emotionally impactful story culminates with Peter facing off against the Sinister Six while a deadly bioweapon is unleashed on the city.
Marvel’s Spider-Man: Miles Morales (2020)
This standalone sequel shifts focus to Miles Morales as he steps into the role of Spider-Man. With Peter Parker away, Miles must protect his new home in Harlem from a corporate conspiracy and a high-tech criminal army called the Underground. The game introduces Miles’ unique bio-electric “venom” powers and camouflage abilities, giving his combat a distinct feel from Peter’s.
Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 (2023)
The third installment of the franchise features both Peter Parker and Miles Morales as playable characters, who can be switched between at any time. They team up to face an expanded roster of villains, including the ruthless Kraven the Hunter and a menacing new incarnation of Venom. The story explores Peter’s struggle with the corrupting influence of the alien symbiote and forces both heroes to confront new personal and heroic challenges.
Key gameplay features
- Web-swinging traversal: The fluid and acrobatic web-swinging is considered a series highlight, allowing players to traverse a vibrant, open-world New York City with thrilling speed and style.
- Dynamic combat: The combat system blends improvisational brawler moves, acrobatics, and environmental interactions. Players can use an array of gadgets and unique powers—like Miles’ venom attacks and Peter’s symbiote abilities—to take down enemies.
- Original stories: While drawing from the rich Spider-Man comic lore, the games tell a unique and emotionally resonant story set in a custom Marvel universe (Earth-1048).
- Reimagined characters: The series reintroduces iconic characters like Peter’s ex-girlfriend Mary Jane Watson as an aspiring journalist and a reinterpretation of classic villains like Doctor Octopus, Kraven, and Venom.
