Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 Review – Sticking The Landing

It isn’t a sure thing that a sequel will be successful. It does, however, set high expectations. Spider-Man 2 is an excellent superhero game that meets or exceeds expectations. The action features a fast-paced combat system, a clever mission structure, and a regular dose of thrill-inducing set-pieces. In addition to all the excitement and action, there is a fervent, heartfelt message about redemption, second chances and rehabilitation. Spider-Man 2 is a joyous and wholesome adventure, even when it has dark moments.

Spider-Man 2 continues the story of two characters who were introduced in the previous games. They have different powers, unique relationships, and core abilities, yet they are all united by the same central storybeats. Switching between characters (which is sometimes dictated through the storyline and at other times, by player choices) does not distract, but rather keeps it fresh. It also provides exciting action or cliffhangers during critical moments. It’s rewarding to have both heroes shine in a tag-team situation.

Insomniac’s take on web-swinging and traversal through New York City has always been a high point, but it’s given new life here through several additional tricks, including wingsuits that let you glide at high speed across rooftops. It’s a lot of fun to discover the many hidden attractions in the sprawling city.

The intensity of Spidey’s combat is always a surprise, whether you’re new to these games or returning after some time away. Smooth animations, smooth camera changes, and responsive buttons keep the pace from being overwhelming. The ability to use different gadgets, powers and abilities against the stacked odds was a lot of fun. Each character has a set of slotted skills that allow you to customize your gameplay. Even with that flexibility, Spider-Man 2 is a lengthy game, and the intensity of its frequent conflicts begins to lose its luster after a few dozen hours of punches, kicks, and web throws; it’s always good, but the fading thrill of the minion battles is eventually a victim of the game’s own sprawling scope and size.

Countering any eventual tedium in minor encounters, Spider-Man 2 also features some of the most climactic and cinematic action sequences I’ve encountered in a game, easily matching the grandeur and chaos of even the most exciting scenes in Spider-Man’s film outings. These technical showpieces revel in the power of the PS5 hardware; step back from the exhilarating scene, and it’s easy to ask: “How in the world did the developers do that?” High-speed chases, sudden, instantaneous scene changes, and titanic dynamic shifts to the game environment are common and exhilirating – and that’s just in the game’s first 15 minutes.

Spider-Man 2 attempts to inject some novelty into the gameplay by introducing smaller loops and moments. This is done to various degrees of success. It’s odd to say that some of these minor moments would be spoilers, but it’s best to discover them for yourself, as each is inserted to change things up in a way that surprises the player. It’s enough to say that a few sequences of stealth, non-powered locomotion through the city, and memorable evenings out with friends all act as palate cleansers. While these sequences often serve the story well, I’m not always sold on the accompanying gameplay.

Comic book writers have used violence and over the top action to highlight themes. Spider-Man 2, which is a sequel to the first film, takes this idea very seriously. It challenges the concept of heroes and villains and shows that people are more complex than they appear. Peter and Miles have different challenges. Still, they’re united in a belief about the good in those around them and their willingness to go the extra mile to protect even the most seemingly irredeemable individuals. Spider-Man 2’s storytelling digs into questions about returning from a dark place and having another chance, no matter past mistakes. And while there’s nuance in the answers, the generally optimistic conclusions fall on the side of hope.

Insomniac achieved the rarest video game feat. This team created a series of games which are all great on their own, but when combined create a grand saga that is enhanced by playing them in order. While more Spider-Man games will inevitably expand this mythology in new directions, there’s no need to wait. Spider-Man 2 has given the likable characters the adventure they deserve.