Which comics to read in the interim until Spider-Man 2 comes out on PC

Despite the less-than-stellar reception of Amazing Spider-Man, the world of Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man comics isn't entirely down in the dumps. In fact, there are several Spider-Man novelizations well worth your time. From chilling horror and psychological thrillers to lighthearted buddy adventures and even children's stories, these books offer fresh takes on the web-slinger, exploring different facets of his character and universe. We'll explore three distinct iterations: Web of Past, Web of Dreams, and Web of Absurd. Let's dive in and see which resonates most with an Insomniac game.

Table of Contents

Spine-Tingling Spider-Man
Spider-Man: Shadow of the Green Goblin
Spider-Man: Reign 2

Spine-Tingling Spider-Man

Writer: Saladin Ahmed
Artist: Juan Ferreira

Though released in 2023 and concluding in 2024, Spine-Tingling Spider-Man is too good to ignore. Initially a digital comic, it was later reprinted as a print one-shot (#0), followed by a four-issue limited series. The comic cleverly utilizes a tried-and-true formula: a talented artist immersing the hero in a psychedelic descent into madness. Ferreira's expressive art shines, even without relying heavily on dialogue, emphasizing the power of visual storytelling. While Ahmed's script is strong, it's Ferreira's art that truly takes center stage, perfectly conveying Peter's anxiety.

The limited series pushes the artistic boundaries even further. Spider-Man finds himself trapped in a directed nightmare, reminiscent of the film "Beau Is Afraid," experiencing a series of interconnected night terrors. From the fear of being unrecognized to the unsettling encounter with a creepy conductor, the visuals are captivating.

Ferreira masterfully employs a "simple vs. detailed" approach, mirroring the techniques of mangaka and Junji Ito. Monstrous faces are hyper-detailed, drawing the eye, while Peter's simpler depiction allows readers to easily empathize with him. This contrast creates a powerful visual narrative.

Spider-Man: Shadow of the Green Goblin

Writer: J.M. DeMatteis
Artist: Michael Sta. Maria

This story unveils a surprising secret: the first Goblin wasn't Norman Osborn! We delve into the origins of the Proto-Goblin, his connection to the Osborn family, and young Peter's role in this unfolding drama. The synopsis alone is enticing, isn't it?

This is a flashback series, offering a glimpse into a pivotal moment in Peter's past. DeMatteis, known for his work on Spectacular Spider-Man, delivers a dark, psychologically driven narrative. It's a story that explores the deep trauma of Harry Osborn and the origins of the Green Goblin's evil.

The Proto-Goblin, a relatively obscure character, is brought to life with compelling depth. The story focuses on the human element, showcasing the characters' vulnerabilities and struggles. The Green Goblin's looming presence is ever-present, highlighting the slow descent into darkness that shaped Norman Osborn.

Spider-Man: Reign 2

Writer/Artist: Kaare Andrews

New York City is under Fisk's iron fist, protected by an electric dome that keeps out the zombies. An aged, radioactive Peter Parker finds himself in a digital dream, only to have his illusion shattered by Kitty Cat. Together, they journey back in time to prevent disaster.

Andrews' style is raw and visceral, showcasing brutal violence and intense emotion. The story is a dark and gritty exploration of Spider-Man's struggles, culminating in a cathartic release. While not a direct sequel, it's a reimagining that explores the themes of loss, redemption, and the weight of responsibility.

This comic is not for the faint of heart, featuring time travel, grotesque imagery, and intense violence. It's a chaotic and emotionally charged story that pushes the boundaries of the Spider-Man mythos. Ultimately, it offers a powerful conclusion, allowing Peter to finally confront his past.