Top Comics to Tide You Over Until Spider-Man 2's PC Release

Dive into the surprisingly robust world of recent Spider-Man comics! Despite the mixed reception of Amazing Spider-Man, several novelizations offer compelling reads. From horror and psychological thrillers to buddy-cop adventures and even a fresh take on Spidey's origin, there's something for everyone. We'll explore three distinct styles: Web of Past, Web of Dreams, and Web of Absurd. Let's 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

Spanning 2023-2024, this initially digital-only comic (later reprinted) delivers a psychedelic nightmare. Ferreira's expressive art takes center stage, conveying Peter's anxiety even without dialogue. Ahmed's script effectively supports Ferreira's visuals, creating a Junji Ito-esque experience. The antagonist, Paul, uses song to steal dreams, forcing Spider-Man to fight sleep while battling unsettling visions.

The limited series elevates the visuals further, plunging Spidey into a directed nightmare reminiscent of "Beau Is Afraid." Ferreira masterfully employs a "simple vs. detailed" approach, highlighting monstrous faces against a simpler, terrified Peter, mirroring techniques seen in manga.

Spider-Man: Shadow of the Green Goblin

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

Uncover the shocking origins of the Proto-Goblin, predating Norman Osborn! This flashback series explores a young Peter grappling with responsibility and the shadowy beginnings of the Green Goblin's legacy.

This isn't just another nostalgia trip. DeMatteis delivers a dark, psychologically driven narrative, showcasing his mastery of Spider-Man's character. It's a prequel to Harry Osborn's tragic Goblin arc in Spectacular Spider-Man, delving into the roots of Norman's evil.

The Proto-Goblin, a relatively obscure character, is brilliantly utilized. DeMatteis masterfully weaves a tale of a family's descent into darkness, highlighting the gradual build-up of evil rather than solely focusing on the Goblin serum. This unjustly overlooked limited series is a gem.

Spider-Man: Reign 2

Writer/Artist: Kaare Andrews

More of a remake than a sequel, Reign 2 restarts the dystopian world of the first Reign. An aged, broken Peter, haunted by his past, finds himself in a digital dream with Mary Jane, only to be disrupted by Kitty Pryde. This leads to time travel and a chaotic adventure.

Andrews' signature violent style is on full display, showcasing Spider-Man's most brutal injuries yet. The comic is unapologetically over-the-top, featuring time travel, Goblin children, and a cybernetic Kingpin. The story culminates in a cathartic release for Peter, allowing him to finally confront and overcome his past.