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

Dive into the surprisingly vibrant world of recent Spider-Man comics! Despite the mixed reception of Amazing Spider-Man, several novelizations offer compelling narratives. 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 descent into madness. Ferreira's expressive art takes center stage, conveying emotion even without dialogue. Ahmed's script effectively portrays Peter's anxiety, complementing Ferreira's nightmarish visuals. The antagonist, Paul, uses song to steal dreams, forcing Spider-Man to fight sleep while battling unsettling visions. The result? A captivating blend of Spider-Man and Junji Ito's horror style.

The limited series expands on this, plunging Spidey into a directed nightmare reminiscent of "Beau Is Afraid." Ferreira masterfully employs a "simple vs. detailed" approach, highlighting monstrous figures against a backdrop of a simpler, relatable Peter.

Spider-Man: Shadow of the Green Goblin

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

Uncover the shocking origins of the Proto-Goblin – a figure predating Norman Osborn! This flashback series explores young Peter's early struggles and the deep-seated trauma of Harry Osborn, foreshadowing his eventual Goblin transformation. DeMatteis delivers a dark, psychologically driven narrative, showcasing his mastery of Spider-Man storytelling. This prequel delves into the roots of Norman Osborn's descent into villainy, revealing the gradual erosion of his family's well-being.

The Proto-Goblin, a relatively obscure character, becomes a compelling focus, highlighting the insidious nature of evil. The story prioritizes character development over superheroics, offering a poignant exploration of human fallibility. Don't overlook this gem, a melancholic masterpiece unjustly overshadowed by the decline in popularity of flashback stories.

Spider-Man: Reign 2

Writer/Artist: Kaare Andrews

This isn't a true sequel, but more of a reimagining. Andrews restarts the narrative, depicting an aged, broken Peter Parker in a dystopian New York City. This installment, often compared to Batman: The Dark Knight Strikes Again, shares thematic similarities with Andrews' Iron Fist: The Living Weapon.

Andrews' signature style of brutal violence is on full display. The story features time travel, unexpected characters, and a darkly comedic tone. The graphic depiction of violence and the unflinching portrayal of Peter's suffering create a compelling, if unsettling, experience. It's a catastrophic vision of Spider-Man overwhelmed, yet ultimately finding redemption.