Travis Alajoki, contributor
The recent release of Insomniac’s “Spider-Man 2” on the PC made me want to replay the story a year after going through it for the first couple of times. Replaying the game from start to finish again without the rose-tinted glasses really set into stone that this game should have been greater.
To give some insight into what I am even ranting about, “Spider-Man 2” is a sequel to Marvel’s “Spider-Man” made by Insomniac. Marvel’s “Spider-Man” is an open-world action-adventure game in which you take on the mantle of Spider-Man, swinging through the city and taking down any villains that pose a threat. The first game was released in 2018 to record-breaking sales for the PlayStation 4 and was even nominated for Game of the Year at the Game Awards, but lost to God of War. You can guess how I felt about that.
I was very excited for Marvel’s “Spider-Man” to come out because I have been a fan of the franchise since I’ve been able to form memories. I have over 200 hours in the first game alone and 150 hours in “Miles Morales,” a smaller side step of a game showing Miles Morales stepping out of Peter Parker’s shadow and becoming his hero. I enjoyed “Miles Morales” as well and it boosted my hype for the sequel even more. I couldn’t wait for the full sequel to release in late 2023. When “Spider-Man 2” was released I called in sick for classes so I could focus just on the game. Now after having 500 hours (no shame) into the game I have mixed feelings.
If I had to explain it in short words, “Spider-Man 2” is more of a rollercoaster than anything. It has very high highs, very low lows and once you are done with the story it doesn’t leave a lasting impression. The first game’s story crushed me for weeks and I would constantly think about it. However, the same can’t be said for the sequel.
If I had to explain it in short words, “Spider-Man 2” is more of a rollercoaster than anything. It has very high highs, very low lows and once you are done with the story it doesn’t leave a lasting impression. The first game’s story crushed me for weeks and I would constantly think about it. However, the same can’t be said for the sequel.
travis alajoki
The first thing that makes the sequel a letdown is the lack of innovation. The game adds big things like web wings, two new boroughs to NYC and some innovations to the combat but it feels more like a DLC than an upgrade. Marvel’s “Spider-Man 2” fails to live up to the high expectations set by its predecessors. The storyline feels predictable despite introducing new characters like Venom, their potential is underutilized and the narrative feels rushed. By the time I was done with the story, I couldn’t believe it.
The gameplay remains enjoyable but lacks significant innovation, with combat and web-slinging mechanics that feel repetitive. The open world, while expansive, doesn’t offer notable upgrades besides an endless grind to get more collectibles. Side missions often feel like filler. Ultimately, “Spider-Man 2” feels more like a rehash than a groundbreaking sequel. The thing that makes me the most angry is the lack of creativity and expansion in the game. There was so much more they could have done but just didn’t, wasted potential honestly. The only thing I hope for is for it to be better the third time around. Which if you see me calling in sick to class, no you didn’t.