Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 successfully exceeded expectations after spending the better part of the past few years as one of the most highly anticipated games for the PlayStation 5. Introducing an expanded map and a gripping narrative, the sequel ups the ante with an array of iconic villains, led by Venom.
Venom’s representation in the game is pivotal. Not only does he serve as one of the primary antagonists, but a unique aspect has intrigued many: the possibility of playing as Venom.
To the delight of many, the answer is a “yes.”
Players can indeed assume the role of Venom, but this experience is confined to a singular mission when Harry Osborne becomes Venom. This segment involves a thrilling fight sequence with Venom taking on Kraven and his forces, resulting in Kraven’s defeat.
What stands out is Insomniac Games didn’t merely reuse the animations of movesets of either Peter Parker and/or Miles Morales. For Venom, the developers gave him a distinct moveset that authentically represents the character’s raw power and progress. As you navigate through this mission, you can almost feel the sheer might of Venom.
Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 primarily centers on Peter Parker and Miles Morales, allowing players to switch between the two Spider-Men seamlessly. Their encounters with various villains, including the eagerly awaited Venom, keep the narrative engaging. Interestingly, Venom’s involvement in the game was one of the most highly anticipated aspects ever since his appearance in the announcement trailer. The speculation surrounding Venom were reminiscent of earlier games such as Ultimate Spider-Man, where players had the privilege of controlling the humongous symbiote for significant parts of the narrative.
As you delve deeper into Marvel’s Spider-Man 2’s main storyline, the climactic moment arrives at the end of the second act. After a cinematic cutscene wherein Harry Osbourne bonds entirely with the symbiote at Oscorp Labs, players then step into Venom’s shoes. With a fresh moveset, they unleash havoc upon the guards, eventually facing off with Kraven the Hunter. Upon defeating him, Venom disappears into the city’s shadows.
The game draws from rich comic lore, injecting authenticity and depth into the narrative. While he isn’t Eddy Brock, the transformation of Harry Osborne into Venom is masterfully done and central to the story. Previous outings and trailers had hinted at this transformation. Specifically, at the conclusions of both Marvel’s Spider-Man and Marvel’s Spider-Man: Miles Morales, the post-credit and mid-credit scenes, respectively, provided glimpses of Harry Osbourne in symbiotic captivity.
The experience of playing as Venom, albeit brief, is an exhilarating detour from the typical gameplay. The developers ingeniously modified the familiar combat style of the Spider-Man series to craft an entirely unique feel for Venom. This gameplay, combined with an engaging narrative, undoubtedly marks Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 as a significant milestone.
Is this enough to give Insomniac a reason to release a Venom-centric spin-off after working on Marvel’s Wolverine? It’s indeed possible. But, if you ask one of the game’s voice actors, they have another wise-cracking anti-hero in mind for the sequel.
Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 is currently out on the PlayStation 5 where it’s enjoying critical acclaim. If you’re the patient kind, you can wait until November 8, which is when the PS5 Slim comes out that’s bundled with Marvel’s Spider-Man 2.
