The Rise of Mary Jane Wick in Marvel's Spider-Man 2

The idea of MJ wielding significant power (responsibly, if we might add) isn't a random decision; it traces its origins to the game's early development. Intihar reminisced about a cut storyline from Marvel's Spider-Man 1's where Peter gets injured, prompting MJ to step in and use his web shooter in a defensive capacity. While that plotline didn't see the light of day, it seems the idea of MJ being assertive and proactive stuck around.

Many gamers have embraced this new-look MJ. Her agility and combat capabilities, bolstered by her training from the expert marksman and combatant, Silver Sable, have made her a formidable presence in the game. Her once annoying stealth missions are now replete with action, amplified by her upgraded weaponry. In contrast to the original's slow-paced stealth segments, these missions in Spider-Man 2 are punctuated by moments of intense action, reminiscent of shootouts from games like Mass Effect.

Insomniac Games' choice to transform MJ's role in the game can be seen as a bold statement on heroism. The Spider-Man narrative has always centered on the notion that heroism isn't solely the domain of those with superpowers. Peter Parker and Miles Morales began their journeys as ordinary teenagers, transformed by the bite of a radioactive spider. In a similar vein, Mary Jane's evolution underscores the idea that heroism is a choice, an act of will. Her story and character development is testament to the idea that one doesn't need superhuman abilities to make an impact. It's about courage, tenacity, and the will to act.

Regardless of what your take on this shift in narrative, the memes, commentaries, and fan reactions suggest that Mary Jane's transformation has indeed made an impression.

Ultimately, while the return of MJ's missions and her John Wick-esque capabilities might polarize opinion, it's clear that Insomniac Games has been unafraid to reinvent and challenge established norms. The first-party PlayStation studio has turned a previously criticized element of their game into a talking point, furthering discussions about representation, heroism, and game mechanics.

Whether loved or debated, Mary Jane's evolution in Marvel's Spider-Man 2 is undeniably significant, not just in terms of gameplay, but in the broader narrative of what it means to be a hero.

Who knows? Maybe in Marvel's Spider-Man 3, it's not Peter Parker or Miles Morales who'll come to save the day - it will be Mary Jane.

As for John Wick, the franchise's long-time director apparently has ideas for more films in the franchise.