Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 will release exclusively on the PlayStation 5 on October 20 and the hype surrounding its launch is so real that you could feel that you could hang on and swing on it. What’s further fueling the clamor is that, as soon as the review embargo lifted on October 16, the earliest reviews couldn’t help but tout the game as nothing short of, fittingly enough, spectacular.
This new entry follows in the footsteps of its illustrious predecessors, Marvel’s Spider-Man, which came out in 2018, and Marvel’s Spider-Man: Miles Morales, following suit in 2020. Akin to the trajectory of the former games, the sequel came with just as much attention if not more, not just because of the existing legacy but for the innovative storytelling and its gameplay. Of course, with Spider-Man being MIA in the Marvel Cinematic Universe since Spider-Man: No Way Home, this is as close as anyone can get to everybody’s friendly neighborhood smart ass until Kevin Feige says so.
Both of New York’s finest superheroes, Peter Parker and Miles Morales, are combined in this epic narrative, giving the players a dual perspective against adversaries like the Lizard, Kraven the Hunter, the newly revealed Sandman, and most notably, Venom. In this rendition, the Venom symbiote initially attaches itself to Peter Parker, leading him down a path of dark vigilante justice, only to eventually find a new host.
Early reviews highlight the game’s ability to simultaneously refine and evolve its gameplay mechanics, narrative, and the overall experience. While some critics have suggested that Spider-Man 2 feels like a refinement rather than a revolution, the consensus is overwhelmingly positive.
Here’s a round-up of all notable reviews of Marvel’s Spider-Man 2:
- COGconnected – 100/100
- CGMagazine – 10/10
- GamesRadar+ – 5/5
- IGN Adria – 10/10
- VGC – 5/5
- VG247 – 5/5
- Inverse – 10/10
- Game Informer – 9.5/10
- Comicbook.com – 4.5/5
- Digital Trend – 4.5/5
- Destructoid – 9/10
- GamingBible – 9/10
- Press Start Australia – 9/10
It looks like the earlier leaked review wasn’t lying. Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 is more of the same, which isn’t a bad thing. It gives audiences a whole lot more as well and then some. Not only does Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 live up to its hype in its gameplay, but the visual experience is also unparalleled. Descriptions of web-swinging through New York City resonate with a consistent note: there is simply no better feeling. With the power of the PlayStation 5, Spider-Man 2 is lauded for providing a rich, visually stunning rendition of New York City that expertly showcases the capabilities of next-gen gaming.
Like all ambitious projects, the game isn’t without minor criticisms. Some point out its somewhat excessive guidance, a particularly distracting aspect in puzzle-solving and navigation. This slight over-direction somewhat detracts from the exhilaration of natural discovery and challenge. However, this concern is dwarfed by the game’s overall achievements in storytelling, world-building, and a tactically diverse combat system.
Insomniac Games, with this release, has undoubtedly crafted an experience that is both emotionally charged and thrilling. Some reviews have even stated that Spider-Man 2 surpasses the previous games in virtually every way, offering players the “ultimate superhero fantasy,” staying true to the developer’s earlier words. The polished, spectacular nature of the game positions it as not just another sequel but as a masterwork that could redefine the superhero video game genre as a whole.
The game’s current Metascore stands impressively at 91 on Metacritic, based on 116 reviews, and has earned “universal acclaim” status. Such a score places Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 on par with some of the year’s most significant gaming hits. However, it’s worth noting that this initial score might slightly fluctuate based on subsequent reviews. Nevertheless, this early acclaim confirms that Insomniac Games has not just met but arguably exceeded expectations. They have delivered a game that beautifully weaves the journeys of its beloved heroes and establishes itself as a benchmark in superhero storytelling.
Suffice to say that Marvel’s Spider-Man 2’s price tag of $70, in line with other first-party exclusives by Sony, is worth the asking price despite the relatively short campaign. It remains to be seen if Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 will be coming to the PC like its predecessors but recent developments suggest that the PC port will be at least two years away.
With its current score on Metacritic, Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 is the best-rated PS5 exclusive so far and second-best-rated first-party AAA title by Sony since the PS5 came out, just right below God of War: Ragnarok at 93.
As gamers and enthusiasts count down to its global release, there’s an overwhelming sense that Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 isn’t just a game but an experience, which promises to be memorable and engaging, showcasing the evolution of video game storytelling.
Simply put, Insomniac Games has once again proven that with great power, they indeed shoulder their responsibility to deliver greatness.
