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

Dive into the captivating world of Spider-Man novelizations! Despite the mixed reception of Amazing Spider-Man, these compelling stories offer a refreshing take on the web-slinger. From chilling horror and psychological thrillers to lighthearted adventures and a poignant exploration of Spidey's journey, these narratives present a diverse range of experiences.

We'll explore three distinct iterations: the nightmarish "Web of Past," the nostalgic "Web of Dreams," and the chaotic "Web of Absurd." Let's examine 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

Initially a digital release, this captivating tale, spanning 2023-2024, blends psychedelic horror with stunning visuals. Ferreira's expressive art style takes center stage, conveying emotion even without dialogue. Ahmed's script complements the artwork perfectly, capturing Peter Parker's anxieties.

The narrative centers on Paul, a villain who steals dreams through song, forcing Spider-Man to fight off sleep while battling unsettling visions. The limited edition expands on this, plunging Spidey into a directed nightmare reminiscent of "Beau Is Afraid," showcasing a range of fears, from social anxieties to encounters with menacing figures.

Ferreira masterfully employs a "simple vs. detailed" approach, similar to Junji Ito's work, highlighting monstrous figures against a backdrop of a simpler, relatable Spider-Man. This contrast effectively amplifies the horror and suspense.

Spider-Man: Shadow of the Green Goblin

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

This flashback series delves into the origins of the Green Goblin, revealing a startling pre-Norman Osborn villain, the Proto-Goblin. DeMatteis's masterful storytelling showcases his signature dark, psychological approach, reminiscent of Dostoyevsky's style.

The story explores the deep trauma of Harry Osborn, foreshadowing his eventual fate as the Green Goblin. It's a prequel that examines the roots of evil within the Osborn family, showcasing a gradual descent into darkness.

The Proto-Goblin, a relatively obscure character, is expertly woven into the narrative, highlighting the slow burn of evil and the impact on Peter Parker and his surroundings. This overlooked gem is a must-read for fans of DeMatteis's work and a powerful addition to the Spider-Man mythos.

Spider-Man: Reign 2

Writer/Artist: Kaare Andrews

More of a remake than a sequel, this installment finds an aged, broken Peter Parker in a dystopian New York City. The narrative shares similarities with "Batman: The Dark Knight Strikes Again," presenting a grim and violent depiction of the hero.

Andrews' signature style, reminiscent of his work on "Iron Fist: The Living Weapon," is on full display. The story is characterized by intense violence, graphic imagery, and a focus on Peter's unrelenting struggle.

Time travel, bizarre characters, and over-the-top action are all part of this wild ride. While not for the faint of heart, "Reign 2" offers a unique and intense Spider-Man experience, showcasing the hero pushed to his absolute limits. It's a powerful exploration of trauma and the burden of heroism.