Far from being one of PlayStation’s most prolific studios, Insomniac Games has finally released the sequel to its 2018 Marvel’s Spider-Man on PS4. While we were introduced to a chapter focusing on Miles Morales in 2020 for the PS5 launch, it was primarily transitional both narratively and in terms of gameplay, essentially functioning as a DLC expanded into a full game. This time, Californian developers are expected to take a significant step forward, with great promises starting with Venom being the main antagonist, and Kraven the Hunter, another antagonist who must awaken the dormant beast within Peter Parker. And what about gameplay? Has the formula been sufficiently updated to elevate the experience? Spoiler: yes, absolutely.
Let us be honest; Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 adheres closely to the formula and foundation of its predecessor but pushes the boundaries to their limits, giving players a sense that they are rediscovering the series. A notable change in this sequel is its pace, which is relentless from the character selection screen through to the conclusion of the story. It is hard to put down, always compelling players to continue and find out what happens next in Peter and Miles’ adventures. Insomniac Games has successfully mastered the art of keeping a player engaged throughout their original narrative. Whether you are a comic book reader or an MCU fan, you will encounter a reinterpretation of Spider-Man’s mythos here, grounded in familiar elements yet imbued with Insomniac’s unique touch—a perspective that has been regarded as one of the most intriguing for quite some time. This distinctive approach was evident in the first installment, where the studio dared to deviate from well-known comic book storylines, and they continue to surprise us with their creativity.
A PLENTY OF VILLAINS
For instance, Venom is by far the most unconventional character in the game, but one that we would have preferred to see in a movie rather than the awkward portrayal Sony Pictures presented with Tom Hardy severely underweight. In Insomniac Games’ game, Venom is truly MONSTER-IOUS! His storyline, treatment, power, and ferocity – Insomniac Games has shown respect for the character like never before. It is both comic-accurate and exceeds expectations as the developers have added their own unique touch, reminiscent of real comic books. Therefore, a message to all Marvel Studios executives, including Kevin Feige and everyone working on the MCU: take notes! Find inspiration in this game, hire personnel from Insomniac Games; they understand Spider-Man, his universe, characters – what fans of the web-slinger desire. Furthermore, it is pleasing to note that Venom is not the only character receiving high-quality treatment. Kraven the Hunter also exudes charisma and possesses a massive physique aligning more closely with Aaron Taylor Johnson’s athletic build in Sony Pictures’ upcoming film. The juvenile look in the movie struggles to lend credibility to the character, whereas here we encounter a genuine hulk, complete with a deep, authoritative voice commanding respect, not joking around, and instilling fear simply by being present. He drives the game’s narrative, closely followed by Scorpion, with Venom joining later on. As for villains, rest assured you won’t be disappointed; there is an abundance of antagonists enriching the story, though their screen time varies among the three main ones.
A SPECTACULAR SHOW
Another aspect where this sequel significantly raises the bar is in its presentation, which is exceptionally impressive. Whether it involves numerous cutscenes, integrating special moves into gameplay, or incorporating quick-time events, you are treated to a visually stunning experience. The camera consistently captures the perfect angle to imbue grandeur, dynamism, and sometimes even drama into the action it aims to elevate. The presentation work truly stands out as a masterclass, without any understatement. This flair for spectacle complements gameplay that is both accessible and challenging. Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 carries over mechanics from the first game but introduces several nuances that enhance combat engagement. For instance, there’s a counter system activated by pressing the L1 button at the right moment, akin to Souls-like games. Players must trigger these counters when a red dot appears on an enemy about to launch a powerful attack. Conversely, blue attacks must be dodged as they can result in significant damage if not avoided.
Another point where this sequel truly excels is in its spectacular presentation. Whether it is through the numerous cinematics, integrated special attacks within gameplay, or a few quick-time events, you are treated to a visually stunning experience. The camera consistently captures the perfect angle to imbue grandeur, dynamism, and sometimes even drama into the action it aims to elevate. The level of presentation is truly a masterclass, without any exaggeration. This flair for spectacle is complemented by gameplay that is both mainstream yet demanding. Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 carries over mechanics from the first game but introduces numerous subtleties to make combat more engaging. To start, there is a counter system initiated by pressing the L1 button at just the right timing, reminiscent of Souls-like games. These counters must be triggered when a red dot appears over an enemy preparing a powerful attack. Conversely, clear blue attacks must be dodged to avoid taking heavy damage.
Peter and Miles now have 8 abilities, divided into four powers and four gadgets, which can be seen at the bottom of the screen on either side. Depending on whether the gauges are filled or not, one can use them during a combo to increase possibilities and enhance efficiency. There is also the well-known “Rage” mode triggered by pressing L3 and R3 simultaneously, allowing Peter—and Miles—to enter a nearly invincible state where each attack defeats enemies with dedicated animations without disrupting the combat flow, maintaining intensity. Enemies have become more substantial; failing to retreat from an encounter can result in death due to their numbers. As in the first episode, adversaries are grouped into clans for identification purposes, which we will not name to maintain suspense. Some appear towards the end of the game and through certain side quests, contributing to a diverse bestiary throughout the adventure.
Among the arguments that enhance the Spider-Man 2 experience is the movement of our two spiders. It was already thrilling in the first game with this sense of freedom, and it’s even more refined in this sequel which introduces web wings and a wingsuit mode that allows for more efficient overflights of New York. There are air currents set up in various parts of the city to gain speed, making zipping between buildings at full tilt quite satisfying. To the point where we never used a single fast travel option in the game, which are easily accessible. In fact, it’s such a pleasure to swing with the webs and traverse New York with this exemplary fluidity that we navigated like a true man-spider.
Peter? Miles? Both at once?
Marvel’s Spider-Man 2, developed by Insomniac Games, features the playable characters Peter Parker and Miles Morales, allowing players to switch between them instantly in the open world. However, this ability is restricted based on specific scenarios during the main storyline. Once the solo campaign is completed, players can freely alternate between Peter and Miles without any limitations, although it’s important to note that certain missions and side quests are designated for only one character or the other. If a player encounters an incompatible situation, the game will automatically prompt a character swap if the required character is not currently selected.
From afar, Insomniac Games, one of the most prolific studios at PlayStation, has finally delivered the sequel to their 2018 Marvel’s Spider-Man title for PS4. Following a 2020 episode focused on Miles Morales that marked the transition to PS5, expectations are high this time around. The new game introduces Venom as the primary antagonist and Kraven the Hunter, who seeks to awaken the beast within Peter Parker. But how does the gameplay fare? Has it been sufficiently overhauled to elevate the experience? Spoiler: Yes, absolutely!
Let’s now discuss the graphics and game mechanics. Despite some doubts expressed on social media, Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 is not merely an update of the first game; it has significantly expanded in scope. The textures are finer, character modeling, especially for non-player characters (NPCs), has improved, visual effects, lighting, and reflections are better controlled, but most importantly, New York is absolutely stunning. The city teems with life, bustling with people and traffic; while impressive from the air, ground level reveals the meticulous work of the developers. Insomniac Games understands that New York is a character in itself within the Spider-Man mythos, whereas the “Miles Morales” DLC focused on Harlem, Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 opens up to all of Manhattan’s neighborhoods, including Queens, which was notably absent in previous episodes.
A PHENOMENAL VOICEOVER
I will conclude this review by mentioning the French dub, expertly handled by Donald Reignoux, who remains at ease when embodying Peter Parker, his favorite character. Donald delivers an outstanding performance, adeptly navigating various emotions, from lighter moments to more dramatic sequences. Given that the tone of Spider-Man 2 is darker and more mature, both Donald and all the other voice actors have demonstrated their talents admirably. While I praised Donald Reignoux’s performance, it is also important to commend Grégory Lerigab for his flawless portrayal of Miles Morales in this sequel. He takes over from Eilias Changuel, who voiced the young teenager in the first episode and the DLC Miles Morales. To be frank, it was a bit unfortunate that he replaced him, but in reality, Grégory Lerigab did an incredible job with the role. Overall, the entire voice cast deserves recognition for bringing each character to life in the game, which I felt compelled to highlight.
