I have a deep admiration for Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 and all of Insomniac’s previous interpretations of the Spider-Man universe. However, I’ve reached a point where swinging around New York City has become tiresome, and it would be a disservice to remain confined to this setting.
Spider-Man 2 undeniably stands out as another remarkable addition to Insomniac Games’ already impressive portfolio of award-winning titles. Insomniac has a track record of delivering polished and enjoyable games while playing it relatively safe. Their Spyro the Dragon and Ratchet & Clank series serve as prime examples of this approach.
With the release of Spider-Man 2, however, this safety approach seems to have backfired a bit, as the latest Spider-Man game grapples with repetitiveness. I’m concerned that if future Spider-Man 2 sequels fail to deviate from the familiar formula, it could risk alienating fans.
Spider-Man 2’s New York is still just New York
In Spider-Man 2, New York has been expanded, featuring new locations like Coney Island, which I found particularly enjoyable, especially the sections involving Peter, MJ, and Harry bonding. However, it’s still largely the same New York we’ve already explored in the first two games.
Having not ventured into Insomniac’s Spider-Man universe since completing Miles Morales in 2020, the first few hours of Spider-Man 2 brought back the excitement as I effortlessly swung through the city, executed impressive maneuvers at dizzying heights, and moved at exhilarating speeds.
However, after ten hours, the recycled environment became tiresome. Swinging through Manhattan and Greenwich can only remain exciting for so long before it starts to feel like something I’ve done extensively before. Passing by the Empire State Building no longer feels special, and the Avengers Tower, while a nice fan service touch, doesn’t offer much more than that.
Repetition risks ruining reinvigoration
For newcomers to the Spider-Man games, this setting is a fresh experience. Unfortunately, for many players, including myself, it’s a return to a well-trodden path.
Despite the addition of a new story, activities, side missions, superpowers, dual-Spider-Man gameplay, and more, the sequel does expand upon the first two entries in the Spider-Man series. Yet, I can’t help but lament the repetitive setting. Can we truly endure a fourth playthrough of a revamped New York? Players will spend even more time in the city with the arrival of New Game Plus, further diminishing the allure of New York. It begs the question: when should we question the creativity behind this repetitive backdrop?
Even if the Avengers or Fantastic Four become part of the storyline later on, as hinted at through Easter Eggs, would it merely be another compelling narrative arc skimming over the fundamental issue?
Spider-Man 3 needs to take us Far From Home
I wouldn’t classify myself as a die-hard fan, but I’m aware that Spider-Man has ventured beyond New York’s boundaries before. London, Italy, the Czech Republic: Spider-Man: Far From Home explored these European locations in 2019, deviating from the geographical norm of the Spidey franchise, and fans loved it!
The precedent for Spider-Man’s international adventures has been set, and the source material is available. It might be time to take Spider-Man on a journey outside of New York. Can you imagine Peter and Miles swinging around iconic landmarks like Big Ben?
One thing is clear: Insomniac has laid a solid foundation for Spider-Man. The world, characters, and the return of iconic villains have all contributed to the series’ success and familiarity. Yet, Insomniac must avoid becoming complacent. In 2015, after releasing Batman: Arkham Knight, Rocksteady Studios concluded its Arkham series, feeling it had reached its creative limits.
I don’t believe we’ve exhausted Spider-Man’s potential. At the very least, there’s room for one more adventure, perhaps an international, crime-fighting journey for Peter and Miles. I might still enjoy Spider-Man 3 if it sticks with its New York setting, but I fear it could provoke more backlash than a Jonah Jameson-sized rant.