Summary
Though theMarvel’s Spider-Manfranchise has aimed to tell its own stories, the influence of all kinds of Spidey media can be felt throughout Insomniac’s series, and that includes comics. While the webslinger has had a rough time in recent comic book releases, with plenty of controversy aroundcharacters like Paul, there have been many great stories told about the friendly neighborhood hero over the years. One of those tales is Superior Spider-Man, a run with a strange premise that resulted in one of the very best takes on Doc Ock. If it wants to, Insomniac putting its own spin on Superior Spider-Man could make for a memorable “Final Chapter” in its ongoing saga.
The biggest issue with retelling Superior Spider-Man will be making its setup believable enough for audiences, as the comics see Doctor Octopus taking over Peter Parker’s body when his own starts to fail him. With Insomniac’s version of Otto losing control of his motor functions, he could have the necessary motivation to want a new body, though it is hard to imagine a Freaky Friday scenario being believable in Insomniac’s universe. While body swapping may be a step too far even in a world where aliens and the Avengers exist, if Insomniac does want to attempt it, it should have Otto take control of Harry Osborn instead of Peter Parker in the nextMarvel’s Spider-Man.
Why Harry Would Be a Better Host For Doc Ock Than Peter
Having an Evil Peter In Two Games Would Be Redundant
One big issue with adapting Superior Spider-Man withinInsomniac’s universeis that the developer only just tackled the Symbiote inMarvel’s Spider-Man 2. Miles saving Peter from himself made for great storytelling, but the young hero needing to fight a corrupt version of his mentor for the second game in a row would surely lead to a disappointing narrative that feels overly familiar to fans. Plus, with Insomniac introducing Silk and stating that Miles will be the main Spidey in the games going forward, players’ time with Peter may be limited. IfMarvel’s Spider-Man 3is his last appearance, Peter himself should be present throughout the game, not a villain inside his body.
A Fight Against an Otto-Controlled Harry Would Be Incredibly Emotional
However, though Peter Parker becomingSuperior Spider-Manwould be a poor idea, that does not mean that the Superior story in general has to be avoided. Instead, Doc Ock could take full advantage of the Harry Osborn situation. Currently, Harry is comatose, with Norman Osborn demanding the G-Serum to hopefully heal his son. If Otto Octavius escapes prison, he could take over the body of Harry Osborn after Harry has been given the G-Serum, giving him superpowers and allowing him to either ruin Peter’s life or seek redemption by trying to be a better Spider-Man like he did in the comics.
Otto Octaviusovertaking Harry Osborn would not only be a way to torment Peter Parker, but also Norman Osborn, who he hates more than anyone. Otto could threaten Harry’s safety if Norman opposes him, allowing him to manipulate his former friend.
Marvel’s Spider-Man 3could see Peter Parker realizing that something is wrong withHarry Osborn, spotting a personality shift in his former friend after Otto has taken over his mind. The story could build to an intense finale where Peter essentially needs to fight Harry and Doc Ock at the same time, combining the two final boss battles from the previous games into one emotional encounter. Insomniac has not been afraid to put its Peter through the ringer, so forcing him to beat down his mentor, who is in the body of his best friend, would be par for the course. Regardless of whether Superior Spider-Man is redeemed at the end of the story, or killed off during his boss fight, making him Harry Osborn instead of Peter Parker could lead to interesting storytelling. Miles fighting Peter proved a Spider-Man vs. Spider-Man fight can deliver, and a Superior version of Harry could tie several plot threats together.
Marvel’s Spider-Man 2
WHERE TO PLAY
Spider-Men Peter Parker and Miles Morales face the ultimate test of strength inside and outside the mask as they fight to save the city, each other and the ones they love, from the monstrous Venom and the dangerous new symbiote threat.Explore an expansive Marvel’s New York with faster web-swinging and the all-new Web Wings, quickly switching between Peter and Miles to experience different stories, epic new abilities and high-tech gear.Wield Peter’s symbiote abilities and Miles’ explosive bio-electric powers in battle against new and iconic Marvel Super Villains – including an original take on a symbiote-infused Venom, the ruthless Kraven the Hunter, the volatile Lizard, and more from the Marvel Rogues’ Gallery.
