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

Despite the negativity surrounding *Amazing Spider-Man*, the Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man comics aren't entirely down in the dumps. Several Spider-Man novelizations are worth recommending, offering a diverse range of stories: horror, psychological drama, buddy-movie adventures, children's tales, and even the end and rebirth of Spidey himself. These can be categorized into three iterations: Web of Past, Web of Dreams, and Web of Absurd. Let's explore which resonates with Insomniac's games.

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Spine-Tingling Spider-Man

Writer: Saladin Ahmed Artist: Juan Ferreira

Spanning 2023 and 2024, Spine-Tingling Spider-Man initially launched digitally before a print one-shot (#0) and a four-issue limited series. The comic masterfully utilizes psychedelic visuals to immerse the reader in Spider-Man's nightmarish experiences. Ferreira's expressive art shines, conveying emotion even without dialogue, overshadowing even Ahmed's strong script. The story centers on Peter's anxiety, amplified by unsettling visions as he battles an antagonist, Paul, who uses song to steal dreams. This creates a unique blend reminiscent of a Junji Ito-inspired Spider-Man tale.

The limited series further elevates the art, with Spidey literally trapped in a directed nightmare, evoking the feeling of Ari Aster's "Beau Is Afraid." Ferreira expertly employs a "simple vs. detailed" approach, common in manga and Junji Ito's work, focusing on hyper-detailed monstrous faces contrasted with a simple, terrified Peter Parker.

Spider-Man: Shadow of the Green Goblin

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

This flashback series reveals the surprising origins of the Proto-Goblin, exploring his connection to the Osborn family and young Peter Parker's early struggles. It's a classic DeMatteis story, showcasing his mastery of dark, psychological drama. Considered by many to be among the best Spider-Man comics ever, it serves as a prequel to Harry Osborn's arc in Spectacular Spider-Man, delving into the roots of the Green Goblin's evil.

The story focuses on the slow descent of the Osborn family into darkness, highlighting the psychological torment that fuels Norman's villainy. Despite its flashback format, it stands out as a compelling and melancholic tale, a must-read for fans of Spectacular Spider-Man.

Spider-Man: Reign 2

Writer/Artist: Kaare Andrews

More of a remake than a sequel, Reign 2 restarts the story from the beginning, offering a new take on the dystopian world of the first Reign. It's a brutal, violent story featuring a broken, older Peter Parker navigating a zombie-infested, dome-enclosed New York City. The comic's style is reminiscent of Batman: The Dark Knight Strikes Again and Andrews' Iron Fist: The Living Weapon, emphasizing raw emotion and unflinching violence.

Expect time travel, unique Goblin designs, and a shocking twist involving Venom. Andrews' art style is gritty and intense, depicting Spider-Man's most severe injuries yet. The story serves as a dark reflection on the burdens of heroism, ultimately culminating in Peter's cathartic release from the past.