Despite the negativity surrounding Amazing Spider-Man, the Friendly Neighborhood comics aren't entirely down. Here are several Spider-Man novelisations worth recommending, offering horror, psychological drama, buddy-movie adventures, children's stories, and even Spidey's end and new beginning. Three distinct iterations are explored: Web of Past, Web of Dreams, and Web of Absurd. Let's examine which resonates 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

Published primarily in 2023, concluding in 2024, this title is exceptional. Initially a digital comic, it was reprinted as a print one-shot (#0), followed by a four-issue limited series. The concept is simple yet effective: a talented artist immerses the hero in a psychedelic descent into madness. Ferreira's expressive art is easily understood, even without dialogue, overshadowing even Ahmed's strong script. The narrative effectively conveys Peter's anxiety. Paul, the antagonist from the one-shot, uses song to steal dreams, forcing Spider-Man to fight sleep despite unsettling visions. The result is a captivating blend of Spider-Man and the style of Junji Ito.

The limited series showcases even more inventive artwork. Spidey experiences a directed nightmare, reminiscent of "Beau Is Afraid," with a series of interconnected terrors, from fear of social rejection to harassment by a creepy conductor.

The art employs a "simple vs. detailed" approach, similar to mangaka and Junji Ito's work. Monsters are meticulously rendered, while the protagonist remains simple, allowing for audience identification. Ferreira masterfully contrasts hypertrophied monstrous faces with a modest, terrified Peter.

Spider-Man: Shadow of the Green Goblin

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

This comic reveals a pre-Norman Osborn Goblin! It explores the Proto-Goblin's secrets, his connection to the Osbornes, and young Peter's role in the unfolding events.

This flashback series leverages the formula of revisiting a character's past with the original author, creating a "lost" story. While the quality of flashbacks has varied, this stands out.

"Shadow of the Green Goblin" reminds us of DeMatteis' mastery of Spider-Man, surpassing even "Kraven's Last Hunt." It's a dark, psychologically driven narrative, akin to a Spider-Man story written by Dostoevsky. It delves into Harry Osborn's trauma and the origins of the Green Goblin's evil, showcasing the family's descent into darkness.

The Proto-Goblin, a relatively obscure character, is effectively utilized. The comic fills the gaps between classic issues, allowing the characters to shed their superhero identities and become ordinary people. The Green Goblin's evil is not sudden but a gradual culmination of family dysfunction. Despite the decline in interest in flashback stories, this comic is a hidden gem.

Spider-Man: Reign 2

Writer/Artist: Kaare Andrews

New York City is ruled by Kingpin, protected by an electric dome to keep out zombies. An aged Peter Parker, killed by his radioactive sperm, finds himself in a digital dream with Mary Jane, disrupted by Kitty Pryde. To avert disaster, they journey through time.

This isn't a true sequel but more of a remake. Andrews restarts the narrative, so familiarity with the first "Reign" isn't essential. It's a grim depiction of a broken Peter.

Andrews' style, reminiscent of "Iron Fist: The Living Weapon," is evident: brutal violence, a significant young female character, graphic scenes of death, and unrestrained hatred.

The comic features time travel, young Goblins, a cybernetic Kingpin, and a shocking Venom storyline. Andrews excels at depicting violence, showcasing Spider-Man's most severe injuries. It's a catastrophic version of Spider-Man overwhelmed by his responsibilities, ultimately finding release in the past.