We are going to heal the world.

In 2018 Insomniac Games released “Spider-Man”, A PlayStation exclusive that redefined the notion of what superhero Video Games could be. They then followed with 2020’s spinoff, “Miles Morales” a solo story featuring Peter Parker’s young protege, that remixed and enhanced the main fundamentals that made the first title so engrossing in the first place. Now, the moment we’ve all been waiting for has arrived: “Spider-Man 2,” one of the most anticipated video game titles in history. Let’s find out why this title has exceeded all expectations and then some, on Gaber’s Two Cents.

The foundation set in the previous games were already rock solid. With fluid web-slinging mechanics that make traversing through New York a breeze, and combat that allows you to feel the power and agility of the title character, most were left wondering what more insomniac games could do to elevate player experience.

Thankfully, we no longer have to wonder. Spider-Man 2 not only retains what made it special in the first place, but took the feedback from the original, and revised the more tedious aspects within the games several stealth and puzzle sections. In doing this, they have creative more intuitive haptic feedback features that allow the player to feel as if they are actually completing actions within this world.

For example, there are a handful of sections where both Spider-Men must break objects to reveal secret information inside. In doing this one must hold both of the trigger inputs, while fighting some kickback from the controller itself. A tiny detail for sure, but it does an excellent job of showcasing the strength that each Spider-Man contains. It also turns what should be tedious run of the mill tasks into something to look forward to.

The same goes for the puzzle sections as well. The puzzles within the first game weren’t awful by any means, but they led my mind astray when attempting to solve them. I would ask myself, “Why am I doing this when I could be swinging around looking for crime?”. They would be so tedious to the point where I would purposefully input the wrong answers so the game would solve the puzzle for me.

Once again, Insomniac Games took these complaints and made an entirely new puzzle system that is simple, yet brain-boosting. With a rotating UI representing molecule functions, and three sets of shapes corresponding to various cellular structures, it makes for a puzzle that is not overly complicated but satisfying as well.

Another concern was how Insomniac could improve upon the traversal mechanics within the first game. Diving off of skyscrapers and swinging through heavy traffic was already a blast. With most complaints related to the representation of speed on display. Now, with the newly included glide mechanic, all previous qualms on the issue have been thrown to the wayside.

Building on this remarkable speed, the glide mechanic doesn’t just impress; it astounds. With the built-up momentum of a dive or swing, one can simply press the glide button on a whim and use their built-up kinetic energy to soar above the streets of New York. It’s not only cinematic but provides the player with a surplus of traversal options in exploring the city that never sleeps.

The movement is so good in fact, that it makes playing the previous games almost unbearable. Which is saying something, since the previous titles movement mechanics were already some of the best I have ever experienced. It just goes to show how much thought and care were put into arguably Spider-Man’s most popular ability.

One occasional hiccup from the first game, ‘Spider-Man (2018),’ was the overabundance of corniness when it came to Peter’s one-liners. While Peter undoubtedly has a corny persona by nature, some of his dialogue would lead to cringe inducing eye rolling rather than laughter. Thankfully voice actor Yuri Lowenthal, the voice of Spidey, gives a performance that triumphs over his previous efforts. Whether it be from the slightly more mature tone, or the excellent quips thrown out during battle, Lowenthal’s performance only gives more credence to the simulation of playing as Spider-Man.

With Lowenthal’s excellent portrayal, it’s only right that the story fits the bill as well. For the most part, it succeeds in this aspect, offering a fast-paced and engrossing narrative. However, there are some major variations to comic lore that could upend more diehard fan expectations. Personally, I’ve found a few interpretations a bit off, particularly when it comes to Harry Osborn and his connection with the symbiote. Without delving into spoilers, these departures, while a bit odd, aren’t destructive enough to sink the experience. The story is dynamic and compelling, and the more you play, the more it grows on you.

Studios should take a page from Insomniac Games’s playbook when it comes to building upon successful established titles. Spider-Man 2 is the epitome of what a sequel should be in this gaming generation. It stands as a shining example that other studios will undoubtedly seek to emulate. From its exhilarating gameplay to its stunning graphics and immersive storytelling, Spider-Man 2 is a gem that raises the bar for the industry. If you haven’t had the chance to pick it up, don’t miss out on the web-swinging adventure of a lifetime. Give Spider-Man 2 a try and experience gaming excellence at its finest.

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