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To call the PlayStation 5 a “next generation console” in 2023 now that the PlayStation 4 is no longer the standard feels a bit strange. There is always some ambiguity as a console is released and the old one is phased out, however the PlayStation 5 is now three years old so it should probably be more accurately referred to as the current generation console. Regardless, a good amount of games (probably the vast majority) that have come out on the most recent PlayStation and Xbox consoles have not felt like experiences that needed to be on these newest consoles or took full advantage of the hardware. Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 has bucked this trend fantastically and delivered a true “next generation” experience that could not have happened on a PlayStation 4.
Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 picks up after both Marvel’s Spider-Man and Spider-Man: Miles Morales (both available on the PlayStation 5 and PC though Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 is not available on PC at this time) and tells the continuing adventures of New York’s Spider-Men as they do battle against Venom. Details will be kept to a minimum on the plot because there are some spoilers and some turns that are unlike anything seen in the previous comic.
The storytelling standards are up to par with what one would expect from this series, which makes it an enjoyable experience outside of just the fantastic gameplay. As mentioned earlier, there are a few deviations from the existing canon of Spider-Man tropes that are interesting changes, though some comic fans may bump into them if they are looking for a more faithful adaptation. The pacing is also pretty strong and there are no moments like the stealth levels from the first game to drag down the experience which really makes the game feel more action-packed.
The real shining aspect of this game is the way it makes use of the full power of the PlayStation 5 and the Duelsense. The haptic feedback in the controller is used fantastically and the rumble adds to the experience. The processing power of the PlayStation 5 is easy to see with the complete lack of load times with fast travel and the fluidity of both the combat and traversal mechanics when playing as both Peter Parker and Miles Morales. The flight controls for the wingsuit are fantastic and are some of the best flying mechanics in a video game. The technical achievement of this game in and of itself makes it worth buying, which should come as no surprise since Insomniac has been pushing the boundaries for a long time, including Rachet and Clank: Rift Apart which is also on PlayStation 5.
If someone is looking for a game to pair with a new game console this holiday season, the best option on the table is Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 with a PlayStation 5. It sets a standard going forward for what players should come to expect from major first-party releases and hopefully, more games can use the sheer might of these consoles to the extent of their hardware limitations. If there is anything negative to the game, it is that it can feel a little short once one has completed everything possible to 100 percent, however hopefully New Game+ and DLC will reinvigorate the game in the future.
Final Rating: 9/10
