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

Despite the less-than-stellar reputation surrounding *Amazing Spider-Man*, the world of Friendly Neighborhood comics isn't entirely down in the dumps. In fact, there are several Spider-Man novelisations well worth exploring. From chilling horror and psychological thrillers to lighthearted buddy adventures and even children's stories, these books offer a fresh perspective on the web-slinger, exploring different facets of his character and universe. We'll examine three distinct iterations: the Web of Past, the Web of Dreams, and the Web of Absurd. Let's delve into which resonates most with an Insomniac game.

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Spine-Tingling Spider-Man

Writer: Saladin Ahmed Artist: Juan Ferreira

Spanning 2023 and concluding in 2024, this initially digital-only comic (later reprinted as a one-shot and four-issue limited series) is a must-read. The core concept—a psychedelic descent into madness—is brilliantly executed. Ferreira’s expressive art style, even without dialogue, conveys Peter Parker's anxiety with remarkable clarity. While Ahmed's script is solid, Ferreira's artwork truly steals the show, transforming the narrative into a breathtaking visual spectacle. Paul, the antagonist from the one-shot, uses hypnotic songs to steal dreams, forcing Spider-Man to fight off sleep while battling unsettling visions. The result is a captivating blend of Spider-Man and the style of Junji Ito, a 100-page masterpiece of unsettling visuals.

The limited series pushes the artistic boundaries even further, plunging Spidey into a directed nightmare reminiscent of "Beau Is Afraid," a surreal tapestry of night terrors. From the fear of being unrecognized to the harassment of a creepy conductor, each fear is brought to life with stunning detail. Ferreira masterfully employs a "simple versus detailed" approach, mirroring the techniques of mangaka and Junji Ito. The grotesque monsters are meticulously rendered, drawing the eye, while Peter remains relatively simple, allowing readers to easily empathize with his plight.

Spider-Man: Shadow of the Green Goblin

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

This flashback series reveals the shocking origins of the Proto-Goblin, a character predating Norman Osborn. The story delves into the Osborn family's history, exploring the roots of Norman's descent into madness. DeMatteis, known for his work on *Spectacular Spider-Man*, delivers a dark, psychologically driven narrative. It's a prequel exploring the events leading up to Harry Osborn's tragic fate, showcasing DeMatteis's mastery of character development and storytelling.

The Proto-Goblin, a relatively obscure character, is brought to life with surprising depth. The story focuses on the human element, showcasing the gradual descent into darkness experienced by the Osborn family. The comic effectively fills the gaps between classic issues, allowing readers to connect with the characters on a more personal level. While the general decline in interest in flashback stories may have overshadowed this gem, *Shadow of the Green Goblin* remains a must-read for any serious Spider-Man fan.

Spider-Man: Reign 2

Writer/Artist: Kaare Andrews

More of a reimagining than a sequel, *Reign 2* picks up where the first installment left off. A broken, aged Peter Parker finds himself in a digital dream world, only to have his illusion shattered by Kitty Cat, a young thief. The story involves time travel, a cyberpunk Kingpin, and a surprisingly dark take on Venom. Andrews' art style is visceral and brutal, depicting a level of violence rarely seen in Spider-Man comics. The story's themes of regret and redemption resonate powerfully, culminating in a cathartic conclusion.

Andrews' signature style, evident in *Iron Fist: The Living Weapon*, is on full display. The raw emotion and graphic violence are not for the faint of heart, but the story's emotional core is undeniable. The comic is a dark, intense ride, exploring the consequences of Spider-Man's actions and the burden he carries. While unconventional, *Reign 2* offers a unique and unforgettable Spider-Man experience.