5 Must-Read Spider-Man Comics Before the Spider-Verse Sequel

With the release of Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse just around the corner, fans of the animated masterpiece Into the Spider-Verse may be curious to explore the comics that inspired this highly anticipated sequel. While there have been numerous Spider-Man comics over the past six decades, not all of them are relevant to the story of Across the Spider-Verse. To help fans get started, we have compiled a list of comics that feature characters from the upcoming film or share thematic similarities, all of which are must-reads for any Spider-Verse enthusiast.

Ultimate Spider-Man

The Spider-Verse movies revolve around parallel universes that deviate from the Marvel Universe, setting the stage for this list's first entry. Ultimate Spider-Man, created by Brian Michael Bendis and Mark Bagley in 2000, is a well-known alternate universe story and is widely regarded as one of the best Spider-Man runs in comic book history. The series has been lauded for its 160-issue epic that distills the entire Spider-Man mythos and features exceptional art from Bagley, Stuart Immonen, and Sara Pichelli. Bendis' skillful characterization of Peter, his supporting cast, and his rogues' gallery also earn high praise.

Ultimate Spider-Man rose to fame with its 2011 relaunch, Ultimate Comics Spider-Man, which unveiled Miles Morales to the world. Following the demise of Peter Parker by the hands of the Green Goblin, Miles Morales, a Brooklyn teenager, takes on the role of Spider-Man to continue Peter's legacy. However, he discovers that his uncle Aaron secretly operates as the supervillain Prowler. The impact of Miles' original comic run on Into the Spider-Verse is evident to those who have watched the latter. While some fans argue that Bendis' work with Miles is unexciting compared to his earlier storylines, Miles' character shines through the hands of other creators like the Into the Spider-Verse team. For those interested in exploring the most significant comic influence on the Spider-Verse films, Ultimate Spider-Man is a must-read.

Spider-Verse

Peter Parker's multiversal adventures have been popularized in the Spider-Verse comic crossover written by Dan Slott in 2014. This storyline features a cross-dimensional alliance of Spideys including Miles, Peter, Spider-Man Noir, Spider-Ham, and newly introduced characters like Spider-Gwen and Peni Parker, joining forces to fight against the vampiric Inheritors. Despite criticisms for its one-dimensional villains, poor worldbuilding, and killing off fan-favorite characters, it has some fun moments and well-written character interactions. Furthermore, it introduces several characters who will make their debut in the upcoming movie Across the Spider-Verse, making it an enjoyable read for anyone looking to delve into the origins of the Spider-Verse.

Superior Spider-Man

Slott's previous work, The Superior Spider-Man, is considered one of the greatest modern Spider-Man storylines. The series centers around Doctor Octopus, who takes over Peter Parker's body and becomes the new Spider-Man. Although he strives to be a hero, Otto's methods involve ruthless and authoritarian tactics to protect New York. The storyline showcases the protagonist's journey of discovering the true meaning of being Spider-Man. With Miguel O'Hara, the Spider-Man of 2099, in a supporting role, this comic is a must-read for those interested in learning more about him before his upcoming movie debut. As the name suggests, The Superior Spider-Man is an exceptional read.

Dead No More: The Clone Conspiracy

In the upcoming film, Across the Spider-Verse, Miles may find himself risking the multiverse to save his father's life, which could provoke the anger of Spider-Man 2099. This high-stakes decision showcases the duality of a Spider-Man's character, where their desire to save lives can both be a strength and a weakness. This concept is exemplified in the 2016 miniseries Dead No More: The Clone Conspiracy, where Peter confronts his clone, Ben Reilly (aka the Scarlet Spider), who is fixated on bringing back every person that Spider-Man has failed to save.

Spider-Man: Life Story

The Dead No More storyline may have sparked some controversy among fans due to the portrayal of Ben Reilly as an antagonist, but it cannot be denied that it effectively highlights Spider-Man's unwavering sense of responsibility. Peter Parker's determination to save everyone is a defining trait that makes him a remarkable hero, but it also has the potential to push him towards a darker path. This theme might also be explored in Across the Spider-Verse, where Miles Morales faces similar challenges. Moreover, fans of Spider-Verse will also be delighted to see Spider-Gwen in a supporting role in this comic.

In the 2019 miniseries Spider-Man: Life Story, writer Chip Zdarsky and artist Mark Bagley take readers on a journey through Peter Parker's life, from his teenage years in the 1960s to his seasoned heroism in the 2010s. Set in an alternate universe where Marvel characters age in real time, the series offers a fresh take on classic storylines such as "Kraven's Last Hunt," Civil War, Superior Spider-Man, and even the infamous Clone Saga. Through impeccable characterization, Zdarsky presents Peter's strengths and flaws in equal measure, making for a captivating and dynamic read.

Life Story is a heartfelt tribute to the Spider-Man universe, crafted by a team of skilled creators. Though it draws inspiration from various Spider-Man comics, the story is self-sufficient and can be enjoyed by comic book novices. Out of all the Spider-Man comics that exist, Life Story stands out as a shining example of why Spider-Man is such an iconic superhero. It's an essential read for every Spider-Man enthusiast.