Comparing Spider-Man 2 with Kraven's Last Hunt

Highlights

While Marvel's Spider-Man 2 references various Spidey comics, shows, and movies, it doesn't rely too heavily on Kraven's Last Hunt.

The character of Kraven in Spider-Man 2 by Insomniac differs from his portrayal in Kraven's Last Hunt, with a notably distinct ending.

Spider-Man boasts an extensive gallery of villains, making it one of the most remarkable in the history of superheroes. Over the past 60+ years, each villain has been given their own moment to shine. While devoted Spidey fans will have their preferred comic runs that they believe truly exemplify each villain, there are a select few that are considered immensely influential and should not be overlooked. To fully understand the Green Goblin, one must read the original Night That Gwen Stacy Died storyline. Venom's Separation Anxiety run is essential for fans seeking a deep understanding of the character. Doc Ock's Superior Spider-Man comic is likewise paramount. Lastly, Kraven the Hunter's most definitive tale is Kraven's Last Hunt, a narrative that Marvel's Spider-Man 2 could have easily embraced.

The Story of Kraven's Last Hunt

Marvel's Spider-Man 2 cleverly incorporates elements from the extensive history of the Symbiote suit and Venom storyline. The game draws inspiration from the rich collection of comics, TV shows, and movies that preceded it, effortlessly referencing lines of dialogue, cinematic camera angles, and character matchups in specific arenas. While paying homage to past Spider-Man narratives, Marvel's Spider-Man 2 wisely avoids relying too heavily on Kraven's Last Hunt, resulting in a refreshing take on this iconic Spidey arc.

First released in 1987, Kraven's Last Hunt originally consisted of six parts, serving as a mostly standalone narrative that intersected with three different Spider-Man comic storylines at the time, and with good reason. Widely recognized as the definitive Kraven tale, Kraven's Last Hunt takes place shortly after the demise of Ned Leeds and commences with Spider-Man contemplating whether he is truly doing enough for his loved ones. Spider-Man's introspection is abruptly halted as Kraven catches him off guard, swiftly incapacitating him with a tranquilizer rifle.

Kraven, growing older and increasingly bitter in a changing world, has made a solemn vow to finally conquer his arch-nemesis, Spider-Man. Taking advantage of Spider-Man's unconsciousness, Kraven buries him in the ground and dons an identical costume. Believing that he must surpass Spider-Man to achieve victory, Kraven masquerades as the hero and embarks on a mission to eradicate crime in the city. Going beyond Spider-Man's perceived limitations, Kraven mercilessly beats and even kills several criminals, before successfully defeating the villain Vermin single-handedly.

As the effects of the tranquilizer wear off, Spider-Man emerges from beneath the ground and struggles to confront Kraven. Encountering the hunter, Spider-Man is met with reluctance, as Kraven insists that he has already emerged as the ultimate champion in their ongoing conflict.

Kraven sets Vermin free, preventing the villain from fatally striking Spider-Man, and then releases him into the untamed jungle to cause chaos once more. Offering Spider-Man the choice to confront him or pursue Vermin, Kraven deems himself victorious, finally ending his relentless hunt. As Spider-Man swiftly heads off to apprehend Vermin, Kraven contemplates his existence, finding newfound tranquility before ultimately taking his own life.

How Marvel's Spider-Man 2's Story Stays Unique with Kraven

Kraven's Last Hunt is a remarkably somber tale, a departure from the typically lighthearted nature of our beloved hero. Widely regarded as one of the most influential Spider-Man comics ever created, it seemed like an obvious choice for Insomniac to incorporate into the main storyline of Marvel's Spider-Man 2. However, it is worth noting that while Kraven's cancer is a central theme in both narratives, there are no explicit connections or sources of inspiration between the two.

Kraven's pursuit of the perfect rival in New York, which he ultimately finds in Spider-Man, is not confined to that particular storyline. It is exciting to witness Kraven taking on various members of the Sinister Six, as the characters have a genuine sense of high stakes. However, without Kraven subduing Peter or adopting the black cloth suit, there is no connection between the two.

In Marvel's Spider-Man 2, Kraven does confront Spider-Man in the rain, but the Symbiote is not a factor in Kraven's Last Hunt. This comic serves as the culmination of a rich history, while Marvel's Spider-Man 2 portrays Peter and Kraven's initial and final encounters. Each iteration of Kraven also has a distinct ending. Insomniac's version of Kraven does not commit suicide at the conclusion of Spider-Man 2. Instead, he willingly allows himself to be killed by Venom, viewing it as the ultimate rival and the end of his lifelong hunt.

Marvel's Spider-Man 2 is available now on PS5.