Spider-Man 2's Trailer Fixes Big Issue with NYC Setting

The hype surrounding Marvel's Spider-Man 2 was already immense, and the recent footage showcased at the PlayStation event only served to fuel it further. The sight of Peter Parker donning the iconic symbiote suit is an exciting twist, and the prospect of him teaming up with Miles Morales to take on classic foes like Lizard and Kraven the Hunter is sure to delight longtime fans. Following the success of the 2018 game, which many consider the best Spider-Man experience yet, the addition of Miles' fantastic side story has set the stage for something truly special when the pair make their exclusive debut on PS5 this fall. While the previous Miles Morales game was enjoyable, it had its limitations, with familiar combat mechanics and a lack of new areas to explore. However, with story elements now taking place in Queens and on the East River, it seems that Marvel's Spider-Man 2 is poised to improve on its predecessor by offering players even more of the beloved New York City setting to sink their teeth into.

New York is More than Just Manhattan

Spider-Man's true essence is found amidst the iconic landmarks peppered throughout New York City, where he feels most at home. Although venturing elsewhere can be intriguing, he often seems out of place, and his return to the concrete jungle feels like a welcome relief. However, New York is not just flashing lights and towering skyscrapers; it is a city with a distinct personality in each of its neighborhoods. Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Staten Island each possess their own vibe, presenting ample opportunities for engaging gameplay moments and plot twists.

Queens, for instance, presents a unique opportunity for storytelling as it is set apart from the towering buildings that dominate Manhattan. Trouble brewing in a seemingly peaceful residential area would carry significant emotional weight as the fight hits closer to home for those living in the neighborhood. Exploring the different boroughs could indeed provide a narrative advantage for Spider-Man.

Marvel's Spider-Man 2 Needs to Expand Outward

Expanding New York City to include different boroughs not only provides Peter and Miles with more space to explore, but it also allows for the portrayal of cultural differences between areas, which would make the world more diverse. The open-world city in Marvel's Spider-Man was stunning, but it didn't fully utilize the vastness of the Big Apple. However, the sequel seems to have addressed this issue by showcasing Kraven the Hunter's henchmen causing chaos in a Queens neighborhood for almost 13 minutes. The real-life nature of New York City presents certain challenges, but it also provides ample inspiration to create a more authentic and varied experience for players. By offering a diverse range of settlements, Spider-Man 2 can differentiate itself from its predecessor and demonstrate that it's not just a rehashed version of what has come before.

Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 launches in Fall 2023 for PlayStation 5.