Swing into Nostalgia with Spider-Man 2's Iconic Web Wings
Marvel's Spider-Man 2 seamlessly weaves in nods to its predecessor with the addition of web wings, adding a layer of nostalgia and continuity to the game's rich lore
In Marvel's Spider-Man, there are details of Peter Parker's life that are left to the imagination of the player. While his current situation can be inferred from his interactions with other characters, there is a rich history of his eight-year career as Spider-Man that remains unknown to fans. This history has culminated in the Spider-Man living in a bachelor's apartment, struggling to pay rent. Despite the potential for a sequel to disregard this past, Marvel's Spider-Man 2 has already revealed details that connect it to Peter's history in meaningful ways. The addition of underarm web wings may seem random, but it will enhance the traversal system for both Peter and Miles Morales, making it more fluid and streamlined. As such, the design concept has been revisited and optimized for the upcoming game.
Marvel’s Spider-Man Alluded to Web Wings in a Backpack Collectible
Marvel’s Spider-Man’s backpack collectibles offer players a unique glimpse into Peter’s life prior to the game's events, no matter how insignificant or brimming with fan service they may seem. The Sandman backpack collectible, for instance, features a vial containing traces of Sandman's own substance, revealing just how significant these collectibles can be in terms of revealing the game's lore. On the other hand, the web wing backpack collectible, while seemingly just a playful reference to Spider-Man's early costume illustrations in the comics, holds a deeper meaning. The torn webbing on the backpack indicates that Peter never quite got the design right, ultimately discarding it. However, the perfected design now allows both Peter and Miles to glide through the air using their respective suits.
It will be intriguing to discover whether Miles’ collaboration with Spider-Man technology and apparel has successfully led to the realization of web wings, with two scientifically-inclined minds working together. The impact of web wings on gameplay, such as navigating through Central Park or Queens in Marvel’s Spider-Man 2, will also be fascinating to observe. Depending on how fast it can propel players through the open world, web wings may even surpass web-swinging as the primary mode of traversal.
Furthermore, it seems that web wings will be accessible early on in the sequel, as evidenced by the trailer sequence showcased during the PlayStation Showcase. The connection between Peter's past and present through the addition of web wings is a welcome touch, and opens up the possibility of other backpack collectibles making an appearance in the sequel. Marvel's Spider-Man previously incorporated the dumpling recipe into its narrative, and it will be intriguing to see if other items, such as Lizard's blood or Nelson and Murdock's business card, are referenced as well.
Although it appears doubtful that Eddie Brock Jr. will be involved in Marvel’s Spider-Man 2, he remains a part of Insomniac’s original universe as evidenced by the ‘Good Luck’ card he was given during his time working at The Daily Bugle. The addition of perfected web wings provides an exciting opportunity for Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 to enhance its gameplay and deepen its connection to the franchise’s established lore. Fans can look forward to the game’s release this fall, available exclusively for PlayStation 5.
