The Astonishing Absence of Harry Osborn in Marvel's Spider-Man Redefines Great Character Development

Highlights

Marvel's Spider-Man established the condition of New York City and introduced criminal supervillains while exploring the separation of Peter and MJ.

Peter's supposed disinterest in spider-related research within the Osborn penthouse and the erasure of Norman's criminal activities are among the unresolved issues in the game.

By exploring the research labs, the game offers a glimpse into Harry's personality, highlighting his intelligence, concern for the environment, and complex connection with his father.

Marvel's Spider-Man shouldered the weighty responsibility of establishing the intricate world-building and lore of its IP, until Miles Morales arrived to share the burden. Like any inaugural entry in a franchise, the game needed to set the stage for the state of New York City and its dynamic with Spider-Man. Additionally, it had to delineate between existing criminal supervillains and those that would be introduced later in the game. The circumstances surrounding Peter and MJ's separation prior to the game's events were also intriguing, as well as the revelation that Peter could potentially be the father of Felicia's alleged child, only to later uncover that she had fabricated the existence of a child altogether.

While Insomniac Games laid a solid foundation for future narratives in Marvel's Spider-Man, there are a few unresolved threads that leave some questions. For instance, it is perplexing that Peter hasn't shown interest in the spider-related incidents occurring in the Osborn penthouse. Furthermore, Norman Osborn himself seems to have evaded any consequences for his apparent criminal activities in his desperate quest to cure his son Harry's illness. Speaking of Harry, the game provided exposition on his character without ever actually featuring him in-game, until the post-credits scene, that is.

Marvel’s Spider-Man Fleshed Harry Out Wholly Through Research Lab Exposition

Marvel's Spider-Man 2, launching this week, presents a notable transformation in Harry's character compared to his portrayal in the previous game. Through remote research lab recordings and his personal bedroom journal, fans caught a glimpse of the enigmatic nature surrounding Harry. These labs, which served as a valuable source for research token currency in Marvel's Spider-Man, provided insightful information about Peter's childhood friend prior to his supposed departure to Europe. However, MJ uncovers the truth behind Harry's European trip, questioning why Peter and MJ did not investigate further into his whereabouts.

However, Harry is depicted as equally brilliant as Peter and displays a heightened awareness of environmental matters, especially when he feels that Oscorp should be held responsible. While Harry's connection with his late mother was nurturing and kind, his relationship with his father was tumultuous. Nevertheless, Norman has embarked on a perilous path of research in an effort to find a cure for Harry's illness, and possibly for his deceased wife Emily as well.

From the way Norman interacts with Harry in the chamber filled with green fluid, it is evident that he loves his son. The dynamics of their relationship will be intriguing to witness when Harry emerges from the tank in Marvel's Spider-Man 2. It is clear that Harry is driven to collaborate with Peter, and the two already share a strong bond. Consequently, if Harry were to transform into a villain, it would present a striking departure from the perception fans have held of him since hearing his voice in each research lab in Marvel's Spider-Man.

Fans won't have to wait long to witness Harry's genuine character development in the sequel, and how his illness may impact his decision-making. However, Insomniac has already accomplished an impressive level of depth and complexity with Harry in Marvel's Spider-Man, primarily through optional audio logs in his research labs. Marvel's Spider-Man is currently available on both PS4 and PS5.