Overview of Spider-Man’s Video Game Legacy
- The history of Spider-Man in video games is vast, covering several decades and a diverse range of genres across various platforms.
- With many titles featuring engaging gameplay, memorable villains, and different interpretations of the character, such as Miles Morales and Spider-Man Noir, the franchise has something for every fan.
- Players can explore an assortment of Spider-Man games, from action-packed beat ’em ups to expansive open-world adventures, as well as unique mobile experiences.
When it comes to superhero video games, few rival the storied legacy of Spider-Man. With games dating back several decades, this beloved wall-crawler has enjoyed a significant presence across numerous platforms and styles. The majority of these titles have been well-received, although a few have not met player expectations. Notably, Spider-Man’s game selection is more extensive than that of many other iconic superhero franchises.
From swinging through a meticulously crafted version of New York City to battling some of his most notorious foes in side-scrolling adventures, Peter Parker embodies style in his gameplay. In addition to Peter, players will encounter several alternate spider-heroes, such as Miles Morales, Spider-Man 2099, and the noir-inspired Spider-Man Noir in various top-tier games.
Updated December 16, 2024, by Tom Bowen: As one of the most adaptable superheroes, Spider-Man has proven to be a compelling character for video game adaptations. His impressive combat skills and *web-swinging abilities* make him exceptionally enjoyable to play, which has resulted in a plethora of high-quality games. While not every title has met the mark, each brings something distinct to the table, making it noteworthy considering Spider-Man’s prolific gaming history. The top Spider-Man games undoubtedly provide players with unique and engaging experiences across various gaming genres.
Complete List of Spider-Man Video Games
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Title |
Release Date |
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Spider-Man |
November 1982 |
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The Amazing Spider-Man |
July 1990 |
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October 1991 |
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October 17, 1991 |
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The Amazing Spider-Man 2 |
August 1992 |
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The Amazing Spider-Man 3: Invasion of the Spider-Slayers |
July 1993 |
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September 16, 1994 |
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Spider-Man |
February 13, 1995 |
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March 17, 1995 |
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May 15, 1995 |
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September 1, 2000 |
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August 26, 2001 |
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September 19, 2001 |
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April 16, 2002 |
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June 28, 2004 |
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September 22, 2005 |
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November 14, 2006 |
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May 4, 2007 |
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October 2, 2007 |
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October 21, 2008 |
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September 1, 2010 |
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September 7, 2010 |
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October 4, 2011 |
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June 26, 2012 |
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April 17, 2014 |
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September 10, 2014 |
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September 7, 2018 |
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November 12, 2020 |
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October 20, 2023 |
24 Venom/Spider-Man: Separation Anxiety
GameRankings Rating: 61.5%
While it draws its name from the comic series Separation Anxiety, Venom/Spider-Man: Separation Anxiety closely resembles Venom’s earlier story, Lethal Protector. This multiplayer beat ’em-up allows two players to join forces as Spider-Man and Venom to combat Carnage, the primary villain in the game.
As with many titles released during this period, players may find the gameplay repetitive, and the combat mechanics are relatively basic. Nevertheless, for those in search of a nostalgic 16-bit Spider-Man adventure to enjoy with a friend, Separation Anxiety serves as an entertaining entry and adds an interesting chapter to the franchise, with its cover art probably being its standout feature.
23 The Amazing Spider-Man: Lethal Foes
GameRankings Rating: N/A
The Amazing Spider-Man: Lethal Foes was released exclusively for the Super Famicom in the mid-nineties and features an original storyline. Though its narrative is somewhat lacking, it does include a variety of famous villains and possesses a competent combat system.
This title stands out as one of the few games that utilized the Epoch’s Barcode Battler system, allowing players to unlock additional content through barcode scanning. Although innovative, much like Nintendo’s e-Reader, this technology never garnered significant popularity, but it certainly remains a memorable part of gaming history.
22 Ultimate Spider-Man: Total Mayhem
Metacritic Rating: 85
Following many early Spider-Man titles being adapted for handheld devices, it was no surprise that Gameloft released a mobile-exclusive game, Ultimate Spider-Man: Total Mayhem, in 2010. While less ambitious than its console counterparts, this title’s simplicity may actually work in its favor.
The game takes a beat-em-up approach rather than striving for a sprawling open-world format. True to classic Spider-Man side-scrollers from the nineties, it features striking visuals, enjoyable combat, and an impressive array of villains for players to challenge.
21 The Amazing Spider-Man 2
Metacritic Rating: 57
Similar to the film it was based on, The Amazing Spider-Man 2 struggled to meet expectations, failing to surpass even the modest reviews its predecessor received. Console versions for both PS4 and Xbox One didn’t fare well on Metacritic, receiving scores below 50. Despite this, the game boasts a substantial open world, providing fans with a more enjoyable environment to explore.
However, the technical shortcomings impacted gameplay, especially on PS3 and Xbox 360, which were plagued with issues like frame rate drops and occasional texture pop-ins. Many fans have speculated that the rush to coincide with the movie’s release contributed to its lack of finesse. Nonetheless, players on PC and newer consoles can still find enjoyment in brief gaming sessions.
20 Spider-Man: Battle for New York
Metacritic Rating: 68
Considering the Nintendo DS’s status as one of the top-selling consoles ever, it’s no wonder that numerous Spider-Man games were developed for it. Spider-Man: Battle for New York stands out as a noteworthy title, allowing players to control Spider-Man as he confronts Green Goblin, a classic villain.
This game serves as a prequel to Ultimate Spider-Man, featuring similar gameplay mechanics. Players can freely explore the streets of New York City while aiding citizens and battling criminal elements. Additionally, the DS version incorporates simple touchscreen mini-games, although they quickly become mundane.
19 Spider-Man 3
Metacritic Rating: 63
Spider-Man 3 may not stand out as the pinnacle of Spider-Man gaming since its release, but it successfully executes several key elements. Its expansive sandbox area is beautifully designed, offering a level of realism that earlier titles lacked, while the combat mechanics are quite satisfactory as well.
However, the game’s storyline is where it falters, with a weak and disappointingly brief campaign. Regardless, players will find plenty of enjoyment in the game, particularly in the Wii version, which elegantly incorporates motion controls into the classic Spider-Man gameplay.
18 The Amazing Spider-Man vs. The Kingpin
GameRankings Rating: N/A
While contemporary Spider-Man games frequently feature expansive open-world designs, many of the iconic titles from the nineties relied on side-scrolling platform mechanics infused with beat ’em-up elements. This was primarily due to the limitations of the technology of the time, but such designs are no less engaging. In fact, the linear gameplay might have facilitated a more immersive combat experience for players.
The Amazing Spider-Man vs. The Kingpin, though not the most acclaimed Spider-Man title of the twentieth century, is still worthy of attention. The wall-crawling mechanics and platforming elements are surprisingly well-executed, and the combat is enjoyable. Some may long for more enemy encounters in various levels, but this minor drawback pales in comparison to the game’s overall strengths.
17 The Amazing Spider-Man
Metacritic Rating: 71
For players seeking an enjoyable game with outstanding controls and striking visuals, The Amazing Spider-Man offers a solid experience. The game allows players to explore New York City and take down criminals, providing a captivating glimpse into Peter Parker’s life.
However, the narrative may feel both shallow and repetitive at times, leading to moments where certain side quests appear overly similar. Yet, during the initial hours of play, there remains ample content to keep players engaged.
16 Spider-Man: Friend or Foe
Metacritic Rating: 62
While Spider-Man: Friend or Foe may not excel in presenting an engaging narrative or showcasing Spider-Man’s remarkable abilities, it does offer a casual beat ’em-up experience featuring a large cast of familiar characters. Released in 2007, this title is particularly notable for being the last Spider-Man game to incorporate designs from the Sam Raimi films.
Designed with younger players in mind, Friend or Foe allows Spidey to team up with both allies and foes to combat a symbiote invasion, providing enough entertainment to keep older players engaged for a few hours.
15 Spider-Man: Mysterio’s Menace
Metacritic Rating: 84
In a time when mobile gaming dominates the market, young gamers might not appreciate the fun of a quality handheld superhero game. Spider-Man: Mysterio’s Menace stands out as a particularly memorable title from the past.
This side-scroller features vibrant graphics, robust controls, and catchy tunes, which might not seem groundbreaking today but were invaluable upon its release. Remarkably, it launched just months after the Game Boy Advance, becoming a highlight for the platform.
14 Spider-Man: Edge of Time
Metacritic Rating: 62
Spider-Man: Edge of Time serves as a lesser sequel to Spider-Man: Shattered Dimensions, not quite living up to its predecessor’s standards and lacking in gameplay variety.
Focusing solely on Peter Parker’s classic version and Miguel O’Hara’s Spider-Man 2099, the two web-slingers must collaborate across time and space to save the future. While some gameplay elements can be monotonous and boss battles frustrate, it can still provide entertainment and engagement in the right moments.
13 Spider-Man 2: Enter Electro
Metacritic Rating: 74
Building upon the foundation laid by its predecessor, Spider-Man 2: Enter Electro allows the titular web-slinger to navigate the bustling streets of New York once more, this time facing off against the electricity-based villain, Electro.
While less time is devoted to Maxwell Dillon’s villain in the broader superhero narrative, his inclusion was a welcome change for fans. Players enjoyed the added feature of navigating the game at street level, adding a new layer to the gameplay. Notably, Enter Electro was later re-released without references to the World Trade Center following 9/11, a change that reflects the sensitivities of the time, but overall, it remains a memorable and engaging adventure game.
12 Spider-Man Unlimited
Metacritic Rating: 79
Spider-Man is beloved for his multiple iterations, a concept that resonated strongly in the success of *Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse*. Launched for mobile platforms, Spider-Man Unlimited plays on this idea and delivers a solid gameplay experience.
Operating as a free-runner, players can seamlessly navigate through levels while utilizing web-swinging, engaging in boss battles, and interacting with a variety of characters and narratives. Its rich lore and depth are unmatched by many other games featuring the iconic hero.
11 Spider-Man: The Video Game
GameRankings Rating: N/A
Appropriately named Spider-Man: The Video Game, this arcade title was released for the Sega System 32 in 1991. Players embark on a quest alongside Spider-Man and his allies to recover an artifact, encountering villains such as Kingpin, Venom, Green Goblin, and Doctor Doom along the way.
This multiplayer arcade game allowed players to take control of not just Spider-Man but also other heroes, including Black Cat, Hawkeye, and Sub-Mariner, broadening the experience. This classic, often overlooked today, was once celebrated as one of the premier superhero games during its heyday.
10 Spider-Man (2002)
Metacritic Rating: 79
Although the sequel, Spider-Man 2, often receives acclaim as the pinnacle of video game adaptations, its predecessor, Spider-Man (2002), is a significant step forward from the acclaimed PS1 titles. Taking inspiration from the first Sam Raimi film, it introduced enhanced combat mechanics, improved graphics, and an expanded move set, making gameplay a delight.
A highlight of the game is the epic showdown with the Green Goblin, featuring thrilling challenges both in the air and on the ground. Players also have the option to unlock an alternate storyline featuring Harry Osborn in the Green Goblin suit, adding fresh variations to the experience.
9 Ultimate Spider-Man
Metacritic Rating: 78
Inspired by the comic series of the same name, Ultimate Spider-Man has garnered a loyal fanbase for its engaging gameplay. The title allows players to immerse themselves in the experiences of both Spider-Man and Venom, creating two distinct play styles.
Players can freely explore the city or embark on missions to advance the storyline. Unique to Venom’s character is the need to consume people for health, a dark twist that adds an intriguing dimension to the game’s narrative. The story proved compelling enough that Bendis later incorporated elements from it back into the comic series.
8 Spider-Man: Web of Shadows
Metacritic Rating: 77
Spider-Man: Web of Shadows made its debut in 2008, quickly capturing the hearts of players on platforms such as PlayStation 3, Nintendo Wii, and Xbox 360. Known for its thrilling gameplay and emotional narrative, many fans still regard it as their favorite Spider-Man title to date.
The plot revolves around the spread of symbiotes throughout New York, as Venom poses a significant threat. In addition to a gripping narrative, the game features several memorable cameos, including appearances from Moon Knight, Luke Cage, and Wolverine.
7 Spider-Man 2
Metacritic Rating: 83
In 2004, Spider-Man 2 was released in conjunction with the blockbuster film. Noteworthy for balancing aspects of both Spider-Man and Peter Parker’s life, the game draws players into a storyline involving crime fighting alongside personal relationships.
The game features one of the best web-swinging mechanics in gaming history, allowing players to traverse a stunningly detailed map of Manhattan at will. Similar to the film, it received critical acclaim and remains a beloved choice among Spider-Man enthusiasts.
6 Spider-Man and Venom: Maximum Carnage
GameRankings Rating: 80%
Fans of Spider-Man comics will recognize the storyline behind Spider-Man and Venom: Maximum Carnage. Released in 1994, it coincided with the popularity of the animated Spider-Man series.
Players navigate the game as both Spider-Man and Venom, working together to thwart Carnage and his minions. Regarded as one of the standout side-scrolling action games of its time, it received positive reviews from both players and critics alike.
5 Spider-Man: Shattered Dimensions
Metacritic Rating: 76
Released in 2010, Spider-Man: Shattered Dimensions is a multiplatform title that allows players to embody one of four different Spider-Men. Featuring the Ultimate Spider-Man, Amazing Spider-Man, Spider-Man Noir, and Spider-Man 2099, the game boasts a variety of gameplay options.
Shattered Dimensions thrives on fun and unique mechanics, with each Spider-Man offering a distinct play style. For instance, Noir focuses on stealth, while 2099 is heavily gadget-oriented. There’s a refreshing variety present, with memorable boss battles being a standout feature of the game.
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