CANCELED Spider-Man Game’s Story Could Revive Itself in Marvel’s Spider-Man 3

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Similar to the initial game in the series, Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 seems likely to lay the groundwork for storylines that may continue in Marvel’s Spider-Man 3. Although Insomniac’s abandoned DLC for Spider-Man 2 might be incorporated into the third installment, it’s crucial that the game offers a grand, attention-grabbing narrative – something akin to a blockbuster movie. The aborted plans for Ultimate Spider-Man 2 could potentially provide the blueprint for such a plot.

Major spoilers ahead for Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 and the Ultimate Spider-Man comic series.

First published in 2005, the game titled “Ultimate Spider-Man” was a bold and innovative open-world action title that drew inspiration from the comic book series of the same name. The “Ultimate” line of Marvel comics emerged in the late ’90s as a means to acquaint new readers with familiar characters, by resetting stories for X-Men, Avengers, and of course, Spider-Man within a new universe, unencumbered by the intricate continuity found in mainstream Marvel. Although the outcomes were varied, “Ultimate Spider-Man” proved to be extremely popular, lasting an impressive 160 issues, offering abundant material for captivating storytelling within the game. A notable arc, “Death of a Goblin“, was initially slated to form the backbone of the second “Ultimate Spider-Man” game, but with that project shelved, it could now be a fitting addition to “Marvel’s Spider-Man 3“.

Death of a Goblin Would Be a Perfect Fit for Marvel’s Spider-Man 3

The Death of a Goblin Arc, Explained

As a gamer, I’d rephrase that as: “My adventure begins as Norman Osborn, now the Green Goblin, escapes from the fortified prison known as the Triskelion. Earlier, I, as Harry, had been altered by the Hobgoblin mutations, partly due to Norman’s hypnotic influence. Working alongside Carol Danvers and S.H.I.E.L.D., we trick Norman into leaving Aunt May’s house, seeking revenge on Peter Parker. With a thirst for vengeance, he heads towards the Triskelion, setting up an epic final showdown between him and S.H.I.E.L.D.

The narrative takes a grim turn as the tale unfolds, with Harry resorting to transforming into Hobgoblin to shield himself and S.H.I.E.L.D. agents from Norman. In this form, they engage in a ferocious battle that turns out to be a tragic father-son duel. Despite reverting back to his human form, Harry’s adversary, blinded by rage, continues the assault, ultimately leading to Harry’s gruesome death. Overwhelmed with guilt and sorrow, Norman pleads for his life, but S.H.I.E.L.D. agents, devoid of emotion, comply, shooting him down. The tale concludes with both goblins lying lifeless side by side.

Why Death of a Goblin Makes Sense for Spider-Man 3

The final scene of Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 hints at the Green Goblin’s appearance in the following game, as Norman requests a peculiar “G-serum” for Harry’s Venom recovery. This implies that Harry may transform into the Green Goblin, but there are several possibilities. One such possibility is that Spider-Man or another adversary interferes with Norman’s treatment of Harry, causing him to administer the G-serum to himself in order to achieve his objectives.

The arrangement for a “Death of a Goblin” adaptation seems set, and with minimal adjustments, these pieces could be toppled over. Additionally, drawing inspiration from “Death of a Goblin” could provide thematic depth, as it would enable Harry to undergo a meaningful redemption arc and bring a strong, impactful end to his and Norman’s story. The focus here is on “inspiration,” as it’s impossible for “Marvel’s Spider-Man 3” to directly replicate the comic arc due to significant differences between Insomniac’s Marvel universe and the Ultimate universe. However, key plot points such as Harry and Norman being goblins concurrently and Norman leading to his son’s downfall could fit exceptionally well.

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2025-05-15 05:34