REVIEW: Spider-Man Miles Morales

Insomniac's recent visit to New York captures a moment that truly embodies what makes Spider-Man such a unique character and figure. Miles Morales is our new hero. He walks down the street when he sees two people creating a mural of Peter Parker on Harlem's wall. Miles lives there now. He admires their work and asks about the "new man." The artist tells Miles that he likes Parker but prefers the original.

Spider-Man Miles Morales follows up on 2018's Spider-Man. This is both a classic and a fresh start for PlayStation's Spider-Verse. Miles Morales lets you switch from Pete, who finally takes a vacation, to Miles, New York's only Spider-Man, while his mentor is away. After an exciting and chaotic opening scene in which the Spider-Men fight a familiar face, Miles must now go it alone and battle new foes, including Roxxon Energy's private security force and The Underground, which is led by the mysterious Tinkerer.

Let me start by saying that the story is fairly standard for superhero stories. Although there are some surprising developments in the beginning and fascinating twists on familiar characters like the last game, the story ends exactly as you expect. This is not necessarily a bad thing. The game's story is more about the characters than the plot. It goes in the "save your city, while also fighting your personal demons” direction.

The upside is that Miles Morales is a much shorter story than the first. There isn't much fat in the plot. There are no filler missions or cool but pointless tangents. Each mission moves the story forward in a meaningful way, which is truly admirable.

As with most great superhero stories however, the "saving of the world" actions often take a backseat for character growth and personal journeys. Miles Morales really delivers.

Although I may have a bias, Miles is fast becoming my favorite Spider-Man. There's something so powerful about his character's ability to overcome adversity. He is forced to carry the entire weight of a city on his shoulders while working under the guidance of his mentor, who is almost universally beloved. Insomniac, as in the first game shows a great understanding of these characters and their unique qualities.

Miles, who is constantly plagued with self-doubt, and insecure about his ability to live up the Spider-Man role, exudes confidence and joy regarding his abilities. This is a line many writers have attempted and failed to follow, but it has been perfectly followed here. Miles' development is evident over the game's 10 hours. He becomes more charming as the story goes on. Nadji Jeter (Miles' actor) and the writers deserve all of the credit for this game.

If you are a fan the original Spider-Man games, then Miles Morales will feel just like wearing a pair of comfortable pants. Once again, you'll find yourself gliding through New York City's bustling streets (now covered with snow), battling baddies, and collecting the many collectibles. These aspects are not too important. If you enjoyed them in the original game, you will love them here. This is the most refined Arkham-style combat, and the swinging feels just as pure as ever. This game is an absolute joy from moment to moment.

Miles Morales introduces two elements to stop combat becoming stale: Miles' Venom (no relationship) and his camouflage capabilities. His Venom powers are his most thrilling, allowing him to create new combinations and deal with large groups. They are visually stunning and feel strong. It's a great way to send an opponent flying by charging up your electrical fist.

You expect his camouflage to be exactly as you would expect, but it doesn't make it less fun. It's thrilling to move between enemies in plain view. Your meter's depletion makes sure that you don't get "overpowered".

Side activities have been simplified in the game. Gone are the days when there was separate crime, activity and research tokens. They are now replaced with activity tokens or tech parts. Everything in the game grants activity tokens, including completing side and main missions and clearing out bases to find collectibles. Underground caches are scattered around the city and provide tech parts. These currencies can be used to upgrade gadgets or unlock special suit perks. The system is simpler and requires less management than the previous one. This change will hopefully carry over to the next game.

Side content is also very rewarding and meaningful in this game. While you may be swinging about and finding random items, there is a lot of detail that Miles can practice his quips or gives backstory. A special collectible set is available only after the main storyline is completed. It is particularly poignant.

Miles can also return to multiple suits in the game, almost all of them being really cool. Although I love the Into The Spider-Verse suit, I have to admit that it is my favorite movie of all time. However, I tried a few different suits; Miles looks great regardless of which one you choose.

If I'm allowed to be a bit sloppy, Spider-Man Miles Moraleslives up to the original game's promise to "be greater." It tells a quick, emotional story with characters that feel real. The protagonist is perfect, the combat is refined and new abilities are added to make the little things more meaningful. It's one my favorite gaming experiences, crossing the line between fan service and satisfying storytelling.

It is also an unapologetically own game. While it doesn't fix everything, it streamlines and adds other elements to make the game almost perfect. This game is a unique launch title, with its diverse cast and hip-hop-inspired soundtrack.

You should leave some room for the new guy.