The Daily Bugle reports a human, Peter Parker, was bitten by a genetically-engineered spider.
Result: Spider-Man.
On the coattails of the much-anticipated Spider-Man movie, opening in theaters Friday, Xbox has released Spider-Man, hoping to capitalize on the adventures of the comic book hero as he defends the city of New York from the filth and chaos that riddles it.
Without giving away the events of the game, nor the movie, the game begins with high school student Peter Parker being bitten by a genetically-engineered spider (following the basic events of the film). Parker is then given the super powers of a spider (Spidey sense, web-making) that will aid in his defense against his arch-nemesis, the Green Goblin, as well as other roadblocks that are thrown in his way.
With the synopsis of the game said, Spider-Man begins rather slow as Parker learns how to use his powers (a code for a new move is given at the end of each level), and enemies are rather easy to defeat.
Besides the Green Goblin, Spidey must defeat villains such as The Shocker, Vulture, Scorpion and – a surprise appearance – Mr. Kraven. All enemies are more time-consuming than difficult to defeat. Victory can be achieved just by pressing buttons and hoping some sort of action will result which most of which enemies cannot defend.
Graphics of New York City in the game are detailed. The city looks as if it is above the sky, convincing the player of the towering heights through 3-D graphics and great animation.
Gameplay flows seamlessly because all areas of New York seem inviting.
However, the most interesting part of the game is the numerous tricks that can be achieved by using Spidey’s web. Web-slinging from building to building, point to point, capturing enemies with the web, spying on enemies while suspended upside down – all seem to make players want to be bitten by nearby spiders.
The only downfall of the game may be that it is only for one player. But because Spidey runs alone, this fault is understandable.
Found only on Xbox’s version of Spider-Man are two exclusive levels and supervillain Mr. Kraven.
“Can Spider-Man come out and play?” – Green Goblin (Spider-Man, 2002).
