Spider-Man boasts one of the most iconic rogues’ galleries in comic book history. A hero is often defined by the strength of their villains, and in this regard, the web-slinger stands unmatched. Insomniac’s PlayStation Spider-Man games have already showcased formidable foes like Doctor Octopus, Kraven the Hunter, and Venom. While some might worry the well of compelling villains has run dry, numerous captivating antagonists remain untapped. While the next installment is likely still some time away, we’ve compiled three villains who would be perfect additions to the future of Marvel’s Spider-Man.
Insomniac’s meticulous attention to detail and commitment to delivering compelling narratives have set a high bar for Spider-Man games. The next installment presents an opportunity to introduce fresh challenges for both Peter Parker and Miles Morales, and these three villains offer a compelling mix of power, personality, and potential for exciting gameplay.
Hallows’ Eve: A Multifaceted Threat
Janine Godbe, initially a supporting character and Ben Reilly’s love interest in the ’90s Spider-Man comics, faded into obscurity for years, only making sporadic appearances in Spider-Girl. However, the Dark Web crossover two years ago thrust her back into the spotlight, granting her transformative powers thanks to Sy’m and Madeline Pryor. Now known as Hallows’ Eve, she utilizes masks to access a diverse range of abilities. This resurgence has propelled her to prominence, featuring in Amazing Spider-Man, her own limited series, and the recent Blood Hunters storyline. She even has her own Marvel Legends figure!
Hallows’ Eve’s rising popularity makes her a strong contender for inclusion in the next game, but it’s her mask-based transformations that truly set her apart. Each mask grants unique superhuman abilities, creating opportunities for diverse boss battles showcasing different powers and strategies. From hero-inspired masks like Captain America and Hulk to monstrous forms like vampires and werewolves, the possibilities are virtually limitless. Her ability to transform others, notably into werewolves (perhaps hinting at a Man-Wolf appearance), further expands the narrative potential. This versatility makes Hallows’ Eve a truly compelling addition to the Insomniac universe.
Swarm: A Buzzing Menace
Gamers love a good villain, and Swarm offers a unique and unsettling challenge. Fritz von Meyer, a Nazi scientist whose body is primarily composed of bees surrounding a skeletal frame, debuted in The Champions but has become a recurring Spider-Man adversary.
Swarm’s striking visual design, particularly in more recent comics, would translate perfectly to a video game. Imagine the PS5 DualSense controller’s haptic feedback simulating the sensation of countless bee stings! While often portrayed as somewhat comical in the comics, Swarm could become a truly formidable and disturbing foe in the game.
Morlun: The Inheritor of Fear
Among Spider-Man’s vast array of enemies, Morlun stands out as one of the most terrifying. Introduced in J. Michael Straczynski and John Romita Jr.’s Amazing Spider-Man run, Morlun nearly killed Peter Parker in their first encounter. His relentless pursuit and sheer power have made him a persistent threat ever since, particularly in the Spider-Verse storylines.
While a multiverse storyline in the next game seems unlikely, Morlun’s inclusion still makes narrative sense. Marvel’s Spider-Man 2‘s ending hints at the appearance of Cindy Moon, also known as Silk. Given Silk’s origin story is intertwined with Morlun, their simultaneous appearance is a compelling possibility. Morlun’s immense strength and intimidating presence would make him a truly formidable final boss encounter.
The Future of Spider-Man’s Villains
Insomniac has consistently delivered exceptional Spider-Man experiences. With a rich roster of villains yet to be explored, the future of the series remains bright. Hallows’ Eve, Swarm, and Morlun represent just a fraction of the compelling antagonists waiting to challenge Spider-Man in the next installment. These characters offer unique gameplay opportunities and narrative potential, ensuring that the next PlayStation Spider-Man game will be as thrilling and unforgettable as its predecessors.
