Insomniac’s take on the Spider-Man franchise set itself apart by diving into a chapter of Peter Parker’s journey that most adaptations shy away from—eight years into his superhero career. This choice allowed the creators to skip the familiar origin story and instead showcase a seasoned Spider-Man who has tangled with numerous foes and gained a wealth of experience. By not focusing on the traditional starting point, Insomniac had the luxury to shine a light on underrepresented villains from Spidey’s rogue’s gallery. Adding Miles Morales into the mix was a stroke of genius, offering a fresh narrative perspective with Peter Parker stepping into a mentor role.
However, it seems Peter’s time at the forefront might be drawing to a close. In Marvel’s Spider-Man 2, Peter decides to take a step back and hands over the responsibility of protecting New York to Miles. This transition sets the stage for an anticipated Marvel’s Spider-Man 3, which could explore new storylines inspired by recent comic book arcs revolving around Peter’s future.
Peter Parker’s journey has consistently been defined by a string of misfortunes, often referred to as “Parker Luck.” Just as things are on the brink of turning around for him, fate intervenes, throwing his world into chaos. Whether it’s something as trivial as running out of web-fluid mid-swing or as devastating as having his secret identity exposed, Peter can never seem to catch a break. Over the years, he’s faced heart-wrenching losses, from Gwen Stacy dying in his arms to his marriage to MJ being erased from reality. Even in the Ultimate Spider-Man series, Peter’s life ends tragically at just 16, a testament to his enduring struggles.
But there’s a glimmer of hope on the horizon. For the first time in years, Peter might be on the path to happiness. Starting in January 2024, the new Ultimate Spider-Man run by Jonathan Hickman and Marco Checchetto paints a different picture for Peter Parker. In this alternate universe, many superheroes are stopped from ever gaining their powers. Peter is among them, with the radioactive spider that would have made him Spider-Man caught before it can bite him.
This series begins by offering a glimpse into the life of a 35-year-old Peter, living a contented life with his wife, MJ, and their children. Despite his happiness, Peter senses something is missing. This changes when he’s presented with the opportunity to embrace his destiny once more, thanks to that very spider from his past. He takes the plunge, becoming Spider-Man at 35. So far, the story allows him to have both a family and his heroic calling, striking a satisfying balance. While it’s always possible that his world could be upended once again, at this moment, Peter Parker is relishing the happy ending fans have longed for him to have.
Looking ahead, Marvel’s Spider-Man 3 could take inspiration from this optimistic twist for Peter, while giving center stage to Miles Morales and other heroes to guard the city. It’s a fresh narrative direction deserving of exploration, one where Peter Parker can finally claim the joy he’s earned after years of sacrifice and struggle.
