Marvel's Spider-Man 2 features a diverse array of iconic villains, highlighting Peter and Miles' struggles with complex relationships. Villains like Kraven, Venom, and Mister Negative enrich the storytelling, showcasing the game's depth. However, while the game excels in many areas, it falls short in providing a satisfying conclusion for Mister Negative, leaving behind loose ends and unanswered queries regarding his connection with Miles.
Throughout Spider-Man 2, Miles grapples with his animosity towards Martin Li, holding him responsible for his father's demise. Despite this, Miles faces a dilemma during a confrontation with Mister Negative at Kraven's prison, torn between seeking revenge and choosing the moral path of returning Li to prison. This internal conflict sets the stage for Mister Negative's redemption arc, but the resolution falls short, failing to address the lingering uncertainties surrounding his character.
The Incomplete Resolution of Mister Negative's Storyline
Martin Li's role in Spider-Man 2 extends beyond being a catalyst for Miles' growth, becoming instrumental in defeating Venom and the symbiote invasion. Although Miles harbors resentment towards Li, the latter shows remorse for his actions and renounces vengeance. As part of his redemption, Li collaborates with Miles to free Peter from the symbiote's control using his Negative powers, leading to Peter acquiring Anti-Venom abilities.
Despite Li's pivotal role in thwarting Venom, the game hastily concludes his character arc after Peter gains the Anti-Venom suit. Li departs without a clear destination or purpose following his release from prison, leaving unresolved tensions between him and Miles. This abrupt ending hints at untapped potential for Martin Li's character, suggesting future exploration in the upcoming Insomniac Spider-Man installment.
The Ongoing Relevance of Mister Negative in the Spider-Man Universe
Insomniac has the opportunity to provide Martin Li with the closure he deserves in the forthcoming Spider-Man 3, especially considering the unresolved nature of his character in Spider-Man 2. To complete his character arc, Spider-Man 3 must address Miles' acceptance of Li's redemption and forgiveness for his father's death. As Miles assumes the mantle of the lead Spider-Man post-Spider-Man 2, this growth is essential in shaping him into a protector worthy of New York City's citizens.
The next installment should also clarify Martin Li's post-Spider-Man 2 whereabouts, whether he returns to F.E.A.S.T., resumes his sentence at the Raft, or establishes a new initiative aiding the vulnerable. Mister Negative could potentially join forces with the Spider-Men against the anticipated main villain, likely Norman Osborn's Green Goblin. This collaboration would bring Mister Negative's journey full circle, as he transitions from seeking revenge on Osborn to potentially aiding in Norman's redemption, steering him away from vengeance against Spider-Man.