Summary
If Marvel decides to make its own version of theLEGO Batmanfranchise, it has one superhero that would be perfect for the job.LEGO Batmanis just one of many franchises that have taken on theLEGOname, although it has proven to be one of the most notable. Marvel themselves have also gotten into the brand with theLEGO Marvel Superheroesgames, so there is already a thread that could lead to a new title. All it would take is the right superhero for the job, and one of Marvel’s finest is perfectly suited to the role.
The history oflicensedLEGOvideo gamesis a long one, stretching back toLEGO Creator: Harry Potterin 2001. It’s not a surprising formula, all things considered.LEGOis a popular brand, and when it crossed paths with other beloved properties, the end result appealed to both fanbases. The originalLEGO Star Warsgames were the first to benefit heavily, being critically acclaimed as well as plenty of fun to play, to the point that the whole series was remastered years later.LEGO Batmanwas a similar case, taking one of DC’s biggest superheroes and giving him a comedic incarnation in the world ofLEGO.
LEGO’s first licensed set, aStar Warsset, was released in 1999, not long before the first licensedLEGOvideo game.
LEGO Spider-Man Is Marvel’s Best Alternative to Batman’s Series
After the PS5-exclusiveSpider-Man 2surpassed sales records, it’s clear that Marvel’s beloved web-slinger is one of its top heroes. Of course, Spider-Man has historically been one of the biggest names in Marvel’s library, arguably on the same level as Superman and Batman. He has been through innumerable stories and amassed a remarkable amount of both enemies and allies. There have been severalSpider-Manvideo games, and he has also appeared in many of Marvel’s other games. Peter’s appearances inLego Marvel Superheroesand its sequel show that there is already precedent for aLEGOgame starring Spider-Man.
The key to success for aLEGO Spider-Mangame is something already seen inLEGO Marvel Super Heroes 2’s story. In that game, players were introduced to a multiverse featuring alternate versions of classic Marvel characters. While Marvel is already famous for its own multiverse,Spider-Mandeserves a special mention in that category. The identity ofSpider-Man, as well as various similar heroes, are a significant aspect of his comics.Spider-Man 2took particular note of this with players being able to play as both Peter and Miles over the course of the game, and aLEGO Spider-Mangame could go even further in that regard.
Peter’s appearances inLego Marvel Superheroesand its sequel show that there is already precedent for aLEGOgame starring Spider-Man.
Aside from the child-friendliness andLEGOaesthetic, aLEGOSpider-Mangame would be distinct from aneventualSpider-Man 2sequelthrough its sheer variety of playable characters. Characters like Gwen and Silk would be shoo-ins, but the multiverse has been very kind toSpider-Man, giving him an immense selection of alternates that could be unlocked. In addition to characters like Spider-Man 2099 and Spider-Man Noir, there are plenty of opportunities for particularly interesting or fun options. Characters like Peter Porker as Spider-Ham or Aunt May as Spider-Ma’am would be a perfect fit for the playful vibe of aLEGOspin-off.
Spider-Man’s popularity has been consistent, and aLEGO Spider-Mangame feels like a good next step. While there is ahigh bar for the nextLEGOgameto clear,Spider-Manshould be more than capable of meeting the challenge. Multiverses are a popular storytelling tool as of late, andSpider-Manhas one of the most notable in the Marvel universe. It’s easy to picture Peter, his allies, and his counterparts having their ownLEGO-themed adventure. When the time comes for Marvel to create their own version ofLEGO Batman, Spider-Man will be there to take the role.
