Warning: Spoilers ahead for Marvel’s Spider-Man 2.Thus far, it seems as if the mainMarvel’s Spider-Mantrilogy has been aiming to focus on all of Peter Parker’s greatest foes. The original game featured Mr. Negative in a prominent role, but its main villain was Doctor Octopus. Similarly, though Kraven was a major antagonist inMarvel’s Spider-Man 2, it was Venom that was built up to and served as the ultimate threat of the story. With theG-Serummentioned, it seems likeMarvel’s Spider-Man 3is set to feature the third of Peter Parker’s trinity of iconic villains, though Green Goblin may not come alone.
Thus far, Insomniac Games has featured two major villains in its stories, and it would make sense for that trend to continue inMarvel’s Spider-Man 3. While thepost credits scene forMarvel’s Spider-Man 2suggests that this other threat will be a returning Doc Ock, there will still be room for secondary threats. Not only have Carnage and Chameleon been teased, but some surprises will likely be in store, similar to how Taskmaster and Tombstone came out of nowhere. Though there is nothing to suggest that Hobgoblin will accompany Green Goblin inMarvel’s Spider-Man 3, it’s surprisingly easy to think of a scenario for him, as his healing factor is just what one unlucky character needs right now.
Hobgoblin Makes More Sense For Harry Osborn Than Green Goblin
Insomniac’s Hobgoblin Could Be Green Goblin’s Successor
FollowingPeter Parkerdestroying the Venom Symbiote using his Anti-Venom abilities, Harry Osborn’s condition has returned and his health is worse than ever. As a result, Norman Osborn has asked for the G-Serum, with many assuming that the G in front is a teaser for Goblin. However, given how much damage was caused by Harry’s initial treatment Symbiote, it would make sense for Norman to be more careful this time around. As such, he may try the treatment on himself first, slowly becoming more unhinged as he embraces his new power.
Based on his reaction at the end ofMarvel’s Spider-Man 2, Norman already has a grudge against the Spider-Men, specifically Peter, as he blames him for Harry falling ill again. Even though this is an unfair assessment, the seed has been planted, and his hate will only be amplified when he starts losing his mind. This could see him trying to fight and kill Peter, only to accidentally die in the scrap - or intentionally, if Superior Spider-Man is adapted - which could see Harry targeting Spider-Man when he wakes up. Unaware of the consequences, Harry could inject himself with the G-Serum like his father, fighting Spider-Man in his second final boss battle of the series. Hobgoblin’s healing factor could allow for a brutal, lengthy fight, making it feel different from a Green Goblin battle even if similar gadgets are used.
There have been several Hobgoblins in Marvel’s history, and while Harry Osborn has been one, Ned Leeds, Daniel Kingsley, and Phil Urich are just some of the other names to use the persona. However, as shown with Venom,Insomniac Gamesis more interested in introducing villains naturally as opposed to randomly inserting a name from the comics for fan service, so an existing character becoming Hobgoblin makes more sense.
Insomniac’s Hobgoblin Could Be an Anti-Hero
However, Insomniac Games could also shake things up with its Hobgoblin just like it did with its version of Tinkerer, this time making the character an ally. Prior to the Symbiote overtaking Harry’s mind and making him lose control, he showed heroic tendencies while wearing hisAgent Venomsuit. Further, the Emily-May Foundation is proof that Harry Osborn is a good person that has simply been thrown into unfortunate situations. Perhaps, assuming that Norman does try the serum himself first to make sure it is a good option for his son, Harry could end up getting a dose that is purely beneficial. Norman Osborn could either die or be arrested, but he could rest easy knowing that everything he did was worth it, with his son saved and Harry free to heal the world like he always wanted to. From there, Harry could assist Spider-Man in fighting another big bad like Doc Ock or get his own spin-off game.
Marvel’s Spider-Man 2
WHERE TO PLAY
Spider-Men Peter Parker and Miles Morales face the ultimate test of strength inside and outside the mask as they fight to save the city, each other and the ones they love, from the monstrous Venom and the dangerous new symbiote threat.Explore an expansive Marvel’s New York with faster web-swinging and the all-new Web Wings, quickly switching between Peter and Miles to experience different stories, epic new abilities and high-tech gear.Wield Peter’s symbiote abilities and Miles’ explosive bio-electric powers in battle against new and iconic Marvel Super Villains – including an original take on a symbiote-infused Venom, the ruthless Kraven the Hunter, the volatile Lizard, and more from the Marvel Rogues’ Gallery.
