Marvel's Spider-Man 2 is fairly formulaic as far as sequels go. The reunion of Insomniac Games' take on Peter Parker and Miles Morales builds upon past foundations, adding just enough to reach new if unsurprising heights. It's in the efforts to stay close to its predecessors, however, that a key differentiator sets in. With the focus on bringing back lesser-known characters while fleshing out self-contained depictions of the friendly neighborhood spiders, the story sidelines Marvel Cinematic Universe expectations in structure and spirit, creating a stronger narrative as a result.

Editor's note: Marvel's Spider-Man 2 spoilers to follow

Avengers: Endgame was released a year after Marvel's Spider-Man, with Marvel's Spider-Man: Miles Morales following a year later. Ever since, the MCU has attempted to rekindle the spotlight, to varying results. It's safe to say the film conglomerate doesn't draw the eyes it once did. But its influential tidal wave, for better or worse, still ripples over Marvel-related media, including the video game space.