Marvel's Spider-Man: Miles Morales | 2022 Game of the Year

This year has been a Spider-Man marathon for me, with re-watches of Into The Spider-Verse and No Way Home, reading through volumes of Spider-Gwen and Miles Morales comics, and re-playing the 2018 Spider-Man game. But what really stood out was Insomniac's 2020 semi-sequel, Marvel's Spider-Man: Miles Morales, which I received as a birthday gift. The game is exceptional, building upon the foundation laid by its predecessor while introducing sufficient changes to feel distinct. The combat system is familiar yet accessible, with Miles' unique abilities, such as Venom Blast and invisibility, adding a new layer of excitement. The storyline is more personal, with Miles facing a villain who threatens his home and the people he cares about, making the stakes feel higher. The game's focus on Harlem and its community adds a sense of depth and connection, making the experience feel more intimate. The side quests, which often come from people Miles knows, further emphasize his role as a Friendly Neighbourhood Spider-Man. The game's length, musical score, and attention to detail all contribute to a captivating experience. Overall, Marvel's Spider-Man: Miles Morales is a superb sequel that surpasses the original in many ways, and I can see myself replaying it multiple times.