Always popular in video games, Marvel's Spider-Man has graced consoles for many years, but of course it wasn't until the dawn of PlayStation and Saturn et al that the spandex-clad super-hero was born in 3D. 2002's Spider-Man, a game based on the recent film of the same name, was perhaps the most successful instalment, and delivered classic web-slinging action and combat. But now there's Spider-Man 2 for PC, a game that differs from its console counterparts and targets a younger audience more ... more >>

Always popular in video games, Marvel's Spider-Man has graced consoles for many years, but of course it wasn't until the dawn of PlayStation and Saturn et al that the spandex-clad super-hero was born in 3D. 2002's Spider-Man, a game based on the recent film of the same name, was perhaps the most successful instalment, and delivered classic web-slinging action and combat. But now there's Spider-Man 2 for PC, a game that differs from its console counterparts and targets a younger audience more appreciative of simple play mechanics and light-hearted visuals.

Spider-Man 2 again sees players assuming control of Peter Parker's alter-ego as he fights for the cause of good yet again, but where the console versions rely heavily on the Sam Raimi sequel for storytelling, the Fizz Factor-developed PC version boasts a whole new plot of its own. However, catching villains and defeating enemies is still the order of the day here, it's just a lot simpler.

Visually speaking, the game looks almost cartoon-esque. Textures are flat and simple, and on-screen animation is a little clunky, but some would argue that's the way it's supposed to be. On a similar note, Spider-Man's control method is among the easiest we've come across for an airborne platformer. Using those classic W, A, S and D keys, players can move forwards, backwards and strafe, while the mouse serves as a means for direction, jumping and combat. And that's it. Simple enough, and most definitely welcome to a pre-teen audience.

Spider-Man 2 for PC is a game for kids, and not to be compared with the console offerings. And though it lacks a big-screen plot and flashy graphics, none of that matters here - kids will love it. End of story. << less