Marvel Comics Review: SPIDER-MAN #10
Credit: Marvel
Concluding the ‘Maxed Out’ story arc, SPIDER-MAN #10 hits shelves this week from Dan Slott, with Christos Gage, and art by Mark Bagley, with John Dell & Andrew Hennessy. The issue, much like the three-issue arc, was heavy on entertainment, nostalgia, and visual delight, even if it was low in stakes. We also get more Spider-Boy, which all just feels like a giant tease (which makes sense given the character wasn’t created with his own series in mind!) until we can see him star in his own series later this year.
The issue picks up with Spider-Man and Electro locked in battle, with Spider-Boy joining the fight and helping to save the day. Peter’s spider-sense continues to cause problems and Norman Osborn deals with his own frustrations for his part in the process.
Credit: Marvel
After initially being the darling of comic book social media, I’ve started to see some pushback against Spider-Boy for taking over much of the focus for this series but I’m still a big fan. We’re starting to get breadcrumbs and his feelings of loneliness & despair make him an instantly sympathetic character. For me, he’s still aiding in Peter’s own character portrayal in this series — highlighting Peter’s unflinching willingness to help out the little guy.
Slott and Gage continue to show why they’re Spider-Man staples and Bagley’s artwork is impeccable from start to finish. His attention to detail in even the most minuscule background visual is truly a sight to behold. The slight design & coloring contrast of Spider-Boy compared to Spider-Man & Electro is a smart way to indicate the bridge to a new character.
Credit: Marvel
Rating: 7/10
