When Peter Parker, then 15, was bitten by a genetically altered spider, he became faster, stronger, and more agile, gaining the spider-like ability to cling to walls. With the addition of web shooters and a costume, Peter transforms into Spider-Man. Eddie Brock, Jr. is a childhood friend of Peter’s. Eddie came into contact with a symbiotic suit while searching for his scientist father’s legacy, transforming him into the monstrous Venom. Ultimate Spider-Man follows both of their Brian Michael Bendis-written adventures, as Spidey tries to stop Venom from killing innocent people and Venom tries to avoid S.H.I.E.L.D.’s schemes.
The Ultimate version of the Spider-Man mythos modernizes the Franchise by introducing edgier (and frequently younger) versions of well-known superheroes and supervillains. Some of the Ultimate characters who appear include the Human Torch, Wolverine, Electro, and the Green Goblin. Ultimate Spider-Man is a fully rendered, cel-shaded Manhattan that can be explored.
Spider-Man and Venom can climb, jump, and web-swing through Manhattan and Queens with a few exceptions. Like other in-game objectives, story missions appear as hotspots on the map. After patrolling (or destroying) the city, the player can visit these hotspots to advance the story. Spider-Man and Venom can race between story missions, go on combat tours, discover and collect hidden icons, and help (or harm) New Yorkers.
