SNES

Spider-Man & Venom: Maximum Carnage

Maximum Carnage has since been surpassed by titles such as Spider-Man 2; however, it remains fun to this day and I definitely recommend a purchase for a bargain price on eBay. Activision’s Ultimate Spider-Man is the first time since MC’s sequel, Separation Anxiety, that Spider-Man and Venom are playable in the same game. It’s been a long time, and hopefully the latest video game incarnation of the Marvel characters will be as fine as the first. It’s too bad 2D titles of this quality don’t come out very often these days. I’d like to see more titles like this on the GBA or the DS. We don’t have enough quality side-scrolling brawlers anymore. For now, I’ll continue playing Maximum Carnage. ‘Nuff said.

A slightly mediocre beat 'em up that makes few efforts to offer anything new or different.

Acclaim has done it's bit to overcome the somewhat repetitive action by throwing enough backgrounds, power-ups and other extras to keep players from getting bored. It's not perfect, but it's easily the best Spider-Man game to date.

Spidey has seen better days in other Acclaim carts. Although the intentions were good, the game play doesn't match the marquee appeal. For more amazing arachnid action, check out Spider-Man and X-Men in Arcade's revenge.

Spider-Man just doesn't have it in this one - the graphics are sloppy (like the kicks and punches) and the control is adequate at best. The cameos by other superheroes are cool, but can't make up for the other poor elements.

Don't be fooled! Rent it first just to see for yourself. I don't care how cool the "limited edition red cartridge" is.