Doctor Octopus continues his stint as Spider-Man but is this title really Superior or is it just a waste of time?  Read on to find out.

The official description from Marvel:

• The All-Now Supereir Spider-Man battles All-New Sinister Six!

• PLUS: Spider-Man and Mary Jane…REUNITED!

• PLUS: Slott and Stegman… REUNITED!

Following the events of Amazing Spider-Man #700 the world left in Peter Parker‘s wake was in for a shell-shock, as a maniacal madman took full control of our hero’s body.  He donned a new suit, took on the spectacular responsibilities and proclaimed the evolution of the storied franchise. But mysterious things have happened since then that the good doctor has failed to explain, but we as the audience now know why and that’s where this issue picks up.

The latest chapter penned by series scribe Dan Slott does an outstanding job painting the awkward but brilliant situation all of these ancillary characters now find themselves to be stuck in.  None of these people know the truth but they’re all feeling the literal consequences of this monster assuming an astonishingly important role, and the results of what he’s doing are both intriguing as well as terrifying.  There are some moments where the dialogue gets a bit too corny but these minor tangents quickly dissipate as the narrative gets right back on track.

Ryan Stegman works to deliver some expertly handled art which simply oozes with both charisma and a brilliant spark.  Each pencil stroke seems to speak out, “uniquely Spider-Man” as it seamlessly imbues every single panel with a life that echoes the traditions associated with the storied property and the new blood that now controls the creative reigns.  There are times where faces can seem a tad bit overly expressive or even misshapen but those were few and far between.

Superior Spider-Man #2 is an absolutely competent follow up that continues the quality set forth by the series opener.  Yes, the concept will surely sound silly to the uninitiated as it remains a divisive sore among fanboys and fangirls but trust, don’t knock it until you try it.  Recommended.

4/5