Spider-Man - Platinum (PS)

Whether you're a fan from the 1960s or not even remotely familiar with the Spider-Man comic, you will get caught in his web. You'll see that despite its few flaws and the limitations of the PlayStation hardware, Spider-Man is the best based-on-a-superhero video game ever released. A crime has been committed and (as often happens) our hero has been framed. As the game progresses, you'll find that all is not as it seems and that many of Spidey's enemies including Venom, Carnage, Mysterio and Rhino are all out to squash the spider's quest to clear his name. Fortunately, Spider-friends like Daredevil, Human Torch and Punisher are here to help Spider-Man and keep the story moving. Like the comics, ol' webhead can climb most walls and ceilings, swing from rooftop to rooftop and, of course, do whatever a spider can. With his constant web slinging and acrobatic hand-to-hand fisticuffs, it's easy to feel that you are Spider-Man.

The characters and scenery are nicely recreated here by making great use of the aging PlayStation's graphics prowess. Spidey's ability to climb walls and ceilings does present problems with camera angles from time to time, occasionally making it tough to watch Spidey as he fights his way through some of the game's levels. While it can be frustrating, the overall camera work and graphics of Spider-Man are still amazing with Spider-Man becoming translucent if he gets in the way of the camera. In fact, the gameplay is so good, most seasoned gamers will devour the game in day or two, which makes Spider-Man a woefully short game. Cherish the time you have in these red and blue tights; this game is escapism at its best. --Mark Brooks

As the beloved photojournalist-cum-webslinger, you'll freely explore New York's skyline, sewers, and hideouts to fulfil several missions. Use Spider-Man's superhuman strength to fight such notorious foes as Scorpion, Venom and Rhino. Use his spider abilities to spin webs (any size) to disable and detain bosses, swing around buildings, and creep along walls and ceilings. And thanks to your spider-sense, you'll detect impending danger from a distance. There is no wealth or fame at the end of this game, however; action is your reward.

Spider-Man is the first free roaming, 3-D action/adventure game featuring the most recognized super-hero of all time. Players can employ all of Spider-Man's trademark skills, including web slinging, wall crawling, agility and "Spider-Sense". Players must utilize Spider-Man's super strength and superior wit to battle evil-doers and protect the innocent as they help solve a variety of puzzles and defeat old and new super villains alike.