Spider-Man has swung through some of the most celebrated video games in history—from the modern Marvel's Spider-Man series to the cult classic Ultimate Spider-Man. But for every blockbuster, there are a handful of lesser-known titles that deserve a second look. Whether they were overshadowed by bigger releases, trapped on handheld consoles, or simply lost to time, these six Spidey games prove that even the web-head's forgotten adventures can be surprisingly excellent.
1. Spider-Man: Battle for New York (2006)
Released on Game Boy Advance and Nintendo DS, this side-scroller is a direct prequel to the beloved Ultimate Spider-Man game. It adapts the first clash between the Ultimate universe's Spider-Man and Green Goblin, letting players take control of both hero and villain. The Goblin sections are especially fun, offering a chaotic, destructive playstyle that mirrors the best parts of the console game. Despite its handheld limitations, Battle for New York captures the spirit of the Ultimate comics and deserves far more love than it gets.
2. Spider-Man: Friend or Foe (2007)
This original story set in the Sam Raimi movie universe is a rare co-op Spider-Man game. Players team up with a friend—one as Spidey, the other as a classic villain like Green Goblin or Doc Ock—to fight a common enemy. It's a lighthearted, alternate-universe romp that lets you play as iconic Raimi baddies, something no other game has done since. For fans of the Tobey Maguire trilogy, this is a hidden gem that's perfect for a couch co-op session.
3. Spider-Man 2: Enter Electro (2001)
The sequel to the acclaimed 2000 Spider-Man game, Enter Electro is often dismissed as a lesser follow-up. But it's a solid action-adventure with improved web-swinging mechanics, a compelling story involving Electro's rise, and some of the best boss fights of the era. While it didn't surpass its predecessor, it's still a fun, polished experience that any Spidey fan should try—especially if you can find a copy of the original PlayStation version.
4. Spider-Man Unlimited (2014)
Before mobile gaming was dominated by endless runners, Spider-Man Unlimited took the Temple Run formula and added combat, boss battles, and a massive roster of Spider-People from across the multiverse. Players could unlock dozens of alternate Spideys—from Spider-Gwen to Spider-Man 2099—and compete in online events. It was addictive, visually impressive, and sadly delisted from app stores in 2019. For those who played it, it remains a fond memory of mobile gaming done right.
5. Spider-Man: Toxic City (2009)
One of the earliest mobile Spidey games, Toxic City was a 2D side-scroller that offered a full story campaign with multiple villains and unlockable costumes. It was a rare example of a mobile game that felt like a console experience, with tight controls and a surprising amount of content. Though it's been largely forgotten, it paved the way for later mobile hits like Spider-Man Unlimited.
6. Ultimate Spider-Man: Total Mayhem (2005)
This Game Boy Advance title is a beat-'em-up that adapts the early Ultimate Spider-Man comics. It features cel-shaded graphics that mimic the comic's art style, a simple but satisfying combat system, and the ability to play as both Spider-Man and Venom. While it's short, it's a perfect portable dose of Spidey action that captures the tone of the source material.
These forgotten games may not have the polish of Marvel's Spider-Man or the nostalgia of Spider-Man 2, but they each offer something unique—whether it's co-op play, villain control, or a deep dive into the Spider-Verse. So next time you're craving some web-slinging, consider giving one of these underrated titles a try. You might just discover your new favorite Spidey game.
