Marvel’sSpider-Manjust got an Infinity Stone upgrade, but certainly not the one you’d expect. Derek Landy’s Infinity Watch series has introduced a new universe where the power of the infinity stones are living heroes themselves. The latest issue has given us our first look at this universeSpider-man, and his new lookisn’t nearly as impressive as you’d think.
Illustrated by Enid Balam, Infinity Watch #2 sees Spider-man leap into action after the hobgoblin tries to kidnap Harry Osborn. Both Spidey and Hobgoblin are drastically dressed downcompared to what we’ve seen in the past, rocking jeans boots, and standard tactical equipment.
This reimagining of their rivalry feels like a “Year Zero” retelling of Spider-Man’s earliest days, stripping both characters down to their most basic forms. Their more grounded depictions seem to highlight the stark concentration of power in this alternate reality, where those without the Infinity Stones are notably weaker.
A New Look for a New Reality
Spidey and Hobgoblin Get a Grounded Redesign
Spider-Man’s latest redesign strips away the high-tech suits and upgrades fans have seen in recent years, opting for a homemade aestheticreminiscent of his recent TV series. Spider-man even mentions during this encounter thathe’s using his webbing for the very first time, which is odd given that he already knows this universe’s Hobgoblin. Similarly, Hobgoblin’s design also leans into a grittier, more stripped-down look, making their rivalry feel like a fresh take on a classic confrontation.
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Spidey’s encounter with Hobgoblin suggests that this version of Peter Parker may not have the abilities fans expect. He doesn’t swing in with his webs, he doesn’t scale walls, and he never showcases any superhuman strength. Instead, he moves like an ordinary person, relying on grounded combat and strategy rather than any enhanced abilities. It is possiblethis universe’s Spider-Man may not even have superhuman powers at allbut instead operates as a gadget-driven vigilante.
A New Twist on an Old Rivalry
The Hierarchy Of Power Has Changed
Beyond the mystery of Spider-Man’s power level,Infinity Watch #2also introduces a surprising shake-up for Hobgoblin. The revelation that Hobgoblin is not Harry Osborn adds another layer of intrigue to this altered reality. What’s even stranger is that Peter already seems to know who he is—suggesting thatwhatever history these two share is unfolding differently in this new reality. The dynamic between Spider-Man and Hobgoblin feels fresh, creating a new version of their age-old rivalry, complete with its own nuances and secrets.
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The fact that Spider-Man barely factors into this larger cosmic conflict further underscores his place in this universe. With the Infinity Watchcomprised of literal living Infinity Stones,those without their influence—like Spider-Man—are notably less powerful. This shift redefineswho the primary players are in this reality, leaving street-level heroes like Spider-Man feeling smaller than ever. While Spider-Man’s unexpected downgrade is significant,Infinity Watch #2ultimately showcases just how drastically the Marvel Universe has been reshaped.
Marvel’sInfinity Watch #2is available now, and Infinity Watch #3 arrives on August 22, 2025.
Spider-Man
Spider-Man is the name given to several individuals who have employed a spider-moniker throughout Marvel Comics. Typically gaining their powers through a bite from a radioactive spider, the different Spider-Man heroes employ super-strength, agility, and intellect while utilizing webbing to swing and tangle up their foes. The most notable of these Spider-Men is Peter Parker, who remains one of the most popular superheroes throughout the world.
