In 1992 Marvel Comics released its line of comics based on their properties set in the year 2099. This project featured series based on Dr. Doom amongst others, but the clear standout was Spider-Man 2099 by Peter David and Rick Leonardi. The book focused on genetic engineer genius Miguel O’Hara who wound up being the Spider-Man of the year 2099. The character was quite likeable, and the creative team of David and Leonardi didn’t hurt things either. While the character was enjoyable and the book sustained a healthy run, it eventually went the way of most alternate reality offshoots and disappeared into obscurity while remaining a popular addition to the Spider-Man mythos.
MINOR SPOILERS BELOW
Fast forward 22 years later. Spider-Man is hotter than ever and gearing up for an epic Spidey event. Enter the return of Spider-Man 2099. Even though I don’t really follow the Spider titles these days, I couldn’t help but pick up the relaunch of Spidey 2099 out of nostalgia.
Marvel made the wise decision to bring back creator Peter David to handle the writing chores. And, though I long for the beautifully stylistic renderings of comic veteran Rick Leonardi, Will Sliney more than holds his own as series artist. (I wouldn’t poo poo a guest stint by Leonardi at the same time.)
The more things change, the more they stay the same.
This book very much has the feel of its predecessor with a significant twist:
Spoiler – Spider-Man 2099 is now trapped in 2014!
The book is off to a good start, as Miguel moves into a questionable, new apartment with a possible romantic interest in his aloof, pink-haired building superintendent and a Clark Kent/Lois Lane reminiscent relationship with co-worker Liz Allen. Throw a lighthearted battle with a combatant from the future sent here to stamp out Spidey 2099, and Peter David doesn’t miss a beat picking up where the flavor of the original series left off. While I’m not a big fan of superhero offshoots, I’ve always had a soft spot in my heart for Miguel O’Hara and look forward to following his brand-spanking-new Spidey adventures.
Spider-Man 2099 #1 is on sale now from Marvel Comics.
