I can’t even begin this review without first saying just how much I’ve been enjoying Spider-Man ’94. From the very first issue, this series completely transported me back to the good old days of the classic animated series from my childhood. The tone, the colors, the dialogue, the pacing — it all felt like opening a time capsule while still reading something fresh and modern. So you can imagine my shock when I finished this issue and realized… this is the last one. For now, at least.
I genuinely wasn’t ready for it to end so quickly — five issues felt way too short for a ride this good. But even with that sudden ending, what we got here was something special. This series was a wild, emotional, action-packed journey, and I truly hope this isn’t the end of the Spider-Man ’94 franchise. Whether in comic book form or, if a miracle happens, back as an animated continuation — I’m keeping my fingers crossed.
PROS
Kaine finally shines — and becomes his own man
This issue belongs to Kaine.
For the first few chapters, we’ve seen him portrayed as fragile, unstable, and struggling — both physically and emotionally. But here? He has fully transcended Morlun.
Mentally.
Psychologically.
Physically.
You can feel it in the dialogue. You can see it in the art. Kaine isn’t reacting anymore — he’s acting with clarity and purpose. He finally becomes his own man, no longer defined solely by pain or rage.
At first, Kaine sets out with the intent to violently end Morlun’s life. But through Spider-Man — through Peter’s lived experiences, his losses, his compassion — Kaine learns something deeper: that being human, flawed, and capable of love is what truly gives life meaning.
Instead of killing Morlun, Kaine does something far more powerful.
He becomes one with him.
Kaine chose to turn their combined existence into a force for good — using both lives to improve the world rather than destroy it. It’s a bold, emotional choice, and it lands beautifully.
A full-blown battle royale — and it’s glorious
The action in this issue is absolutely insane.
Watching Spider-Man and Kraven the Hunter go head-to-head against both Kaine and Morlun is pure comic-book joy. It’s chaotic, explosive, and perfectly paced.
Every punch feels heavy.
Every move feels desperate.
This is one of those fights you just want to slow down and admire panel by panel because it’s such a thrill to read.
Kraven’s unexpected softness — love over the hunt
Kraven’s arc in this issue genuinely surprised me. He starts off as the ruthless, murderous hunter we all know — but through his experiences with Kaine and Spider-Man, something shifts.
He realizes that love — not conquest — is the greatest thing life has to offer.
And instead of rejecting that realization, he embraces it. He chooses to carry that love forward into the rest of his life. It’s a powerful transformation, and it’s handled with sincerity instead of irony.
Even more beautiful is how Kaine is able to appreciate life and love because of Kraven and Spider-Man. These characters all change each other in meaningful ways.
Aunt May steps fully into Peter’s world
The ending gives us one of my favorite Aunt May portrayals in a long time. She’s shown as wise, strong, and incredibly perceptive. Now it is clear to all that she is fully aware that Peter is Spider-Man, she doesn’t try to shut that part of his life out.
Yes, she worries.
Yes, she cries.
But she also supports him.
She wants to be part of that side of Peter’s life — to understand it, to stand beside him, and to help however she can. It’s touching and empowering, and it feels true to the spirit of the character.
Peter and MJ — finally, really, officially, married
Seeing Peter and MJ truly get married and begin their lives together as husband and wife is incredibly satisfying. It feels earned. It feels hopeful. And it sets the tone for an exciting future for the Spider-Man family.
After everything they’ve been through, this moment feels like a promise — that better days can exist, even after immense hardship.
CONS
It ended way too fast
Honestly, this is the only real downside: I was not ready for this series to end so soon. Five issues flew by, and I wanted more time with these versions of the characters. The good news is that the final pages clearly hint that more adventures could come if the demand is there — and I truly hope Marvel listens.
FINAL GRADE: A
Conclusion
Spider-Man ’94 #5 is an excellent blast from the past and a meaningful step forward for the franchise. It honors the animated series legacy while delivering strong emotional arcs, thrilling action, and genuine character growth. Every major player evolves — some literally, some emotionally — and no one is left behind. This series proves that nostalgia doesn’t have to mean stagnation. It can be a foundation for something new, powerful, and full of heart.
Here’s hoping this isn’t goodbye — just see you later.
English (US) · 