As we move deeper into the new year, one thing has become very clear: this new Spider-Man — Norman Osborn — is truly settling into his role as a reformed hero. What makes this run so compelling is how often Norman reminds himself of a simple but powerful mantra: What would Peter do? That question hangs over this entire series, and it’s especially important here. We are constantly reminded that Peter Parker will always be the original Spider-Man — the gold standard. But that doesn’t mean others can’t try to live up to those ideals in their own way. And that’s exactly what Norman Osborn is doing.
This is what makes the current Amazing Spider-Man run so strong. It isn’t just a gimmick or a shock value replacement. It’s a true redemption arc — one that understands that redemption doesn’t erase the past. It forces you to face it.
PROS
Redemption doesn’t mean escape — Norman’s past comes for him
The emotional weight of this issue hits hard because Norman is finally being forced to confront the full consequences of his past. That is the entire point of this chapter. Under the leadership of Kingsley, a group of Goblin Slayers — or Osborn Slayers — has formed. Their goal is simple and ruthless: eliminate Norman Osborn, wipe out the Goblin legacy, and destroy anyone connected to him.
These aren’t random villains. These are people whose lives were shattered by Norman — whether as the Green Goblin, as a corporate monster, or even during his time connected to the Avengers. The message is clear: Norman Osborn has hurt a lot of people, and those sins don’t just disappear because he wants to be better now.
Watching Norman realize that his past is catching up with him — in violent, unavoidable ways — gives this issue real emotional teeth.
Even the Goblin Slayers have a code
What makes the Goblin Slayers fascinating is that they aren’t portrayed as cartoonishly evil. Some of them have a moral code. And that code begins to crack when the violence escalates — especially when Norman’s family becomes a target.
There are moments of discomfort within their ranks. Lines are being crossed. And that tension makes the conflict feel grounded and real, not black and white.
Norman’s breaking point — family above all else
The issue truly shines when Norman goes berserk after his family is threatened. This is where the writing digs deep into his psychology. We get flashbacks to Norman’s childhood — moments showing how his ruthless, abusive father tortured him under the guise of “teaching life lessons.”
The most important lesson drilled into him?
Everyone else doesn’t matter. Family does.
And that lesson stuck.
Seeing Norman’s past trauma resurface in moments of crisis makes his reaction understandable — and terrifying. This is a man trying to be better while still carrying scars that never healed.
The Spider-Family stands together
One of the most satisfying elements of this issue is watching the Spider-Man family come together despite their complicated history with Norman. Miles, Gwen, and the rest of the crew step into the fight, proving that when things get ugly, the Spider-Family always shows up.
This turns the issue into a full-scale war:
Spider-Man Family vs. Goblin / Osborn Slayers.
The action is wild, chaotic, and relentless — exactly what readers have been waiting for. It feels earned. It feels explosive.
Norman steps up when it matters most
What really sells Norman’s growth is that he realizes his Spider-Family needs him — and he answers that call. He doesn’t hesitate. He doesn’t run. He steps into the role, fully aware of the risk.
The moment where Norman saves Gwen — only to go down himself shortly after — is incredibly effective. Gwen’s panic feels real, raw, and earned. This isn’t just about losing a fighter; it’s about losing someone who just proved he belongs.
Fast-paced writing and hard-hitting art
The script moves fast without losing clarity. Every scene builds momentum, and the art makes every explosion, punch, and collapse feel massive. This is the big payoff issue — everything finally blows up, and it’s exactly the kind of chaos the story has been building toward.
Aunt May’s sass — a perfect touch
A small but wonderful highlight: Aunt May. Her sass at the beginning of the issue is classic and perfectly placed. It’s a reminder that even in a story this dark, Spider-Man’s world always has room for humanity and sharp wit.
CONS
Norman going down worries me
My only real concern is how badly Norman is taken out by the end of the issue. I genuinely hope this isn’t the end of his run as Spider-Man. He’s finally growing into the role, and I’d love to see him continue carrying that banner into the new year.
FINAL GRADE: A+
Conclusion
I don’t know how long Norman Osborn’s time as Spider-Man will last — but right now, I’m fully invested. Watching him evolve, struggle, and grow while being haunted by the weight of his past has been fascinating. He may be “purged” of his sins, but that doesn’t mean he’s totally free from them. He’s trying to survive, to do good, and to live with the damage he caused — day in and day out.
And that struggle?
That’s what makes this run special.
English (US) · 