- Written by: Joe Kelly, Jordan Morris
- Art by: Pere Perez
- Colors by: GURU-eFX
- Letters by: VC’s Joe Sabino
- Cover art by: Giuseppe Camuncoli, Lorenzo Ruggiero, Marte Gracia
- Cover price: $4.99
- Release date: Aprial 22, 2026
The Amazing Spider-Man: Spider-Versity #1 (Marvel, 4/22/26): Writers Joe Kelly and Jordan Morris bring the younger members of the Spider-family together to train as a team under the watchful eye of Norman Osborn and Jessica Drew. The issue is filled with youthful charm for a solid start. Verdict: Better than I expected.
First Impressions
Who doesn’t need more Spider-Boy in their life? I certainly don’t, but I have to admit this fist issue in the mini-series was pretty okay. Joe Kelly and Jordan Morris keep the trying-too-hard-to-relate-to-kids shenanigans to a minimum with a clear, straightforward setup.
Plot Analysis (SPOILERS)
The issue begins with Miles Morales assembling his fellow spiders – Ghost Spider, Spider-Boy, Silk, Spider Girl, and Araña – in an “Under Construction” building at Empire University. Miles presents his plan for the Spiders to train as a team, citing their coordinated clumsiness during fights with shared foes. The assembled Spiders agree albeit reluctantly.
Suddenly, Norman flies through the window on a Goblin Glider and attacks. Presuming Norman has returned to his evil ways, the Spiders leap into action. Sadly, Norman bests them all, taunting each one along the way. Out of the blue, Jessica Drew/Spiderwoman barges in on her motorcycle to attack Norman. Miles calls a halt to her attack when he reveals that Norman’s attack was part of an impromptu training exercise. The issue ends with the first lesson learned – expect the unexpected.
How is the story in The Amazing Spider-Man: Spider-Versity #1?
I won’t try to convince you this is the greatest story in the world, but Joe Kelly and Jordan Morris have a viable idea, and they execute it well. The Spiders are (almost) charming in their respective ways, and the idea of a “School of Spiders” could be interesting as a future team book.
How is the art in The Amazing Spider-Man: Spider-Versity #1?
Likewise, Pere Perez’s art is equally enjoyable. The action is well-choreographed and well-paced. GURU-eFX’s colors are bold, and the overall visual look of the books is fairly standard for the accepted Marvel house style. The art won’t blow you away, but it’s perfectly good.
Characters
Miles Morales is set up as the leader of the team, but every member of the team gets a moment or two to shine to get to know their personalities and brief glimpses into their capabilities. For example, is you know nothing about Spider-Girl, this issue serves as decent introduction.
Originality & Concept Execution
A school for gifted youngsters is nothing new, but Kelly and Morris rightly shy away from getting experimental. The joy of a school of this sort is seeing kids in class as they figure out themselves and each other during varied lessons. It’s likely nothing will go according to plan, but this issue is a fun start.
Pros and Cons
What We Loved
- A solid premise with amusing characters and a solid execution
- The art gives the younger characters plenty of personality
- The setup is remarkable in that it makes perfect sense without trying to get crazy or weird
Room for Improvement
- Jessica’s Drew’s appearance comes out of nowhere (literally)
- Spider-Boy’s humor dips a little too close to being obnoxious
- Norman’s “this was just a test” reveal was predictable
About The Reviewer: Gabriel Hernandez is the Publisher & EIC of ComicalOpinions.com, a comics review site dedicated to indie, small, and mid-sized publishers.
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The Scorecard
Writing Quality (Clarity & Pacing): 3/4
Art Quality (Execution & Synergy): 3.5/4
Value (Originality & Entertainment): 1.5/2
Final Thoughts
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The Amazing Spider-Man: Spider-Versity #1 is a surprisingly refreshing start for a Marvel mini-series in that it doesn’t try to subvert expectations. A group of youngsters come together to train as a team. Joe Kelly and Jordan Morris set up a common snese premise and make it work. Sometimes, that’s all you need.
8/10
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