Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 is almost here. We’ve covered Peter Parker and Miles Morales, our titular Spider-Men. However, we do have one other playable protagonist: Mary Jane Watson. Played by Laura Bailey, Mary Jane was a playable secondary protagonist in the original and acted as Peter’s confidant. Her role in Marvel’s Spider-Man 2, especially in the launch trailer, seems to indicate that she’ll be more present in the entry. This comprehensive guide will tell you all you should know about our fearless reporter Mary Jane Watson.
As expected, this guide covers everything Mary Jane in the Marvel’s Spider-Man series as well as the comics, so to avoid being spoiled, I suggest playing the games or watching a lets-play of it before reading. Our very own Chris Carter rated Marvel’s Spider-Man a 9 in his glowing review, citing Insomniac’s strong direction and fun traversal through New York. In his Marvel’s Spider-Man: Miles Morales review, Chris also gives the game a 9 as it charts a bold start for the future of the series. And, with Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 also given a 9, there’s not a better time to play. Now, without further ado, let’s hit the jackpot, shall we?
Who is Marvel Comics’ Mary Jane Watson?
Mary Jane Watson is, more often than not, the primary love interest of Peter Parker. While there is Gwen Stacy and Black Cat, it’s usually her who stays as his main flame, red hair included. Introduced by name in 1965’s Amazing Spider-Man #25, the character wouldn’t be seen until 1966 in Amazing Spider-Man #45. Ever since her iconic debut, she’s been a staple of the series for decades.
Depending on the version, Mary Jane grew up in many different places. Because of that, she gained an extroverted personality in order to make friends. When she settled in Queens, her aunt became pals with Aunt May. She later meets Peter after being set up by the two aunts and the two hit it off immediately, creating a lifelong friendship. The friendship does turn romantic and the two eventually get married.
As a character, Mary Jane is carefree but decisive. She’ll take risks if she knows they’ll pay off. Persuasive in nature, she can talk her way into and out of situations. When things go bad, she can fend for herself but usually Spider-Man’s around to lend a hand. She’s also very supportive, lending an ear to Peter’s woes and giving advice when he needs it.
Insomniac’s Version of Mary Jane Watson
What is Mary Jane Watson’s backstory?
From the start, it’s shown that Mary Jane is a freelance reporter. Hungry for the big headlines, she tracks down leads before anyone else. She’ll even sneak into heavily guarded bases if that means she’ll get the truth. This does make Peter jumpy whenever she tries stuff like that, as he doesn’t want to lose her. However, her bond with him makes them much more trusting of each other, no matter the circumstances. Still, she showcases unwavering courage and drive, as well as respect for what Peter does when he dons the suit, even if it means she plays second fiddle.
Mary Jane Watson’s relationships
While Mary Jane has some connections to other characters, the main relationship is between her and Peter Parker. Being that she knows he’s Spider-Man, she knows him inside and out, including his weaknesses. Like a seesaw, their relationship teeters from romantic to friendly, though there are times the two don’t see eye to eye. Still, as previously said, they can count on each other to do the right thing. Another main relationship she has, while not too prevalent, is one with Miles Morales and Aunt May. She’s very communicative with them, making sure they’re okay and helping them at FEAST.
Who voices Mary Jane Watson in Marvel’s Spider-Man 2?
In the series, Mary Jane is voiced by the iconic actress Laura Bailey. If you haven’t heard her name, you’ve definitely heard her voice. Previous roles include Abby in The Last of Us Part 2, Rise in Persona 4, Nadine Ross in the Uncharted series, Rayne in the Bloodrayne series, and Kait Diaz in the Gears franchise. She’s no novice to Marvel, voicing Gwen Stacy, Black Widow, Magik, and Spider-Woman in different media projects.
Comparisons between versions
How does Marvel’s Spider-Man 2’s Mary Jane Watson compare to Marvel Comics?
To start, Mary Jane is depicted as a journalist rather than an actress. This career change feels a bit more in tune with the story Insomniac wanted to tell. In the comics, she plays a more passive role, showing up for Peter when he needs it or is in trouble. With Insomniac’s version, she’s more involved, having an active role in the narrative alongside Miles Morales and Spider-Man. Though her playability is all stealthy, it shows a stark difference between the damsel in distress she’s often depicted as in other media.
Mary Jane Watson’s relationships in Marvel Comics and Marvel’s Spider-Man 2
She and Peter are more like on/off exes than super into each other. While it’s common for the characters to take breaks from each other, the game doesn’t fully push them to the side. She can live without Peter but, at the same time, wants him in her life, whether as a friend or partner. As mentioned in a previous section, the two do get married, but it remains to be seen if Insomniac will go that far in Marvel’s Spider-Man 2, as their status in the previous titles is, as many relationships are, complicated.
Connections between Marvel Comics and Marvel’s Spider-Man 2
As stated in the other character explainers, Insomniac’s Mary Jane doesn’t have any huge connections to the wider Marvel universe. This is to establish the character as its own before introducing bigger things like The Avengers or the Spider-Society. Mary Jane does get training from Black Cat in the comics before becoming Jackpot. The two do coexist in the universe, so perhaps they’ll meet.
Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 swings onto PlayStation 5 on October 20, 2023
