The Amazing Spider-Man #252 (published in May 1984 by Marvel Comics) is a landmark issue written by Tom DeFalco and Roger Stern with art by Ron Frenz. This issue introduces Spider-Man’s iconic black costume to the main Marvel Universe, marking a major change for the character and setting the stage for significant future events.
Plot Summary
The story, titled “Homecoming!”, opens with Peter Parker/Spider-Man returning to Earth after the events of Marvel Super Heroes Secret Wars, a cosmic event where many Marvel heroes and villains were transported to the distant “Battleworld” by a godlike entity known as the Beyonder. While on Battleworld, Spider-Man acquired a mysterious new black costume with advanced capabilities.
The new costume is sleek and alien in appearance, primarily black with a large white spider emblem across the chest and back. It also has unique abilities, including the ability to produce its own webbing and respond to Peter’s thoughts. However, Peter knows little about the costume’s origins or true nature.
As Peter resumes his life in New York City, he reflects on how the costume is different from his old red-and-blue suit. While testing its capabilities, he finds it more practical and functional, helping him navigate his dual life as Spider-Man and Peter Parker.
The issue also features Peter reconnecting with his loved ones and facing street-level threats, including local criminals who quickly notice Spider-Man’s new look. Despite its immediate benefits, the costume has a strange, almost sinister quality that hints at deeper mysteries to be explored in future issues.
Key Themes
- Change and Growth: The black costume represents a shift in Spider-Man’s character and powers, reflecting the broader evolution of the Marvel Universe.
- Mystery and Foreshadowing: The costume’s alien origin introduces an element of suspense, which will lead to the eventual reveal that it is a sentient symbiote.
- Homecoming and Reintegration: The issue focuses on Peter’s return to normalcy after the cosmic chaos of Secret Wars, emphasizing his grounding as a street-level hero.
Significance
- Introduction of the Black Costume: This is the first appearance of Spider-Man’s black costume in his main title, which would later be revealed as the alien symbiote that becomes Venom, one of Spider-Man’s greatest villains.
- Connection to Secret Wars: The issue ties directly to the Secret Wars crossover, bridging the gap between the cosmic event and Spider-Man’s ongoing adventures.
- Character Development: The story explores Peter’s adaptability and resilience as he adjusts to changes in his life and powers.
The Amazing Spider-Man #252 is a historic issue that not only introduced an iconic new look for Spider-Man but also laid the groundwork for one of the most important story arcs in the character’s history. It remains a must-read for fans of Spider-Man and Marvel Comics.