It's amazing how much trouble Activision goes through for its Spider-Man license. It is by all accounts a cash cow for them. But we know what most companies do with cash cows: they milk 'em for all they're worth. But while you may see a new Spider-Man game each year, "milking" isn't the word for what Activision has done this fall. There's a better word to describe their development strategy: variety.

Unlike most games, which are ported to as many platforms as possible, Spider-Man: Web of Shadows is available in three distinctly different forms: a familiar sequel for PS3 and Xbox 360 (a similar version is also on Wii); an entirely different side-scrolling game for PS2 (known as the Amazing Allies Edition); and this DS version, which is also a side-scroller but offers different moves and levels, superior controls, and other notable features. Though the PS2 version is worth playing, this is the only version that's worthy of being called a must-own adventure.

We've yet to play a perfect Spider-Man game, but Web of Shadows has achieved perfection in one key area: seamless controls. This superhero has a long history of games that control really well, but there is always at least one flaw that holds it back. Not true for Web of Shadows.

Both the jump and swing mechanics are tied to the B button, which is common for the series. Press Y repeatedly to perform a punch-kick combo, and tap the A button to fire a web blast that will either pull Spider-Man toward the environment (if you hit a wall or ceiling) or remove a barrier blocking your progress (if you hit a large object). Pretty standard stuff – and yet, thanks to great level design and most importantly the way the controls feel, the whole experience comes off as a game that has been polished to perfection. No, the overall design is not without flaw. But the controls are impeccable. You aren't merely playing as Spider-Man -- you finally become him.

As luck would have it, black suit Spider-Man has come along for the ride, so you'll become him as well. His combos differ from normal (red suit) Spidey, as do his special moves, which include an aerial slam-down (he has the ability to slam into the ground after jumping; an upgrade adds bounce to this move, allowing you to juggle enemies for more damage). On the flip side, normal Spider-Man can jump and use his web to pull himself toward enemies with a cool kick move. He can also knock down and inflict damage on enemies while swinging. Black suit Spider-Man has super strength and can dash forward at any time. Contrary to the PS2 version, this move's primary goal is not to blast through walls. Instead, he'll use it to bash enemies – with an upgrade, this move can be combined with a web shot that, after the enemy has been knocked backwards, pulls him back toward Spider-Man for a second hit. Meanwhile, normal Spider-Man can temporarily stun enemies by tying their arms with web; after acquiring the proper upgrade, he can toss restrained enemies into the air before they break free, creating another combo opportunity.

Upgrades are obtained the same way they are in every action game released since Onimusha: by cashing in multi-colored orbs collected by defeating enemies. Maybe it's time we've all thanked Capcom for this little invention? Web of Shadows also borrows its map from Castlevania, Resident Evil and others, minus the ability to pinpoint your exact location. Only the area you're currently exploring is confirmed – the rest must be figured out by the player. This may annoy, maybe even frustrate, an impatient or inexperienced player. But it isn't as big of a deal in this game as it might have been in a 3D title, as these levels aren't too large and the complexities are kept to a minimum. The sewer/underground* areas are a bit dark, so watch closely for any cracks or openings that may lead to another area that needs to be explored. Really, you should do your best to thoroughly explore every area – run by too fast and you'll miss out on some of the life meter-extending items (which are shaped like hearts. How very Zelda of them).

*Note: If you’ve played the PS2 version or read my review, it should be noted that environments in the DS version, no matter how similar in theme or graphic style, are not the same.

It's easy to get carried away by the speed of this game, which is the perfect balance between functionality and excitement. The insanely frequent enemy encounters, however, will inevitably slow down even the fastest of players. Mostly designed as single-colored humans/animals/blobs and other common shapes, these villains don't take "die and never return" for an answer. They love to re-spawn, especially if you leave the area and feel the urge to return. The AI isn’t exactly sharp but it’s not stupid either. Enemies are very cheap and will gang up on Spider-Man without thinking twice. Plan on dying when you least expect it – since boss battles don’t re-spawn, you should finish them pretty easily.

Health-restoring items are not plentiful. You can cheat the game into providing more whenever one is found simply by exiting and re-entering the area. But their placement is few and far between. Should you die, a red orb-collecting mini-game will begin, during which the player must use the touch screen and drag the floating orbs toward Spider-Man before the time runs out. This mini-game is not continuous: Spider-Man must possess a special item upon death or the mini-game will not be triggered. When the game ends, no continues are offered. So if you didn't already guess, let me warn you all now: save often. Nothing sucks more than regret.

Ultimately, repetition will ensue – mostly due to the frequent battles but also because of backtracking (it’s occasional but can happen), the game’s short length, similar-looking environments and the fact that there’s a limit to how much a person can do the same thing without getting anxious. The controls go a long way and are the primary reason why you’ll enjoy Web of Shadows. But there will still be times when you’ll wonder, “Didn’t I just complete a mission like this?”

These are flaws you’ll find in most action games, so don’t let them deter you. If you love Spider-Man, this is the version to own.

Gameplay: 8.0
Perfectly seamless controls, great combat, and an overall experience that is thoroughly entertaining.

Graphics: 7.5
Web of Shadows is a good-looking game but the characters are too small to appreciate the beauty on such a tiny screen. The animations are really well done, though.

Sound: 7.5
Not bad, not great. Worth a listen, but you probably won't want the speakers on for the whole game.

Difficulty: Easy/Medium
The super-cheap enemies are stronger than they first appear.

Concept: 7.9
Not a “new” Spider-Man concept but a very well polished one. Nightcrawler, Black Cat and the Green Goblin make a special appearance as bonus characters to help Spidey during certain battles.

Overall: 8.0
More of the same conceptually, but the highly polished gameplay makes it a joyous, must-play Spider-Man sequel.