Next, we can have a Spider-man vs. Hobgoblin movie- because we've already had a Green Goblin centric film TWICE. So, in this version we have the Hobgoblin being someone hired by Osborn. He funds the Hobgoblin and provides him with prototype gadgetry, enabling him to be much like the comicbook counterpart. Spider-man continues to be unaware of Osborn's intentions and Hobgoblin is defeated (also, we would have some sort of inevitable B-story, perhaps introducing Harry Osborn to the school?). This film will show Osborn beginning to crack and lose his mind. However, we also begin to see him self-medicating. It's a small part of the film but this will plant important seeds for the grand climax of this phase.

Meanwhile, in other Earth based films we have rumours and rumblings of the shady business dealings that Osborn is taking part in. We see news of him buying particular companies and the science division of his company working on another attempt at the super soldier serum. Which of course he and his company will deny however the audience should begin to make connections between this information and Osborn's compulsion to self medicate. We could have SHIELD investigating him but have nothing come up. After all, Osborn is sneaky, powerful and very manipulative! I can see one of the post-credits scenes being Norman speaking to one of his allies, saying "I think it's time to work on a new Iron Patriot suit..."

Everything is going well for Spider-man and the Avengers until whatever the next large scale invasion is... It may be aliens, it may be an army of super villains. Either way, the heroes are becoming overwhelmed. The odds are against them! Until there is something that enables them to turn the tides. I'm not writing an Avengers film here, so you'll just have to roll with this vague pitch... they are about to strike a winning blow when suddenly, out of the shadows steps Norman Osborn, in his Iron Patriot armour, and potentially with his team of Dark Avengers. Of course, they don't go by the name Dark Avengers but that's what they are. Corrupt imitations of the Avengers. Semi-reformed villains in new costumes. I said potentially because we could leave them until the next film for a big reveal, it doesn't really matter.