The Superior Foes of Spider-Man is one of those comics that people may avoid due to feeling that Marvel is simply trying to cash in on the success of Superior Spider-Man, however, the comic is much more than that. Superior Foes of Spider-Man is in the same vein as another Marvel title, Hawkeye. We get to learn more about the new Sinister Six as they go about their daily regular lives (spoiler: it’s doesn’t go very well) and attempting to pull off capers despite Spider-Man’s existence. As someone who typically sticks to DC (my wallet can only handle so much), this was the first comic from Marvel outside of Hawkeye to make it onto my pull list. It’s a great time to start reading as well since there are currently only two issues published.

The lineup of the Sinister Six in this book are Boomerang, Shocker, Overdrive, Speed Demon, and Beetle (yes, there are only five of them). Not exactly an A-List lineup for those familiar with Spider-Man from most other mediums, but it works great nevertheless. IIn the first issue, the reader is introduced to Fred Myers, otherwise known as Boomerang who provides the narration. We get to learn how he became Boomerang in both an effective and hilarious couple of pages. The issue itself is funny and an entertaining read at the same time. One actually ends up sympathizing with some of the members of the Sinister Six. Their attempts at robbery to say the least aren’t very good.

Issue two continues the strong writing and art of the first issue. Watching Boomerang attempt to run the Sinister Six is great but arguably the best part of the issue comes when he’s dealing with his lawyer. The entire group play extremely well off one another, making the book definitely something worth reading.

Some may complain that Nick Spencer is trying too hard as a writer at times with the humor, but I think the vast majority of the jokes work perfectly. He’s also able to mix a good number of serious moments within the humor so the characters don’t just become completely jokey. I definitely have to say Spencer’s ability to make me sympathize with some of the characters in their failed adventures (especially Boomerang) is evidence of his writing ability. On a related note, Steve Lieber’s art is also wonderful and it really is the small things he does that end up making the art wonderful to see.

Overall, The Superior Foes of Spider-Man is a great read and certainly at least worth picking up for a few issues. The humor has been effective thus far and I hope that continues to be the case. I think Marvel may have struck gold by making a book similar to Hawkeye, but with villains.