Spider-Man has sured his 1000th issue in 2022 and continues to be one of the most popular comic book characters in the industry's history. While the focus will largely be on Peter Parker's archives here, there is a small nod to Miles Morales as well, who will continue to take the reins in years to come, especially when it comes to fantastic one-shots.
Most of those stories that made up such a fantastic run were larger arcs. However, one-shots are a brilliant way of telling shorter narratives that still pack a punch and help to portray Spider-Man in a slightly different light. There are countless amazing issues, although some of the best of all time contribute to the larger Marvel tapestry.
Amazing Fantasy 1000 (2022)
Spider-Man's anniversary was a massive deal for the character and Amazing Fantasy 1000 decided to celebrate the occasion by becoming a massive one-shot of... lots of little one-shots. The comic was a fantastic idea, with multiple writers and artists getting to tell their mini-stories about the web-slinger.
The issue focused on what Spider-Man meant to people, investigating his legacy at different times throughout his career. It's an all-time great contribution to Peter Parker's lore and wasn't bound by the traditional limits set upon his run, with the narratives taking place across different eras and universes.
Miles Morales & Moon Girl (2022)
While Peter Parker will be the focus right now, it's important to shine a light on how Miles Morale's adventures are also mirroring that of his mentor and inspiration. Morales has far fewer one-shots to pick from, but a recent addition demonstrates what he brings to the table.
Miles Morales & Moon Girl from writer Mohale Mashigo and artist Ig Guara sees Morales embark on a small-scale adventure as Lunella Lafayette begins the search for her missing friend, Devil Dinosaur. It demonstrates how Morales can connect with younger heroes in this unlikely pairing and indeed audiences on a different level while also showcasing his intelligence and unique abilities.
Superman Vs. The Amazing Spider-Man (1976)
It might seem impossible to think about considering DC and Marvel have been very separated for a long period, but the two brands used to cross over. The first time this ever took place was in a one-shot titled Superman Vs. The Amazing Spider-Man, starring the two titular characters alongside one another.
Written by Gerry Conway with art from Dick Giordano, it sees the two heroes battle before their arch nemeses push them a little too far. They thus must team up to defeat a combination of Lex Luthor and Doctor Octopus in a superhero display that made fans' dreams come true.
Spider-Man/Dr. Strange: The Way To Dusty Death (1992)
Spider-Man and Doctor Strange's relationship has been well-established on the big screen, but the origins of that partnership can be found in the comics. Often, one-shots can be relatively low-stakes, character-driven pieces, but Spider-Man/Doctor Strange: The Way To Dusty Death was anything but.
The story was written by Roy Thomas and Gerry Conway with art from Michael Bair. It was refreshing to see Spidey placed within a supernatural setting, with the dark threat far too big for just a single hero to face. With cameos from across the magic side of Marvel, the duo was united in confronting Xandu who was dealing in sinister sorcery.
Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man: Spider-Bite (2019)
Now and then the writers of Spider-Man decide they will embark on telling a story that truly shows the positive impact that the web-slinger can have on the world. Spider-Bite is one such example, with Tom Taylor producing the story and Juan Cabal working on the art.
It sees Spidey away from the street-level villains and neighborhood saving for the day and instead allows him to interact with a kid who always wanted to meet his hero. As this child battles cancer, Spider-Man inducts him into his secret life, nicknaming him Spider-Bite and helping his dreams to be a vigilante come true.
Spider-Man Vs. The Punisher (2000)
Certain characters are super compelling to see together, because of their very distant ideologies. Spider-Man and The Punisher are perfect examples, with the webhead very much against the methods of criminal combat that Frank Castle utilizes.
Spider-Man Vs. The Punisher is a retelling of the first time these two individuals met, addressing the narrative from a slightly more modern perspective to play upon those differences further, now that audiences know the characters. It's a fascinating one-shot from writer Joseph Harris and artist Michael Lopez.
King In Black: Spider-Man (2021)
The King in Black narrative took up a large portion of 2021, with the Venom-led crossover event of course including Spider-Man, whose history is intertwined with that of Eddie Brock. The one-shot saw Spidey doing his thing, saving as many people as possible from the Symbiote invasion.
Not only does the one-shot remind readers of what makes Peter Parker a hero, but it also sees the return of Avengers Academy alumnus Reptil. The mentor role that Spider-Man consequently picks up demonstrates how inspirational he is, even to his peers. It's a great entry into the franchise from writer Jed Mackay and pencilers Michele Bandini and Alberto Alburquerque.
Spider-Man Vs. Wolverine (1986)
'Versus' one-shots were all the rage back in the earlier days of comics, as fans imagined what it would be like to see two of their favorite heroes do battle. Spider-Man Vs. Wolverine is a fantastic display of that concept in action and a visual delight throughout.
Written by Jim Owsley with art from Mark Bright, the story sees Spider-Man embarking on a mission that gets him in way over his head, as he is confronted by Logan as he searches for his friend. Familiar tropes ensue including a battle and a team-up, in an era-defining entry that somehow feels quite contemporary in its storytelling.
Ultimate Spider-Man: Detention (2000)
The Ultimate Spider-Man brand might have been redefined by animated shows and the creation of Miles Morales, but there were a few important one-shots throughout Peter Parker's time in the universe that explored what it was like to be a teenager and a hero from a different perspective.
The one-shot Detention by writer Brian Michael Bendis and artist Mark Bagley places Peter in detention among some of his other peers. The real-world issues that a young man has to deal with are front and center, while he and his friends continue to mourn a recent loss that puts superhero life into a stark viewpoint.
Spider-Man 2099 Meets Spider-Man (1995)
Spider-Man 2099 is one of the most important figures in the wider Spider-Verse and has since crossed over with Peter Parker on multiple occasions. However, Spider-Man 2099 Meets Spider-Man is a significant issue for building their relationship and expanding the multiverse.
Written by Peter David with the visual stylings of Rick Leonardi, it's an interesting concept that sees each hero thrust into the life of the other. 2099 must fight the modern-day Venom while original recipe Peter attempts to beat the futuristic Vulture plaguing the city. It's a perfect display of the breadth of storytelling opportunities.