Spider-Man & Venom: Separation Anxiety is a side-scrolling beat 'em up action game developed by Software Creations and published by Acclaim Entertainment in 1995. A sequel to Spider-Man & Venom: Maximum Carnage, it first launched on Sega Mega Drive/Genesis and Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES), then was ported to PC.
Loosely based on Marvel's *Venom: Lethal Protector* comic series, the game follows Spider-Man and Venom teaming up to fight the evil symbiote Carnage and his minions. Players can choose single-player or co-op mode, taking on the role of Spider-Man or Venom to traverse city streets, forests, and underground facilities while battling hordes of enemies, including the well-armed The Jury and Venom's symbiote offspring.
During gameplay, players can collect superhero icons to summon other Marvel Universe heroes for backup, such as Captain America, Ghost Rider, Hawkeye, and Daredevil, who provide temporary combat support.
However, despite adding co-op mode and multiple superhero cameos, the game was criticized for its repetitive level design and unoriginal gameplay. Many reviews noted it was similar to its predecessor in graphics, sound, and gameplay but lacked innovative elements, making it hard to stand out among numerous beat 'em up action games.
Overall, Spider-Man & Venom: Separation Anxiety gives players a chance to fight alongside Marvel superheroes, but fails to match the success of its predecessor due to its repetitiveness and lack of originality.
