A Startling Reveal: Ben Reilly as the Scarlet Spider
In our latest “From Panel to Play” segment, we’re thrown for a loop! Just when you thought it was Peter Parker, a.k.a. Spider-Man, making an appearance, it turns out to be his clone—Ben Reilly as the Scarlet Spider!
The Origins of Scarlet Spider
Ben Reilly’s story begins tragically following the death of Gwen Stacy. Created by the scientist Miles Warren, Ben is a perfect clone of Peter Parker, complete with spider-like abilities and shared memories. Initially, Ben clashed with Peter under the belief that he was the original. However, he eventually accepted his identity as a clone and chose self-exile. Adopting the name ‘Ben Reilly’, a tribute to Uncle Ben and Aunt May Reilly, he eventually returned to New York. Ben teamed up with Peter to combat the city’s rising crime wave, donning his unique costume and battling various villains. His efforts earned him the moniker Scarlet Spider, a name given by none other than the Daily Bugle.
Scarlet Spider’s Game Stats
Ben Reilly, as the Scarlet Spider, possesses traits akin to Peter Parker but stands out with his unique abilities. In Marvel: Crisis Protocol, he boasts a Threat Value of 4 and has a moderate Stamina pool, featuring 6 on his Healthy side and 5 on his Injured side. His defensive stats line up as 4/3/3. Although he moves at a Medium Speed, which is slower compared to his predecessor, his mobility remains superior, similar to his Web Warrior allies.
Signature Attacks of Scarlet Spider
Scarlet Strike
Ben’s primary attack, the Scarlet Strike, is a 5-dice attack that generates Power equal to the damage dealt. It includes the Elusive rule, which, when activated by a Hit and Wild in the attack roll, allows Ben a Short advance post-attack.
Impact Webbing
A classic move borrowed from Spider-Man, Impact Webbing has a solid Range of 4 and generates 1 Power per use. It can also push enemies a Short distance away, providing strategic advantages.
Whatever a Spider Can
This powerful 5-Power cost attack boasts a Strength of 8 and embodies the essence of web-slinging. It includes two special rules: a Medium advance and the “Catch!” rule, which allows Ben to destroy and hurl terrain up to Size 2 within Range 3 at his enemies. This not only causes collision damage but also positions Ben advantageously in battle.
Dynamic Superpowers
Web Whip
Ben’s Active superpower, Web Whip, costs 2 Power and can be utilized once per turn. It enables him to push an enemy character towards him and then place himself within Range 1 of that character.
Proportionate Strength of a Spider
This superpower, costing 3 Power, allows Ben to Throw enemies of Size 3 or less within Range 3 of him Short, demonstrating his formidable strength.
Innate Abilities
Ben’s toolkit includes two Innate superpowers integral to the Web Warriors. The first is Spider-Sense, which provides up to two rerolls on his defense dice when attacked with Physical and Energy attacks. The second, Wall Crawler, grants exceptional battlefield mobility and is fundamental to the Web Warriors’ tactics.
Conclusion: The Clone Makes His Mark
With a clear distinction between the real Spider-Man and his clone, Ben Reilly’s Scarlet Spider is ready to swing into action and carve out his own heroic legacy in the streets of New York.
