More Movie Mayhem

Not too long ago, the mention of a video game based on a movie would result in apathetic reactions from consumers and video game critics alike, no matter how anticipated the film. But have no fear, web-slingers and buccaneers, two upcoming blockbuster films will buck the trend this summer.

Captain Jack Sparrow returns, looking more dastardly and tipsy than ever before, in Disney Interactive's game adaptation of the upcoming film. Players can swashbuckle their way through 11 worlds from the second and third installments of the movie franchise (fitting, since no stand-alone game was released based on Dead Man's Chest). The playable characters are Jack, Elizabeth Swann and Will Turner, but some levels require help from other notables that you can switch to in times of need. Swords are the weapon of choice and can also be used to help climb terraces or ignite cannons. Pick up a knife to throw at an enemy, but if it merely gets implanted in a leg, he can pull it out and use it against you and spoil your raid. The game is scheduled for release on May 22, three days before the film hits screens.

In Spider-Man 3 from Santa Clara, Calif.-based Activision, Peter Parker not only has to deal with his arch nemesis Sandman, but a new black suit that offers corrupting power. Luckily, the gamer gets to unleash that aggressiveness during game play in a larger, free-roaming New York City. Similar to the second installment based on Spider-Man 2, players can swing through the city, especially on the Wii version, where a flick of the wrist shoots out webbing as you soar from building to building. The game follows a storyline from the movie and beyond, with side missions pitting Spidey against rival street gangs as well as keeping the peace on the streets of Manhattan and battling movie villains Sandman, Venom and the Green Goblin. Its release date is set for May 4, the same day the movie premieres.