Return of a very familiar foe.
Originally written 10-1-10
The ups and downs in Peter Parker's life is never-ending. After saving an ungrateful J.Jonah Jameson from being killed, his Aunt May suffers an attack during a protest and is hospitalized. To make matters worst, The Green Goblin/Harry Osborn has returned and he's more blood thirsty than ever. Spider-Man must try to defeat his friend, yet greatest enemy without seriously hurting him with Aunt May's condition on his mind. -summary
The Green Goblin character was an instant classic in the Spider-man mythos. He was definitely a threat to the wall-crawler due to his intelligence and physical prowess; but what made him an even greater threat was that he knew the man behind the mask. The original Green Goblin, Norman Osborn, used the knowledge of Spider-Man's secret identity to his advantage and brought him unending grief. Therefore, after his death in Amazing Spider-Man #122, it only made sense to revive the character because he brought out the best in his arch-nemesis. However, this time, it would be his son Harry Osborn wearing the mask, and he would go on to carry his fathers hateful legacy.
The Amazing Spider-Man: A New Goblin is a five part arc that collects The Amazing Spider-Man issues #176-180 which debut in 1977, and is written by Len Wein with Pencils by Ross Andru. The writing is pretty good because it manged to take at least three subplots, balance them out with great pacing, and deliver a good ending. The plot becomes a little more interesting, when the Green Goblin decides to muscle out crimelord Silvermane, as they both seek to merge the gangs in New York City to become the head guy. Spider-Man soon finds himself in deeper hot-water, when the Goblin threatens to reveal his identity to the mob, as well as capture him to secure his seat at the top.
The plot never became dull to me due to the proper meshing of drama and action. The only issue that I have with the writing is the incredibly predictable plot twist. There's always the chance that the face under the Goblin mask is someone different this time around; but it's never a real question on who the Goblin is, and I felt the necessary clues were too in your face. This is some of what adds to the dated feel.
The artwork has its good moments concerning the stylish action panels, which are plenty by the way. There are several exchanges between Spider-man and The Green Goblin, and they also get a bit of time to show off their individual skills by manhandling Silvermane's goons. The facial expressions are also done well, and even funny at times displaying pure uncontrolled rage.
Spider-Man: A New Goblin is a good story, but I don't think it's on the same level at all with earlier Goblin stories or even future ones. To include, this Goblin is not even close to the same level of Norman Osborn. Still, I think it holds up pretty well even now, and it would make a great addition to any Spidey fans collection.
Pros: Action, artwork, just a cool a villain altogether
Cons: Way too predictable, has a dated feel to it