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Stan Lee’s Video Game Cameos, In Honor of His 96th Birthday

Stan Lee, known the world over as the enthusiastic and charismatic creator of the Marvel Universe as we currently know it, sadly passed away in November of this year at the age of 95. The characters he co-created, including Spider-Man, Iron Man, the Fantastic Four and the X-Men, have brought joy to millions and taught multiple generations the power of imagination. It seemed only fitting then, on what would have been his 96th birthday, to fondly remember his video game cameos!

While Stan Lee appeared in video games far less than movies, he did have a few worthwhile cameos including a particularly interesting DLC adventure where he took on the powers of Spider-Man to hunt down a lost script.

The Amazing Spider-Man (2012, Xbox 360, PS3, Wii, Wii U and PS Vita)

Photo Credit: Amazing Spider-Man 1
Photo Credit: Amazing Spider-Man 1

Those who pre-ordered this movie tie-in received a code for the Stan Lee Adventure Pack where players got to take control of Mr. Lee, dressed in a suit and tie, and swing him around town with all the agility of Spider-Man. What resulted was a hilarious and memorable mission that paid tribute to the legacy Mr. Lee had created while also showing that the developers weren’t afraid to have a bit of fun with their game.

The Amazing Spider-Man 2 (2014, Xbox 360, Xbox One, PS3 and PS4)

Photo Credit: Amazing Spider-Man 2
Photo Credit: Amazing Spider-Man 2

While not hilarious like his appearance in the first game, it was still nice to see Stan Lee back in another role. In this tie-in to the second Spider-Man movie (of the Andrew Garfield reboots), Mr. Lee portrays an elderly comic book shop owner who sometimes gives Peter Parker advice and helps him cope with the passing of his uncle. The exchanges between the two were endearing, funny and led to some of the most heart wrenching moments in the game.

Lego Marvel’s Avengers (2016, PS4, Xbox One, PS3, Xbox 360)

Photo Credit: Lego Marvel Avengers
Photo Credit: Lego Marvel Avengers

Known for including everything and everyone from a property in their games, it makes sense then that Stan Lee showed up in Lego’s Avengers. Sticking with the always playful vibe that resonates throughout all Lego adventures, Mr. Lee shows up in this game complete with multiple powers, including the ability to wear the Hulkbuster armor (which just so happens to come complete with a giant pencil attached).

Lego Marvel Super Heroes (2013, PS4, Xbox One, Xbox 360, PS3)

Photo Credit: Marvel Super Heroes
Photo Credit: Marvel Super Heroes

Another Lego game, another Stan Lee cameo. Mr. Lee is available as a playable character in this game, which you can then use to replay levels, and he even features the ability to turn into a “Stan-Hulk” which is essentially Hulk, but with Stan Lee’s unmistakable mustache. Running through the levels as super heroes is fun but running through the levels as a super powered Stan Lee is even better.

Lego Marvel Super Heroes 2 (2017, PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch)

I’m sure you’re not surprised that Stan Lee returned for the sequel, right? This time around he has new powers, including those of Spider-Man and Thor, making him a well-rounded character to take on almost any challenge the game could throw at you. Also, it never gets old throwing a regular man into these super hero situations and watching the chaos unfold around him.

Marvel Ultimate Alliance 2 (2009, PS3, Xbox 360, Wii, DS, PS2 and PSP)

Photo Credit: Marvel Ultimate Alliance 2
Photo Credit: Marvel Ultimate Alliance 2

In this acclaimed RPG Stan Lee makes an appearance as a Senator and later gets saved by some Marvel heroes. It is a small role, but a memorable one none the less.

Marvel’s Spider-Man (2018, PS4)

Photo Credit: Marvel's Spider-Man
Photo Credit: Marvel’s Spider-Man

Stan Lee’s last video game cameo is fitting, since it is the one that most closely resembles his movie cameos. At the end of a mission there is a brief scene where Peter Parker and Mary Jane are talking in a diner. The camera pans away to find Stan Lee as a short order cook, who them comments on the on and off again couple. Short and sweet, the cameo is a fitting end to his video game appearances.

Honorable Mentions:

Stan Lee’s Hero Command, Spider-Man: Shattered Dimensions, Spider-Man and Spider-Man 2: Enter Electro.

Stan Lee did not make an appearance in any of these games, but he is still present. In Spider-Man, Spider-Man 2 and Shattered Dimensions he serves as the game’s narrator and Hero Command is a game created by Stan Lee’s company for mobile users.

Stan Lee’s legacy will endure for years to come. Here’s hoping we continue to see his spirit live on through future video game and movie cameos! Happy birthday Mr. Lee!

What was your favorite Stan Lee cameo? Are there any that we missed? Let us know in the comments!