Warning! Spoilers for The Amazing Spider-Man #85 by Marvel Comics

The truth isn't always easy to hear, and for Spider-Man, a revelation about his biggest weakness just hit him where it hurt. In The Amazing Spider-Man #85 by Marvel Comics, following a confrontation with Doctor Octopus, Ben Reilly is told that the Beyond Corporation chose him not for his strong will but because he was "psychologically compromised" and weak. The news shocks Marvel's current Spider-Man as he immediately tries to learn if what the villain said is true.

As Peter Parker recovered from serious injuries, the Beyond Corporation's Super Hero Development team chose Ben Reilly as the new corporate-backed Spider-Man. The Beyond Corporation gave Reilly all the tech, support, and money he could ever need. However, despite Spider-Man's best intentions, the organization's ultimate goal is more about corporate interests, public appearances, and enforcing their registered trademark than ultimately doing the right thing. Reilly has rolled with the challenges the Beyond Corporation has thrown his way. But, now, he's learning the truth behind why they chose him as Spider-Man in the first place.

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In The Amazing Spider-Man #85 from Cody Ziglar, Paco Medina, Walden Wong, Espen Grundetjern, and VC's Joe Caramanga, Doctor Octopus makes his way through the Beyond Corporation. His hunch is correct, as he learns they've continued his work with Parker Industries. Soon, Spider-Man arrives on the scene, eager to prove to the world that he's worthy of the title. But, as Reilly punches Doc Ock, the villain reveals the truth behind why the Beyond Corporation chose him as Spider-Man: because he's weak and "psychologically compromised."

Otto Octavius elaborates, saying Reilly is effectively an "easily controlled lapdog prone to emotional outbursts and distractions" who's on the tight leash of Beyond Corporation. Dock Ock provides proof, giving Spider-Man the stolen hard drive with the organization's key information - including psych evaluations and more. Octavius promises the truth about the hero being compromised is no ruse and leaves Spider-Man to ponder the bombshell about why the Beyond Corporation chose him. Back at Beyond, Reilly asks Maxine Danger why they chose him. They lie to his face and tell him it was because of his "strong will and determination." The comic ends with Reilly smashing a mirror and promising to be a "brand-new man."

The truth is heartbreaking for Reilly, who's already lived in the shadow of Spider-Man his entire existence. He believed the Beyond Corporation chose him because he represented the best of what it meant to be Spider-Man, not because he was easily controlled and compromised. He wanted to stand on his own and now everything has fallen apart. But, ultimately, the truth seemed to set Reilly free. It will be fascinating to see what moves he makes next. The Amazing Spider-Man #85 by Marvel Comics is in comic book stores now.

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