8 Smartest Decisions In Marvel Villain History

2. Dock Ock Pulls A Freaky Friday - Superior Spider-Man

In another case of a given character's smartest move also being one that made them a hero (sort of), Doctor Octopus' initially evil decision to take control of Peter Parker's body is one of Marvel's most fascinating.

Dan Slott's Spider-Man was the very definition of a mixed bag, but it really came into its own with this particular thread. It's gruesome to begin with, as Ock manages to trap Peter Parker's mind in his own, failing body, but it ends on a note where Peter begs Octavius to honour his legacy. Then, in a barrage of memories, the long-time Spidey villain resolves to use his newfound body for good, as a new, superior Spider-Man.

The most interesting thing about this scheme is that not only does Ock win, in that he successfully swaps his body with Peter, but also that he manages to keep winning too. Ge gets a better spidey-suit, and takes to fighting crime in a markedly more ruthless fashion than Parker ever did when he was the web-slinger.

He might not prove that he genuinely was a 'Superior Spider-Man' by the time Peter regained control, but it was impressive while it lasted all the same.