To understand the story of #252, it's helpful to know the events that happened right before it.
Cliffhanger in #251: In the previous issue, Spider-Man was investigating a strange, massive citadel that had materialized in Central Park. As he approached, he was engulfed by a blinding light and vanished without a trace.
The Secret Wars: Unbeknownst to the readers of Amazing Spider-Man, the hero had been swept up into a cosmic conflict on a planet called Battleworld, a story told in the pages of the Marvel Super Heroes Secret Wars limited series. This event takes place chronologically between Amazing Spider-Man #251 and #252.
The issue's title, "Homecoming!" , perfectly encapsulates its plot, which is less about a fight and more about a hero's return.
The Dramatic Return: The story opens one week after Spider-Man's disappearance. The Daily Bugle is abuzz, reporting on the mysterious absence of Earth's mightiest heroes. Suddenly, in Central Park, the alien monument reappears. In a brilliant flash of light, Spider-Man emerges, carrying Dr. Curt Connors (who was also taken to Battleworld) and, most shockingly, wearing a brand-new black costume.
Reunions and Daily Life: Peter Parker's first priority is getting Dr. Connors home to his overjoyed wife and son. For himself, the rest of the issue is a series of quiet, personal moments: retrieving his wallet from where he left it, calling his Aunt May to reassure her he's safe, and adjusting to everyday life.
The Symbiote's First Quirks: As Peter Parker walks the streets, he discovers the costume's first strange property: it can change its shape and appearance at his mental command, instantly transforming into civilian clothing. This convenient trick is the first clue that the black suit is much more than just a new set of threads.
A Heroic Patrol: Later that night, while having trouble sleeping, Peter's new costume reacts to his restlessness, slithering across the floor and enveloping him, seemingly eager to continue their patrol. As Spider-Man, he swings through the city, stopping a mugger, and even giving a quarreling couple an impromptu, romantic tour of the New York skyline from his webs.
While *Amazing Spider-Man #252* is a relatively low-stakes story, its importance to the Marvel Universe is monumental.
The First "Published" Appearance (But Not Chronological): This is the first time the black suit appeared in a monthly Spider-Man comic, making it the "first appearance" in the comic book market. However, the story of how Spider-Man got the suit was told months later in Marvel Super Heroes Secret Wars #8. In that story, a desperate Spider-Man discovers a strange machine that produces the black substance, which immediately bonds to him.
The Unsuspecting Host: At this point, Peter Parker—and the readers—knows nothing of the costume's true nature. It's simply seen as a fantastic new outfit. We don't learn that the suit is a living, sentient alien symbiote for several more months. This mysterious origin makes the issue a cornerstone of one of Marvel's most popular villain's backstories.
For a collector, these details are essential for identification and understanding the book's provenance.
Cover Homage: The cover is a famous homage to Amazing Fantasy #15, the first appearance of Spider-Man, cleverly tying this new beginning back to the original origin.