This story is the prologue to J. Michael Straczynskis and John Romita JR:s run. This sets the ground for a few things of their run.

Also, the first appearances of Ezekiel and Morlun!

A new era unfolds as acclaimed writer J. Michael Straczynski takes the reins of Marvel's flagship character! As Peter Parker gets back into the swing of his life, a sudden encounter with an enigmatic stranger will forever change the way he will look at himself?and his alterego, the ever amazing Spider-Man! He's launched two hits with Rising Stars and Midnight Nation, and now Straczynski teams up with penciler John Romita Jr. to form the Spidey dream team supreme! And can you believe we have none other than J. Scott Campbell on covers?

Issue #471 is the first issue which utilzes both the re-numbering process and the original numbering sequence; making it both issue #30 (in the "Volume II" phase) and issue #471 (in the original "Amazing Spider-Man" line)...as evidenced on the cover of the comic.