Venom #1

Venom #1, released in May 2018, launched the character’s fourth self-titled ongoing series under Marvel Comics. The series was born out of a desire to redefine the mythology of the Venom symbiote, moving away from its traditional origins and introducing the concept of the Klyntar’s ancient connection to the Marvel Universe. This narrative shift was spearheaded by writer Donny Cates and artist Ryan Stegman, who sought to blend cosmic horror elements with traditional superhero tropes.

The creative team focused on establishing a tone that felt grounded yet expansive, significantly influenced by the dark, textured visuals of late 20th-century horror comics. Ryan Stegman’s design work on the symbiote itself leaned into organic, visceral aesthetics, which resonated strongly with readers. The issue was received with critical acclaim, noted for its successful effort to elevate Venom from a classic anti-hero to a central player in the broader cosmic architecture of Marvel’s storytelling.