Venom is a fictional character appearing in comic books published by Marvel Comics. He first appeared in The Amazing Spider-Man #300 in 1988. Venom is an alien symbiote that bonds with a host, granting them enhanced abilities. The most notable host is Eddie Brock, a journalist who shares a deep hatred for Spider-Man. The symbiote gives its host powers such as superhuman strength, agility, and the ability to produce web-like substances. Venom is often portrayed as an anti-hero, sometimes fighting alongside Spider-Man while at other times acting as a villain. The character has appeared in various media, including films and animated series.