Top 10 Carnage Comics You Must Read Before the New Movie

Introduced in 1992, Carnage is a character who emerged just under a decade after his iconic “father”, Venom. However, over time, Carnage transformed into one of Marvel’s beloved antagonists and a figure that was as genuine as he was terrifying. The tale of the symbiote known as Carnage bonding with the psychopathic serial killer Cletus Kasady is arguably one of Marvel’s finest stories, providing insight into why Carnage gained such widespread popularity. Appearing in films, animations, and video games, and with the upcoming sequel to Tom Hardy’s Venom hitting theaters this fall, we thought it would be fitting to provide you with a primer on this character ahead of the movie.

Today’s post will share with you our top 10 favorite Carnage comic book tales, ranked from number 10 to 1. We’ll provide a quick summary of each story and the issues where they can be found, but we strongly recommend reading the comics yourself for a complete immersion into these exciting narratives. Enjoy!

10. “Planet of the Symbiotes”

Writer(s): David Michelinie
Artist(s): Various
Publication Date: June – October 1995

The story opens as Eddie Brock contemplates whether he can master the power of Venom, having heard about a similar struggle from characters like Riot, Phage, Lasher, Agony, and Scream. During a joint operation with Spider-Man against a terrorist organization, Brock finds himself grappling with Venom’s urge to take lives.

After investigating Brock’s predicament, Spider-Man urges him to give up the symbiote, as it seems to be clouding his judgment. With a struggle, Eddie manages to break free from Venom, and in retaliation for being rejected, Venom mentally commands a colossal spaceship carrying numerous symbiotes to make its way to Earth.

Symbionts start blending with everyday individuals, causing them to perform heinous acts. Plagued by guilt, Eddie Brock joins forces once more with Spider-Man and Ben Reilly to delve into this mystery. They uncover that symbionts are drawing essential elements from Earth to build an unknown artifact. The trio confronts the symbionts, but they end up being captured. In a desperate move, Ben Reilly consents to become one with the symbiont.

On a planet where symbiotes have already taken over, Ben Reilly (who now hosts one of these symbiotes) informs them that the symbiote’s objective is to alter its species’ traditional history and start breeding with other races in order to experience emotions. Venom suggests approaching the host more closely, but not controlling him completely, even though they won’t abandon their ambition to conquer Earth eventually.

1. They return to Earth, freeing Cletus Kasaday who is then attacked by the symbiote, making him once more the host for Carnage. The symbiote’s assault empowers Carnage, and he discovers that his newfound strength comes from absorbing one of the symbiotes.

2. Upon their return to Earth, they set free Cletus Kasaday who gets attacked by a symbiote, transforming him into Carnage’s carrier once more. The symbiote assault on Cletus enhances Carnage, revealing that this enhancement was due to the absorption of one of the symbiotes.

3. Back on Earth, they liberate Cletus Kasaday who gets attacked by a symbiote, re-establishing him as Carnage’s host. The assault from the symbiote strengthens Carnage, and he finds out that this increase in power stemmed from absorbing one of the symbiotes.

4. Upon their arrival on Earth, they release Cletus Kasaday who is then attacked by a symbiote, turning him back into Carnage’s bearer. The symbiote’s attack boosts Carnage’s power, and he uncovers that this enhancement was due to the consumption of one of the symbiotes.

5. They come back to Earth, setting Cletus Kasaday free who is then attacked by a symbiote, causing him to become Carnage’s host again. The symbiote’s attack increases Carnage’s might, and he learns that this boost in power was the result of absorbing one of the symbiotes.

As Carnage swallows countless symbiotes and expands in size, Spider-Man looks for a method to eliminate him. In this moment, Venom realizes that if he doesn’t stop Carnage, he will perish himself. Leveraging his telepathic skills, which allowed him to summon the ship earlier, he decides to take action and wipe out his own symbiote army alone. Using his influence, he induces pain and despair in the symbiotes, causing them to take their own lives.

9. “The One that Got Away”

Writer(s): Gerry Conway
Artist(s): Mike Perkins
Publication Date: 2016

As a movie enthusiast, I find myself nestled in a local eatery, voicing my frustrations to the kind waitress about how people misunderstand me due to my accent. However, when I catch sight of myself on the television screen, I demand them to crank up the volume, feeling a surge of annoyance as they call me “Cleavon,” a name that doesn’t resonate with me. To my astonishment, one of the survivors from St. Este’s Home for Boys, Manuela Calderon, not only managed to endure his rampage but has emerged as a distinguished figure – a two-time Afghan war veteran and a renowned private security expert.

Enraged, Cletus morphs into Carnage, brutally slays the waitress, exposing his earlier massacre of everyone else in the restaurant. At Gray Ridge Mine, Col. John Jameson and FBI Agent Claire Dixon chat about a TV show, unveiling it as a ruse to ensnare Carnage with handheld sonic cannons. When encountering Manuela, Jameson queries her motive for visiting Afghanistan thrice, to which she retaliates by questioning his decision to rejoin the military and undertake rescue operations in Iraq.

Barry Gleason, head of Gray Ridge Investments, admits that Manuela was his strategy to lure Carnage, similar to how a trap using explosives has been used and activated. Jameson inquires about what will occur if the plan falls apart, and Agent Dixon presents him with Eddie Brock. Jameson is astonished to learn that the FBI enlisted the help of Venom, but Dixon clarifies that he now hosts the Toxin symbiote.

Jameson queries about what a Toxin is. Eddie clarifies that the Venom symbiote is currently bonded with someone else who works for the government, while Toxin is a relative of Carnage, which is a descendant of the original Venom symbiote. Dixon mentions that the FBI used sonic cannons to apprehend Eddie after he dismantled a drug cartel in Philadelphia. Eddie acknowledges that he’s been aware of the FBI following him for about a week now, and Agent Dixon responds by suggesting he could keep helping them.

In a different phrasing: Manuela queries about something, and Agent Dixon explains that they employed Symbiotic Suppressor tech on Toxin, meaning Eddie must adhere to rules for life-long parole. Eddie mentions not everyone is rooting for the mission’s success, and as he departs, Jameson understands relying on him could make things more problematic than anticipated.

Agent Dixon expresses that it doesn’t need to escalate further, and Manuela acknowledges that it’s reassuring they are considering the long term. At sunset, Manuela along with a group of agents move towards the mine location, while Jameson finds the setup brings back memories of the goat scene in Jurassic Park. Curious, Jameson queries why he was called upon, to which Agent Dixon responds that the higher-ups have their motives.

Dixon phones Manuela, who tells him that the border sensors aren’t detecting any action. Eddie, close by, smirks because he knows they wouldn’t be active either. Meanwhile, outside, Carnage covertly captures some guards and leaves a single survivor from each team to avoid raising alarm. When an agent questions why a girl is in a boys’ school, Manuela explains that her roommate is the mother figure. Agent Dixon spots Carnage’s tentacles on one of the West Grid surveillance cameras, and Eddie comments that it’s becoming quite amusing.

In this scenario, Manuela is suddenly attacked by Carnage, resulting in the death of her escort. Manuela then calls out for her teammates to proceed cautiously, keeping clear of Carnage’s tendrils. Jameson observes that Carnage is too swift for the cannons to track, and Eddie instructs Agent Dixon to allow him entrance, but he must stay silent. Agent Dixon orders Manuela to guide Carnage into the designated target zone, and before the area is set, Manuela uses a whistle to strike Carnage, followed by a pause to mark the target location.

In pursuit, Carnage finds that these individuals won’t slip away this time; instead, they will meet their demise due to explosive sound emitters designed to repel the symbiote from Cletus. A resonating echo dislodges an ancient tunnel wall, triggering a colossal cave-in right beneath Cletus and several agents. When Agent Dixon confronts Barry Gleason in anger for thinking the location was safe, Eddie suggests it’s now time to implement Plan B.

At first light, Colonel Jameson observes that, had the operatives not been ensnared, they could’ve left Carnage confined within the mine. Eddie queries Jameson about his fear, to which he replies that Carnage had slain nine individuals in under half a minute, making their mission to save them merciless. The moment for another assault on Carnage seems imminent.

8. Carnage: Black, White & Blood

Writer(s): Various
Artist(s): Various
Publication Date: 2021

Carnage: Black, White & Blood” is a four-part anthology series within Marvel’s universe, delving into the larger tale of Carnage. These stories can either be self-contained or share some common elements. The narrative journeys through Carnage’s past, present, and hints at future events, often involving characters like Spider-Man, Venom, and others. Due to the depth and breadth of these stories, we recommend checking out the collected edition for a comprehensive reading experience.

7. “What Dwells Beneath”

Writer(s): Gerry Conway
Artist(s): Mike Perkins
Publication Date: 2016 – 2017

Upon reaching Chthonic Island, Carnage is swiftly apprehended by the minions of Chthon – strange amphibious beings that were crafted by the malevolent deity Chthon to serve his sinister goals on Earth. After approximately forty-eight hours, the Anti-Symbiote Task Force makes their appearance, utilizing Jubulile van Scotter’s psychic bond with Carnage as a means of tracking him through the dense jungle. Unfortunately, they are ambushed by a massive group of these minions.

When the task force discovers that Carnage is being grilled over a fire, they hesitantly attempt to rescue him because his demise might lead to Jubulile’s death. However, they are caught off guard by Raze, who utilizes her symbiote to liberate Carnage and escape with him into the dense foliage of the jungle. Meanwhile, during a battle against the broodlings, John Jameson succumbs to the Godstone’s influence and transforms into a werewolf, fleeing deep into the jungle.

In my perspective, as the task force restructures, I can’t help but remember Jubulilie’s chilling tales about Cletus, her time-served cellmate on Ryker’s Island. He leaves me with a sense of unease, and I can’t help but feel apprehensive towards him. Eddie Brock, on the other hand, acknowledges his past misdeeds but is determined to change for the better.

Meanwhile, Carnage and Raze find themselves in a haunting jungle temple. For Carnage, this place seems to stir memories of Jubulilie’s family and Claire Dixon, a woman who’s currently grappling with an existential crisis as she is compelled to submit to Carnage’s will against her own beliefs.

As Carnage and Raze plunge into the Temple’s mysteriously warped lower levels, Victoria reveals to the Task Force that she is Chthon’s daughter and has spent her extraordinary lifespan thwarting his plans. The team locates Man-Wolf and successfully transforms him back to his human state before venturing deeper into the chilling temple.

Deep within the temple, Carnage and Raze encounter O’Brien – the high priest of Chthon and the lone male bird capable of breeding. He informs Carnage that he is fated to be sacrificed, a ritual meant to revive Chthon. However, Carnage resists this fate, assaults the gathered broodlings, and instead employs their blood for the sacrificial rite. As the task force penetrates the temple, Eddie Brock confesses that he had been unfairly blaming the Venom symbiote for the misdeeds they committed as Venom, causing him to question his faith in a higher power.

As Carnage carries out the ritual to bring forth Chthon within the temple, the structure starts crumbling when a gateway to K’lay, Chthon’s imprisonment realm, mysteriously opens. At this critical juncture, the task force appears just as Chthon is being evoked. With no other choice, Montesi proposes that Eddie let Jubulilie bond with the Toxin symbiote to empower them, but Eddie refuses until Raze (acting on Carnage’s instructions) slays Montesi’s assistant, Yuvraj Singh.

In the heat of the battle, I, Jubulilie, seize control over the lethal symbiote, merging it within my own being, followed swiftly by the absorption of Raze’s symbiote from Claire. As Carnage demands his due with a plea for apotheosis, Chthon, in a haughty display, devours the remnants of his broodlings and brushes him aside with a dismissive flick. However, when Chthon attempts to rally his ancient army of Great Elderly and Evil Elder Gods, I strike back, launching an attack that ultimately banishes Chthon, with the assistance of Montesi and the Darkhold, back to K’lay.

When Jubulilie’s symbiote seems to die, Carnage becomes enraged and attempts to slaughter the task force in retaliation. With his control released, Claire bravely gives her life to shield them, passing away in Eddie’s embrace. Meanwhile, Montesi employs the Darkhold to strip Kasady of the Carnage symbiote, and five days later, Kasady is extradited to the U.S. for imprisonment. As they bid farewell, the task force members part ways and go their separate paths.

6. Carnage, U.S.A.

Writer(s): Zeb Wells
Artist(s): Clayton Crain
Publication Date: 2012

In Doverton, Colorado:

– A young child accidentally squirts water at his sister using a toy water gun, in full view of their mother.
– A gentleman named Robbie gets taken into custody.
– An older pair enjoy time on their porch, discussing plans to repaint their house.
– Meanwhile, in a slaughterhouse, an employee is tasked with checking pigs but discovers they’ve been partially consumed.

A different individual, seemingly consuming them, later declares he’ll purchase them. When the worker inquiries about the items, the man who turns out to be Cletus Kasady exclaims “EVERYTHING!” and reveals Carnage, his symbiote. Four days prior to the main narrative, Carnage (Cletus Kasady), Spider-Man, and primarily, Spider-Man are wanted for undisclosed reasons, despite Kasady’s past transgressions.

In a turn of events, a police officer (who also happens to be the child’s father, mentioned previously) crashes his car through a fence, dashes into the house, and urgently instructs his wife to step away from the sink. The reason for this panic? The Carnage symbiote, which he suspects is in their bathroom, has taken hold of their son as a hostage. As the symbiote fuses with the child, it attacks the father.

Sheriff Bryan O’Neil, of the city, awkwardly exits town and mutters names for Cletus Kasady – an odd move considering he was present himself. The authorities later deliberate on the incident when they rescued O’Neil. They subsequently reach out to the Avengers, who were engaged in a playful display with Wolverine attempting the arrow-and-apple trick. Hawkeye was firing the arrow, while Spider-Man managed the apple (it goes without saying that Wolverine refused to participate).

Captain America convenes a meeting to tackle the Carnage problem. Spiderman reaches out to The Thing (as he possesses an item potentially useful for this), which leaves Hawkeye in displeasure (he dislikes Ben’s brash phone manner, and soon enough, even Spiderman shares his frustration). Meanwhile, in Doverton, the elderly residents find themselves conversing with Kasady, who laments about being the only one on the swing.

1) He hastily departs and unknowingly consumes polluted water as eager civilians surround him. Simultaneously, a Quinjet carries the aforementioned heroes. This creature wielding a massive Sonic Disruptor fires at Carnage, retorting, “It’s time for some serious smashing!” In town, they encounter a man who repeatedly expresses joy with “Massive smiles.”

This version maintains the original meaning while using more natural and easy-to-read language.

In this scenario, Cap is walking towards someone as several individuals repeat the same message. All of a sudden, Kasady joins them, carrying a baby. Hawkeye readies a shot, inadvertently stirring the symbiote. The symbiote assaults the heroes, but when Spidey offers guidance on how to evade it, Kasady seizes him and declares that their conflict is personal. As the remaining four heroes transform into Carnage, Spider-Man’s emergency call gets disconnected, setting off a PROJECT: LIQUID emergency plan – releasing all other symbiotes. The narrative then unfolds with Carnage taking control of most Avengers, until eventually Venom and Spider-Man are able to defeat him.

5. “Carnage”

Writer(s): David Michelinie
Artist(s): Mark Bagley
Publication Date: April – June 1992

As a passionate movie buff, I find myself drawn into the chilling narrative of Cletus Kasaday, now transformed into the symbiote-empowered Carnage. This menacing figure has set his sights on Peter’s academic haven, hunting for his next victim. It just so happens that Chip, a fellow student of Peter Parker, becomes the unfortunate target.

In a desperate attempt to escape, Chip flees from the ominous presence of Carnage. However, the relentless Carnage seizes a sink and hurls it at Chip, trapping him within the room. With a chilling determination, Carnage approaches Chip, gripping him around the neck, his fingers poised to end the life of this innocent soul.

A phone call comes at May Parker’s home, answered by Peter. He learns from this call that one of his classmates, Chip, has tragically been killed. Subsequently, Spider-Man sneaks into the lab where Chip was slain, concealing himself in the air ducts to gather intel. Later on, Peter confides in Mary about Chip’s death and shares his suspicion that Venom might be behind it.

He narrates his account of acquiring the Venom Symbiote during the “Secret Wars” storyline on Battleworld. Upon discovering that the creature sought to join him permanently, he subsequently employed the powerful church bells to apparently annihilate it. However, against all odds, the symbiote survived and eventually bonded with someone who shared his intense dislike for Spider-Man – Eddie Brock.

In my perspective as a movie critic, I’d rephrase it like this: As I delve into the world of Marvel cinematics, I find myself identifying with Brock, who transforms into the formidable adversary, Venom, against Spider-Man. To gain insight into Brock’s past actions leading up to their last encounter, Peter Parker dives into the archives of the Daily Bugle’s computer system. His investigation uncovers a chilling revelation: Eddie Brock shared a cell on Ryker’s Island with Cletus Kasaday, a ruthless mass murderer serving 11 life sentences. To add to the intrigue, it appears that this dangerous inmate has recently broken free from his cell and brutally killed one of the prison guards during the escape.

Peter ponders if this is Cletus’ initial act of murder and what kind of twisted individual he’s now confronting. That night, Spider-Man visits the remnants of St. Estes’ Home and finds Cletus conversing with himself. The disturbed character is seen bare and in front of a fire, having a conversation with a teddy bear named Binky. As the web-slinger attempts to approach, he is noticed by Kasaday.

Upon spotting the robot on the wall, Cletus undergoes a startling metamorphosis into Carnage, violently ripping apart the teddy bear with his bare hands. With Spider-Man in his sights, Carnage extends his hand to engage in combat and recalls their past encounters with Venom. The struggle between Spider-Man and the bloodthirsty symbiote commences; eventually, Eddie Brock enters the fray, forcing them both to team up to put an end to Carnage’s destructive rampage.

4. Venom vs. Carnage

Writer(s): Peter Milligan
Artist(s): Clayton Crain
Publication Date: 2004

After parting ways, Carnage made it clear he had no interest in the upcoming, yet undisclosed incident, asserting his desire to stay detached from it. On the other hand, Venom was adamant that this event would transpire regardless of Cletus’ preferences or feelings towards it.

Following Venom’s toss into the Hudson River, Carnage burrowed beneath the earth, intending to use its depth as a means of asphyxiating their newborn offspring immediately after birth. Upon reaching the location, Officer Patrick Mulligan and his partner found Carnage in the process of departing.

In a different part of the city, Felicia Hardy found herself at an art show in a gallery. Suddenly, the lights went off. Upon his return, the gallery owner was taken aback to discover that one of the paintings had vanished.

Officer Mulligan arrived home and greeted his heavily pregnant wife with a kiss on her belly. As they discussed the horrific events of the day, Venom and Carnage suddenly appeared. A fierce battle ensued, during which Gina was pushed down the stairs, and Carnage successfully forced Patrick to retreat, eager to rip into him to extract what he believed was an alien “child”.

1. In a turn of events, the Black Cat brings back the pilfered artwork to its Maker after spotting Carnage shoving Officer Mulligan out of a structure. With hesitation, she steps in and rescues his life. Carnage pursues them next, intending to eliminate them both, but Venom arrives on the scene just as they were about to meet their end. During the ensuing battle, Black Cat and Mulligan manage to slip away. The combatants clash, and it seems that Carnage has met his demise when he’s struck by a subway train.

2. After discovering that Carnage had taken Officer Mulligan hostage and was about to hurl him from a building, the Black Cat restores a stolen painting to its rightful owner. She bravely steps in to save Mulligan’s life, even though she did not want to get involved. As they fled, Carnage followed them with murderous intent, but Venom intervened during the chase. While Venom and Carnage were engaged in a vicious fight, Black Cat and Mulligan managed to escape unharmed. The battle between the two monstrous figures continued until Carnage was run over by a subway train, leaving the impression that he had been eliminated.

3. In an unexpected twist, as the Black Cat recovered a purloined painting from its Creator, she noticed Carnage in the act of throwing Officer Mulligan off a building. With great reluctance, she intervened to save Mulligan’s life. As they escaped, Carnage pursued them, determined to eliminate them both. Venom entered the fray just as it seemed their time had run out. During the struggle, Black Cat and Mulligan managed to slip away safely. The fight between the two adversaries continued until Carnage was struck by a subway train, leading many to believe that he perished.

4. In an unexpected turn of events, the Black Cat returned the stolen artwork to its Maker after she saw Carnage hurling Officer Mulligan from a building. Reluctantly stepping in to save his life, she found herself embroiled in a dangerous situation. As they fled, Carnage pursued them with murderous intent, but Venom entered the fight and distracted him long enough for Black Cat and Mulligan to escape unharmed. The battle between the two raged on until Carnage was run over by a subway train, leaving many to speculate that he had been vanquished.

5. In an unexpected turn of events, the Black Cat managed to return the stolen painting to its Creator after spotting Carnage in the act of throwing Officer Mulligan from a building. With hesitation, she intervened to save his life, and as they fled, Carnage pursued them with murderous intent. Venom entered the fray just as it seemed their time had run out, and during the ensuing battle, Black Cat and Mulligan managed to slip away unharmed. The fight between the two adversaries continued until Carnage was struck by a subway train, leaving many to wonder if he had truly been defeated.

6. In an unexpected turn of events, the Black Cat returned the stolen painting to its Maker after witnessing Carnage about to toss Officer Mulligan from a building. She reluctantly stepped in to save his life and, as they fled, Carnage pursued them with murderous intent. Venom entered the fray just as it seemed their time had run out, and during the ensuing battle, Black Cat and Mulligan managed to escape unharmed. The fight between the two adversaries continued until Carnage was run over by a subway train, leaving many to assume that he had been vanquished.

In a simpler, more natural way of expression: Mulligan visits the hospital to see his new baby boy Edward. Venom stands guard outside the hospital, safeguarding the newly born symbiote. Carnage managed to survive and burrows under the hospital, planning to attack his offspring once more when he has the chance. Meanwhile, Spider-Man is keeping watch over the area to ensure everyone’s safety.

In a short while, Pat resumes work, discovering his reactions and power at an all-time high. His colleague is bound to remark on this improvement as they move onto their next assignment. There, they scrutinize the surveillance footage of the woman who pilfered the painting the previous night, and it’s instantly familiar to Pat. He then identifies the artist in the artwork and devises a means to summon Black Cat within the painting.

Just as he prepared to read her rights, she suddenly realized that this man was the one she had helped a few nights earlier. It turned out that his true intention was to learn about her situation. The story then takes an exciting turn with the appearance of Toxin, the offspring of Carnage. This unexpected event led Venom and Carnage to join forces in order to destroy their shared “child” and prevent him from causing further destruction.

3. Amazing Spider-Man: Red Goblin

Writer(s): Dan Slott
Artist(s): Stuart Immonen
Publication Date: 2018

Norman Osborn enlisted two thugs to snatch the Carnage symbiote. These hired guns successfully took the symbiote, and Osborn soon formed an alliance with it, transforming into the new Carnage. Initially, the symbiote showed its power, but Osborn introduced it to the thrills of torment and slaughter. In turn, Osborn opted to blend the goblin serum with the symbiote, aiming to create a goblin-symbiote composite.

Following Norman Osborn’s consumption of the Goblin Serum, he abducted J. Jonah Jameson and embarked on a mission to track down Spider-Man. Osborn pilfered some tritium and fashioned it into a bomb, concealed within a satchel, then attacked the Daily Bugle building as the Green Goblin. He demanded that Peter Parker bring Spider-Man to the scene. Upon Spider-Man’s arrival, an altercation between the two villains ensued, prompting the Bugle staff to evacuate.

Observing from afar after being shoved aside, Osborn saw as Spider-Man enclosed the bomb using a band and was engulfed by the blast that ensued; pierced through a beam and fragments of broken glass, Osborn feigned his death, exposing that he recognized Spider-Man beneath the mask. It turned out that Osborn had fused with the Carnage symbiote, and as a result, transformed into a grotesque form he dubbed the Red Goblin, which sent Spider-Man scrambling in terror.

Osborn left Peter with a tough choice: abandon his life as Spider-Man and live in safety, or witness the Red Goblin torturously eliminate each of his cherished ones. Faced with this dilemma, Spider-Man consented, but little did the Red Goblin know that Peter planned to carry on fighting as Peter Parker.

Contrary to Peter’s concerns about Norman potentially harming his loved ones, it was actually his own family that the Red Goblin aimed for next. The Red Goblin, however, proved too powerful for Human Torch, Clash, Silk, and Spider-Man when they tried to confront him. The Carnage Symbiote, fortified by the Goblin Formula, made the Red Goblin impervious to their combined assault, allowing him to swiftly overpower and defeat all four heroes in a short span of time.

Or:

Peter worried that Norman might endanger his friends and family, but it was actually the Red Goblin’s own family who became his next target. The Red Goblin was no match for Human Torch, Clash, Silk, and Spider-Man when they came to confront him, thanks to the Carnage Symbiote’s enhanced power due to the Goblin Formula. Despite their combined attack, the Red Goblin easily repelled them all and defeated each of the heroes in quick succession.

In a surprising turn of events, Anti-Venom arrived on the scene, and his symbiotic abilities left Osborn taken aback. However, the situation took a dramatic twist as Osborn compelled the Anti-Venom Agent to confront a tough dilemma: either defeat him or save their gravely injured comrades. In a selfless move, the Anti-Venom agent opted to rescue his friends, but this act of heroism came at a cost – he was felled by the Red Goblin while saving the final member of his team.

After finding his family amidst the chaos, who were attempting to flee, the Crimson Goblin disclosed his real objective: his grandson Normie Osborn, whom he subsequently contaminated with a fragment of the Carnage symbiote. Following this, the Crimson Goblin headed towards Alchemax with the intention of annihilating the synthetic Anti-Venom they had there. In an attempt to draw Spider-Man into action, he sent Normie, now known as Goblin Childe, to assault Aunt May. Subsequently, the Crimson Goblin made his way to Stark Tower with the intention of killing Mary Jane Watson.

Meanwhile, the Red Goblin was ambushed by Venom, dispatched by Jameson for their protection. Spider-Man joined in to assist, but the Red Goblin successfully fended off his attacks and fled to aid Normie. Upon arrival, he discovered Normie engaged in combat with Superior Octopus, who swore to defend May at any cost. Despite the intervention of a Spider-Slayer controlled by Jameson, the Red Goblin inflicted grave harm on Octavius and disabled the Spider-Slayer before whisking Normie away.

After Norman and his grandson attempted to make Liz and Harry hand over Alchemax to Normie, the pair responded with a swarm of Humanitrons. In the ensuing conflict, Harry, using an old Goblin Glider and pumpkin bombs, attacked his father. The Red Goblin was struck by Harry’s Goblin Glider, leaving him injured. Enraged, he pursued Spider-Man through the city.

Nevertheless, Agent Anti-Venom foiled his scheme by coming up with a strategy and rendering the needles powerless, thus protecting Osborn’s target. Infuriated that his triumph was snatched away, the Red Goblin mercilessly assaulted and shocked Flash Thompson; despite Spider-Man, now enraged and venomous, striking Osborn and passing through a structure, Flash ultimately succumbed to his wounds and perished.

Afterward, Norman collided into Times Square, and he concluded that the most effective method to reach Spider-Man was by indiscriminately killing people and launching Carnage bombs everywhere. With Spider-Man preoccupied by the chaos and his efforts to save bystanders, the Red Goblin seized him and began choking him. Nevertheless, Spider-Man declared that all the credit for his demise would solely be attributed to the symbiote of Carnage, aiming at Norman’s oversized pride.

Actually, after becoming enraged, the Red Goblin discarded the symbiote, claiming that he was capable of defeating Spider-Man on his own. Having previously turned down the Venom symbiote, Spider-Man engaged in a battle with the Green Goblin and emerged victorious. However, when Norman Osborn desperately attempted to rejoin forces with Carnage’s symbiote, Spider-Man set him ablaze, leaving Norman’s mind shattered, thereby completing Cletus Kasady’s personality.

Reflecting on our encounter within the confines of Ravencroft Asylum, it was there, with a mind altered by my ordeal, that I shared with Spider-Man – or so I believed him to be – my conviction that beneath his mask lay none other than Norman Osborn. And in that very moment, I proclaimed myself as Cletus Kasady, a name perhaps unfamiliar to you, but one that would soon echo through the annals of our shared universe.

2. Absolute Carnage

Writer(s): Donny Cates
Artist(s): Ryan Stegman
Publication Date: August – November 2019

Revived by a cult worshipping Knüll and associated with fragments of the divine entity called Ur-Grendel symbiote, Cletus Kasady embarks on a pursuit of individuals who have previously bonded with a symbiote, aiming to seize their encoded data – residual traces stored within their bodies from the symbiotes.

Over a span of multiple months, “Dark Carnage” seized control of an underground city that was previously guarded by Venom, constructing a tower of the living abyss which boosted his newly acquired powers. Additionally, he took possession of the Doverton city archives, along with documents from Alejandra Jones, Leonard Elkhart, and numerous members of Weapon V staff. Furthermore, he claimed the bodies of countless former hosts who had previously been possessed, including those desecrated corpses that the cult had placed in a mass grave.

In the midst of the War of the Realms, Dark Carnage excavates a cave beneath Manhattan and constructs another tower. Ensnared by the evil of Knüll, the symbiotes belonging to Riot, Agony, Phage, and Lasher brutally murder a family of four before fleeing towards New York City.

The theft of Thaddeus Ross’s corpse piques the interest of the Hulk, who suspects something suspicious might be happening and starts an investigation. He eventually uncovers a mass grave and informs the authorities about it. Meanwhile, during a battle with Dark Carnage, Eddie confessed that Dylan was his son, and upon finding him injured, Eddie carried the boy, who thought Eddie had abandoned him.

Dylan concealed his powers from Eddie because he had used them when Norman’s symbiote tried to hurt him and Normie. After merging with the Venom symbiote, the carnage-altered Grendel symbiote continued to communicate with Eddie, causing him great distress. Desiring to sort out his present predicament, he went back to Isla de Huesos, but upon landing, Carnage absorbed him and left him only with the Venom symbiote.

(Note: “assimilated” was replaced with “absorbed” for clarity and easier reading.)

1) Years ago, Eddie found an armory on the island that he later had to defend by himself. By utilizing a communication tower for power, he successfully divided two symbiotes. Meanwhile, Dylan has been preserving a fragment of Norman’s symbiote for research and comprehension of its abilities. He intends to locate his father and aid him by transforming Venom into a T-Rex shape using it.

After Eddie and Dylan managed to subdue Carnage’s influence, Eddie found himself detached from it and re-linked with Venom instead. Regrettably, Carnage somehow survived and adapted into a shark form to elude the island. Later on, Eddie would make his way back to the mainland and inform the Avengers about Knüll’s impending arrival.

1. Maximum Carnage

Contributors: Tom DeFalco, J.M. DeMatteis, Terry Kavanagh, David Michelinie
Illustrators: Various
Release Period: May to August 1993

In the initial appearance of Carnage (issues #361 to 363 of The Amazing Spider-Man), an alien symbiote that bestowed Eddie Brock with Venom’s powers produced a child. This symbiote transformed into a murderous entity when it bonded with Cletus Kasady, leading the duo on a violent spree through New York City.

1. Despite being defeated, Carnage’s symbiotic entity managed to reemerge. Crazed Kasady was confined in Ravencroft Asylum, but during his brief stint, it was discovered that the alien had altered his blood to spawn a duplicate of the symbiote. The fugitive then broke out, liberating other superpowered individuals and amassing a group of assassins as his makeshift family.

2. Although Carnage suffered defeat, his symbiote resurfaced. The madman Kasady was locked up at Ravencroft Asylum, but he demonstrated that the alien had transformed his blood to create a new symbiote replica during his brief stay. Escaping, he released other superhumans and established a gang of assassins as his so-called family.

3. Carnage was overthrown, but his symbiotic entity lived on. The psychopathic Kasady ended up in Ravencroft Asylum, where it was found that the alien had modified his blood to produce another symbiote. With a daring escape, he unleashed other superhumans and assembled a team of assassins as his self-proclaimed family.

4. Carnage succumbed, but his symbiotic being persisted. The lunatic Kasady was admitted to Ravencroft Asylum, where it became clear that the alien had manipulated his blood to generate a fresh symbiote. Breaking free, he unshackled other superpowered beings and forged an alliance of assassins as his self-styled family.

5. Defeated, Carnage’s symbiotic essence remained alive. The insane Kasady was housed at Ravencroft Asylum, but it was shown that the alien had changed his blood to produce another symbiote. Escaping, he set loose other superhumans and formed a band of assassins as his chosen family.

Ultimately, they fixed their sights on New York City. After a brutal attack, Carnage gathered Shriek, Doppelganger, DemoDuende, and Carrion to his side, using their twisted ideals of family, causing terror in New York with their violent acts. Many innocent lives were lost as a result.

Spider-Man and Venom found themselves teaming up against a common enemy, with backup from heroes such as Captain America, Black Cat, Nightwatch, Cloak and Dagger, Iron Fist, Morbius, and Firestar. Yet, the alliance was fraught with disagreements because Venom aimed to prevent Carnage while Spider-Man resisted any actions that could lead to more casualties.

Spider-Man and Venom teamed up with other heroes to fight a foe, but they often clashed due to Venom wanting to stop Carnage and Spider-Man being against causing further harm.

In the midst of internal conflicts within the villainous crew and the stellar actions of our heroes, it was ultimately Carnage who faced defeat. To throw us off his trail, he ingeniously staged a death scene by concealing one of his victims beneath his symbiote attire – a ruse that fooled every hero except for Spider-Man and Venom.

They pursued his path until they had him pinned down in a graveyard. Exhausted from the fight, Spiderman was rescued by Black Widow. Utilizing his disguise, Venom seized Carnage and hurled him into an electric power source, burning him to ashes before vanishing.

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2025-06-04 05:50