Best Versions Of Marvel’s Eddie Brock

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Summary

  • Eddie Brock‘s evolution from Spider-Man villain to anti-hero is evidenced by his numerous aliases like Anti-Venom and King in Black.
  • Various multi-verse versions of Eddie Brock exist, such as a Wild West Madame Venom and a Looney Tunes-like Pork Grind.
  • Eddie Brock, the mainstream Marvel Universe host of Venom, has a rich history, transitioning from a villain to a god of Symbiotes.

As a comic book enthusiast with over two decades of reading under my belt, I must say that each Eddie Brock from these alternate universes brings a unique twist to the classic character we all know and love. However, if I were to pick one that stands out the most, it would have to be the dinosaur-turned-symbiote host, Eddie Brockiosaurus!

Eddie Brock first appeared in 1986, specifically in issue #18 of “Web of Spider-Man”. At that time, he was a reporter, competing with Peter Parker at the Daily Bugle. However, this character is mainly remembered for his association with Venom and is arguably the most recognized host of the alien symbiote.

In the Marvel Comics world, he has taken on various personas such as Anti-Venom, Toxin, King in Black, and even Carnage. His journey has transformed him from Spider-Man’s nemesis to an anti-hero, a deadly guardian. Just like many characters within Marvel Comics, there are multiple versions of this character existing in different realities outside the primary 616 universe.

It’s important to note that this list excludes the various alternative identities of the primary character, Eddie Brock, and instead focuses on distinct entities.

10. Edna Brock (Earth-31913)

The Wild West Version Of Venom

  • Alias: Madame Venom
  • First Appearance: Extreme Venomverse #3 (June, 2023)

In an alternate Wild West universe known as Earth-31913, we encounter a character who mirrors the essence of Spider-Man but is a female counterpart. This new version rides not on a web-slinging vehicle, but a steed imbued with spider-like abilities.

Edna Brock is the proprietor of a brothel, serving as a watchful guardian and avenger for its female inhabitants. She metes out retribution to those who threaten them, resorting to extreme measures such as abducting them into the desert and inflicting lethal punishment. While she goes by the alias Madame Venom, there’s no evidence suggesting a connection with a venom symbiote; instead, her mask is used to instill terror in potential attackers. Given her limited appearances in comics, it’s difficult to assess her standing among other characters.

9. Pork Grind (Earth-8311)

The World Of Marvel Animals

  • Alias: Pork Grind
  • First Appearance: What The–?! #20 (June, 1992)

In the zany realm of Earth-8311, the Marvel Universe assumes a humorous twist similar to the Looney Tunes universe, with characters being portrayed as animals. Many may recognize Spider-Ham from his appearance in the animated film, “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse”.

In the same universe as our familiar character, there is typically an antagonist counterpart, and in this case, it’s called Pork Grind. Characters from his world act much like classic cartoon characters. Pork Grind favors using a massive mallet, which can flatten Spider-Ham without causing permanent damage. While he shares some similarities with Venom, Pork Grind doesn’t have a known name and his suit doesn’t exhibit symbiote-like behavior, hence limiting his higher ranking.

8. Edward Brock (Earth-2149)

Dubbed The Zombieverse

  • Alias: Venom
  • First Appearance: Marvel Zombies #4 (March, 2006)

In an alternate Marvel universe known as Zombierverse, a horrifying zombie outbreak has occurred, transforming both heroes and villains into grotesque, undead creatures. Regrettably, Eddie Brock was among those who didn’t manage to avoid this terrible fate.

As a devoted fan, I found myself standing shoulder-to-shoulder with heroes when Galactus, the World Devourer, invaded our planet. In the heat of battle, we faced this cosmic menace together. However, it was not us but some Cosmic-Powered Zombies who ultimately toppled The World Devourer. In a desperate attempt to seize control over the fallen foe’s body, he met his match against Spider-Man. With his final breath, Galactus divulged that the Venom symbiote within me, Brock, refused sustenance from the deceased and rejected me in my dying moments.

7. Edward Brock (Earth-23772)

If Venom Never Was

  • Alias: Spider-Man
  • First Appearance: Extreme Venomverse #1(May, 2023)

In the Venom universe, this latest character deserves more attention as there’s significant room for growth and potential greatness. Prior to a pivotal day when Spider-Man declined the Venom symbiote, Eddie Brock’s life followed a familiar pattern.

In this world, the emotional toll of parting with Venom led to his demise, causing deep regret within him. To alleviate his guilt, he bonded with Brock, taking on the role of Spider-Man instead. This incarnation of Lethal Protector now rules over Brock, influencing both his thoughts and actions. Over time, he joined a symbiote team led by Agent Venom from Earth-1051, engaging in battles against Carnage, who sought the destruction of all Venom entities.

6. Edward Brock (Earth-688B

Made Famous By Tom Hardy

  • Alias: Venom
  • First Appearance: Venom (Sony) #1 (September, 2018)

One well-known interpretation of the character, largely due to Tom Hardy’s performance in the three Venom films produced by Sony: Venom, Venom: Carnage Wills Prevail, and Venom: Farewell Dance.

Despite some critics having varied opinions about the films, Tom Hardy’s depiction of Eddie Brock has been widely appreciated, offering a fresh perspective on the character in cinema. It significantly explores the bond between Brock and the Venom symbiote, portraying them as virtually indistinguishable. There’s hope that this interpretation might continue in the anticipated Avengers: Secret Wars, where Venom initially appeared in the comic book storyline, potentially granting fans further insight into this particular character version.

5. Addy Brock (Earth-14512)

Peni Parker’s Adversary

  • Alias: VEN#m
  • First Appearance: Edge of Spider-Geddon #2 (August, 2018)

In many iterations of Spider-Man, Eddie Brock poses problems. Similarly, Peni Parker from Earth-14512 isn’t exempt, as she has a counterpart named Addy Brock. Unlike other versions, Peni is a classmate of Parker and operates the experimental VEN#m suit. This Earth doesn’t feature Spider-powered creatures; instead, they pilot mechs modeled after iconic Spider-Man characters.

In a clash against the colossal creature M.O.R.B.I.U.S., the VEN#m armor seized command, leaving only Brock’s green tendrils behind. Regrettably, Addy Brock is now deceased, but the suit continues to exist independently.

4. Edward Brock (Earth-92131)

The First Animated Depiction Of Venom

  • Alias: Venom
  • First Appearance: Spider-Man S1E01 (November 19, 1994)

In a revolutionary move, “Spider-Man: The Animated Series” served as an introduction to the Spider-Man universe for countless newcomers. A notable aspect that set it apart was the debut of Eddie Brock on screen, prior to his appearance in comic books.

Essentially, his tale mirrors the comic’s, forging a connection with the Venom symbiote following its rejection by Spider-Man. This bond has fostered an animosity towards both Spider-Man and Peter Parker. The design of the Venom suit is impressive; the contrasting red and blue accents give it a distinctive look, and they complement both the animation’s aesthetic and Spider-Man’s colors.

3. Edward Brock Jr. (Earth-1610)

The Ultimate Universe

  • Alias: Venom
  • First Appearance: Ultimate Spider-Man #33 (December, 2002)

In another dimension known as Earth-616, the overarching universe presents a grittier version of our world, with narratives exploring mature topics and often concluding in grim ways. Unfortunately, this harsh reality befalls Eddie Brock in the realm of Earth-1610.

In this adaptation, the character shares a friendship born in childhood with Peter Parker. Their parents collaborated to develop the Venom suit, initially intended as a cancer treatment. But when Brock grew envious upon Parker’s attempt to destroy it, he took on the Venom persona, transforming into a monstrous version. Now, driven by an insatiable hunger for Spider-Man, this character is significantly more aggressive and is depicted less as a supervillain and more as a terrifying monster. This fresh portrayal warrants high praise.

2. Eddie Brock (Earth-616)

From The Mainstream Marvel Universe

  • Alias(es): Venom, Anti-Venom, Toxin, King In Black, Sleeper, Carnage
  • First Appearance: Web of Spider-Man #18 (May, 1986)

Among various iterations, Eddie Brock’s primary portrayal stands out notably for his rich character development over the years in the comic books. Initially appearing as a Spider-Man antagonist, he has since evolved into a character with significant independent identity.

Initially, Eddie Brock assumed the role of Venom following Peter Parker’s rejection of the symbiote. He initially served as a supervillain before transforming into the Lethal Protector of San Francisco. Later on, he took on various identities such as Anti-Venom, Toxin, the King in Black, and numerous other symbiotes. Eventually, Brock ascended to become the god of Symbiotes, the King in Black, after exiling the creators of these alien beings, Knull. Eddie Brock is widely recognized for being the primary host of the Venom symbiote in comic book lore.

1. Eddie Brockiosaurus (Earth-66)

The World Of Dinosaurs

  • Alias: Venomsaurus Rex
  • First Appearance: Edge of Spider-Verse (Vol. 3) #1 (May, 2023)

Choosing anyone other than a Venom-like Tyrannosaurus Rex (Eddie Brockiosaurus) as the top alternative seems challenging, given his unique background. In a prehistoric era, this dinosaur was bonded with a symbiote after it fell into tar pit, much like the human character Eddie Brock.

In many tales, you won’t find Brockiosaurus often, but let me tell you, he’s incredibly impressive. Among the Venom variants, Brockiosaurus was one of those who teamed up with Agent Venom to fight Carnage. Unfortunately, in this particular storyline, his life was cut short due to Carnage’s enhanced abilities granted by Knull. It’s truly unfortunate that fans got a glimpse of something extraordinary only for it to be snatched away prematurely.

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2024-12-12 16:36