Since the gameplay reveal trailer at Sony's PlayStation Showcase, fans have been eagerly anticipating the release of Marvel's Spider-Man 2. The game promises to offer an expanded map of New York City and feature both Peter Parker and Miles Morales as playable protagonists who will face off against villains such as the Lizard and Kraven the Hunter. Despite this, the true identity of Venom remains a mystery and fans have been speculating on what role he will play in the game. While the gameplay showcased new mechanics, it did not reveal much about the plot of Marvel's Spider-Man 2, leaving room for speculation on how the story will unfold. One theory suggests that Kraven and Venom may be the same person, a notion that gained traction after the Summer Game Fest showcase revealed Venom's in-game design.
Kraven Could End Up Becoming Venom in Spider-Man 2
Marvel's Spider-Man 2's Game Director Bryan Intihar has promised fans a unique incarnation of Venom that will differ greatly from previous versions. This announcement has sparked a flurry of speculation among fans as to who could possibly become the game's Venom. While Insomniac has yet to disclose the true identity of Venom in the game, fans have developed several theories. One of the most popular theories is that Kraven may become Venom after he comes to New York to hunt down the various heroes and villains living in the city. Following his defeat, the symbiote could attach itself to Peter Parker and then bond with Kraven, turning him into Venom. This would likely create a new plotline where both the symbiote and Kraven become obsessed with hunting down Peter after he manages to break free from the symbiote's control.
Fans have pointed to the pattern on Venom's chest in the Summer Game Fest Showcase artwork as evidence for this theory. While Venom typically has a spider-like design on his chest similar to Spider-Man's, this version of the villain features a pattern that differs from Spider-Man's symbiote suit, particularly in the shoulder area. The pattern looks more similar to the design on Kraven's vest, suggesting that Venom has bonded with Kraven and incorporated part of his design. However, this theory contradicts the statement that this version of Venom is like nothing seen before, as a Kraven Venom has appeared in the comics before. In Spider-Man: Life Story #3, a dying Kraven bonds with the symbiote to survive and becomes a new incarnation of Venom. While it's unclear if this storyline will be used in Marvel's Spider-Man 2, it's worth considering.
Marvel's Spider-Man 2 launches on October 20, exclusively for PS5.