Direct Edition. Giant-sized 25th anniversary issue. First full appearance of Venom in "Venom!", script by David Michelinie, art by Todd McFarlane; Spidey's old alien costume has merged with reporter Eddie Brock who thinks his career was ruined by Spider-Man and the symbiote of the two, Venom, takes on the web slinger; At MJ's request, Spidey returns to the blue and red costume as she now finds his black duds way too creepy; This is the last issue in which Spider-Man appears in his black costume; Thing (of the Fantastic Four) cameo.. Stan's Soapbox Special in place of letters page: Full page editorial by Stan on the occasion of Spider-Man's 300th issue. 52 pgs., full color. Cover price $1.50.