Venom is a Decepticon with the function of Psychological Warfare.  Transforming between his robot mode and his insect (cicada) mode, he fittingly belongs to the group called Deluxe Insecticons.  In the latter mode he has the ability to emit poisonous chemicals and toxins.  Venom trusts no one and is willing to harm even his fellow Decepticons if he feels they are trying to compromise his role as leader (according to his Tech Spec).

This Transformer (and the other Deluxe Insecticons) was originally part of a toy line of called “Beetras” which were made by Bandai.  They were introduced to the US by Hasbro and the Generation 1 Venom was released in 1985.