1954's Crime SuspenStories #22 is often hailed as one of the most notorious and iconic horror comics ever published. Even if the title doesn't sound familiar, you're likely to recognize the chilling cover image of a man wielding an ax and holding his wife's severed head. This issue played a significant role in sparking the anti-comics backlash of the 1950s, leading to the establishment of the Comics Code Authority and the eventual downfall of EC Comics.
Fortunately, EC Comics has made a triumphant return as a new imprint under Oni Press. It's fitting that their latest release honors Johnny Craig's infamous cover art. IGN is excited to exclusively unveil the cover of Catacomb of Torment #1, illustrated by artist Jay Stephens, as part of an ongoing series of tributes to EC's classics. Take a look below:
For a side-by-side comparison, here's the original cover of Crime SuspenStories #22 by Johnny Craig:
Catacomb of Torment is part of a series of new EC books launching during the "Summer of Fear" promotion. This horror anthology features contributions from acclaimed creators such as John Arcudi, Marguerite Bennett, Dan McDaid, Matt Kindt, David Lapham, and Tonči Zonjić. It joins other new releases like Corinna Bechko and Andrea Sorrentino's Blood Type and J. Holtham, Kano, Ann Nocenti, David Rubín, and Greg Smallwood's Cruel Universe 2.
Oni Press President & Publisher Hunter Gorinson shared his enthusiasm, stating, "Our EC Comics line is not only the best-selling line of comics in Oni's near-30-year history, they're also an insanely fun thing to work on. So, after exceeding our own already-high expectations with Epitaphs From the Abyss, Cruel Universe, and Cruel Kingdom last year, we're challenging ourselves to get bolder and bigger – and bloodier! – on all fronts as EC enters the second year of its milestone resurrection."
Oni Press Editor in Chief Sierra Hahn added, "Working on EC for the last year has been incredibly inspiring for everyone working on the series – from the team at Oni to our partners building these bite-sized worlds at each level of production. It's a real joy to continue bringing these entertaining morality tales to life with the best storytellers in the business. This summer's slate of comics is no exception."
Get a closer look at both Blood Type and Catacomb of Torment in the slideshow gallery below:
EC Comics' Summer of Fear Preview Gallery
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The "Summer of Fear" campaign kicks off with the release of Blood Type #1 in June 2025.
For more classic comic book art, explore our selections of the most iconic superhero comic book covers of all time.
