1954's *Crime SuspenStories #22* stands as one of the most notorious and iconic horror comics ever published. Even if the title doesn't immediately resonate, the chilling image of a man wielding an ax while holding his wife's severed head is unforgettable. This issue significantly contributed to the anti-comics sentiment 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 comeback as a new imprint under Oni Press. It's only fitting that their latest release honors Johnny Craig's infamous cover art. IGN is excited to exclusively unveil artist Jay Stephens' cover for *Catacomb of Torment #1*, which is part of an ongoing series of tributes to classic EC works. Take a look below:
For comparison, here's the original cover by Johnny Craig for *Crime SuspenStories #22*:
*Catacomb of Torment* is one of several new titles launching under the "Summer of Fear" promotion from the EC imprint. This horror anthology features contributions from acclaimed creators such as John Arcudi, Marguerite Bennett, Dan McDaid, Matt Kindt, David Lapham, and Tonči Zonjić. It will be accompanied by *Blood Type* by Corinna Bechko and Andrea Sorrentino, and *Cruel Universe 2* by J. Holtham, Kano, Ann Nocenti, David Rubín, and Greg Smallwood.
"Our EC Comics line is not only the best-selling line of comics in Oni's nearly 30-year history, but it's also an incredibly fun project to work on," said Oni Press President & Publisher Hunter Gorinson. "After surpassing our own high expectations with *Epitaphs From the Abyss*, *Cruel Universe*, and *Cruel Kingdom* last year, we're pushing ourselves to be even bolder, bigger, and bloodier as EC enters its second year of revival."
"Working on EC for the past year has been a tremendous source of inspiration for everyone involved—from the team at Oni to our partners who are crafting these immersive worlds at every stage of production," added Oni Press Editor in Chief Sierra Hahn. "It's a true pleasure to continue delivering these engaging morality tales with the industry's top storytellers. The summer lineup 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
18 Images
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 selection of the most iconic superhero comic book covers of all time.
