In the annals of horror comics, 1954's Crime SuspenStories #22 stands out as one of the most notorious and iconic issues ever published. You might not remember the title, but you've likely seen the chilling cover image of a man with an ax, clutching his wife's severed head. This comic 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 decline of EC Comics.
However, EC Comics has risen from the ashes as a new imprint under Oni Press. In a fitting tribute, the latest EC Comics release honors the infamous cover art by Johnny Craig from Crime SuspenStories #22. IGN is excited to exclusively reveal the cover art for Catacomb of Torment #1 by artist Jay Stephens, which is part of an ongoing series celebrating classic EC tributes. Take a look at Stephens' homage below:
For comparison, here is the original cover by Johnny Craig for Crime SuspenStories #22:
Catacomb of Torment is one of several new EC books launching as part of the imprint's "Summer of Fear" promotion. This horror anthology series boasts contributions from acclaimed creators like John Arcudi, Marguerite Bennett, Dan McDaid, Matt Kindt, David Lapham, and Tonči Zonjić. Joining Catacomb of Torment are 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 near-30-year history, they're also an insanely fun thing to work on," said Oni Press President & Publisher Hunter Gorinson. "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."
"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," added Oni Press Editor in Chief Sierra Hahn. "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."
For a closer look at both Blood Type and Catacomb of Torment, explore 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, check out our picks for the most iconic superhero comic book covers of all time.
