If you’re a fan of horror comics, you’ve likely heard of Crime SuspenStories #22, a title that remains one of the most notorious and iconic issues ever published. Even if the name doesn’t immediately resonate, the chilling image of a man wielding an axe while holding his wife’s severed head is unforgettable. This cover became a symbol of the anti-comics crusade of the 1950s, sparking the creation of the Comics Code Authority and ultimately leading to the downfall of EC Comics.
Thankfully, EC Comics has risen from the ashes as a new imprint under Oni Press. To celebrate this revival, the imprint is honoring its legacy with a series of classic tributes. IGN is proud to exclusively unveil Catacomb of Torment #1, featuring artwork by Jay Stephens. This issue is part of an ongoing anthology celebrating EC’s storied past.
Art by Jay Stephens. (Image Credit: Oni Press)
For comparison, here’s the original cover by Johnny Craig:
Art by Johnny Craig. (Image Credit: EC Comics)
Catacomb of Torment is just one of several exciting new releases as part of EC Comics’ “Summer of Fear” campaign. The horror anthology features contributions from acclaimed creators like John Arcudi, Marguerite Bennett, Dan McDaid, Matt Kindt, David Lapham, and Tonči Zonjić. Fans can also look forward to Blood Type by Corinna Bechko and Andrea Sorrentino, as well as Cruel Universe 2 by J. Holtham, Kano, Ann Nocenti, David Rubín, and Greg Smallwood.
“Our EC Comics line is not only the best-selling in Oni’s history but also an absolute blast to work on,” said Oni Press President Hunter Gorinson. “Building on the success of last year’s Epitaphs From the Abyss, Cruel Universe, and Cruel Kingdom, we’re pushing even harder this summer to deliver bold, bloody, and unforgettable stories.”
Oni Press Editor in Chief Sierra Hahn echoed the sentiment: “The entire team is thrilled to collaborate with such talented storytellers. It’s incredibly rewarding to bring these timeless morality tales back to life.”
Take a closer look at Blood Type and Catacomb of Torment in the exclusive gallery below:
EC Comics' Summer of Fear Preview Gallery
18 Images
“Summer of Fear” kicks off with the release of Blood Type #1 in June 2025. For more classic comic art, explore our list of the most iconic superhero covers of all time.
