"Catacomb of Torment Honors Classic Horror Comic Cover"

1954's *Crime SuspenStories #22* stands out as one of the most notorious and iconic horror comics ever published. Even if the issue's title doesn't sound familiar, the chilling image of a man wielding an ax and holding his wife's severed head is unforgettable. This comic played a significant role in sparking the anti-comics backlash of the 1950s, which led to the establishment of the Comics Code Authority and ultimately caused the downfall of EC Comics.

Fortunately, EC Comics has made a triumphant return as a new imprint under Oni Press. In a fitting tribute, the latest release from EC Comics 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 celebrating classic EC tributes. Take a look at the cover below:

Art by Jay Stephens. (Image Credit: Oni Press)

For comparison, here is Johnny Craig's original cover for *Crime SuspenStories #22*:

Art by Johnny Craig. (Image Credit: EC Comics)

*Catacomb of Torment* is one of several new titles launching under EC's "Summer of Fear" promotion. This horror anthology series showcases the talents of 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 near-30-year history, they're also an incredibly fun project to work on," said Oni Press President & Publisher Hunter Gorinson. "After surpassing our high expectations with *Epitaphs From the Abyss*, *Cruel Universe*, and *Cruel Kingdom* last year, we're pushing ourselves to be bolder, bigger, and bloodier as EC enters its second year of revival."

"Working on EC for the past year has been incredibly inspiring for everyone involved—from the team at Oni to our partners crafting these captivating worlds at every stage of production," said Oni Press Editor in Chief Sierra Hahn. "It's a real joy to continue bringing these engaging morality tales to life with the industry's best storytellers. This summer's lineup of comics is no exception."

Explore more of *Blood Type* and *Catacomb of Torment* in the slideshow gallery below:

EC Comics' Summer of Fear Preview Gallery

18 Images

The "Summer of Fear" initiative kicks off with the release of *Blood Type #1* in June 2025.

For more classic comic book art, check out our selection of the most iconic superhero comic book covers of all time.