1954's *Crime SuspenStories #22* is widely regarded as one of the most infamous and iconic horror comics ever published. You might not recognize the title, but the chilling image of a man wielding an ax and holding his wife's severed head is unforgettable. This particular issue 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 the downfall of EC Comics.
However, EC Comics has risen from the ashes as a new imprint at Oni Press. In a fitting tribute, the latest release from EC Comics honors Johnny Craig's notorious cover art from *Crime SuspenStories #22*. IGN is thrilled to exclusively reveal artist Jay Stephens' cover for *Catacomb of Torment #1*, which is part of an ongoing series celebrating classic EC Comics. Take a look at the cover below:
Art by Jay Stephens. (Image Credit: Oni Press)
For a side-by-side comparison, here is the original cover by Johnny Craig:
Art by Johnny Craig. (Image Credit: EC Comics)
*Catacomb of Torment* is one of several new EC titles launching under the "Summer of Fear" campaign. This horror anthology series boasts contributions from acclaimed creators such as 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.
Oni Press President & Publisher Hunter Gorinson expressed excitement about the project, 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."
Explore more of *Blood Type* and *Catacomb of Torment* in the slideshow gallery below:
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, don't miss our picks for the most iconic superhero comic book covers of all time.
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