"Catacomb of Torment Honors Iconic Horror Comic Cover"

1954's *Crime SuspenStories #22* stands as one of the most notorious and iconic horror comics in history. Even if you don't recall the issue by name, 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 the downfall of EC Comics.

In a thrilling revival, EC Comics has risen from the ashes under the banner of Oni Press. It's 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*, a part of their ongoing series paying homage to EC classics. Feast your eyes on the artwork below:

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

For a side-by-side comparison, here's 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" 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. Alongside *Catacomb of Torment*, the imprint will also release *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 shared his excitement, 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."

Take a closer look at both *Blood Type* and *Catacomb of Torment* in the 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.