1954's Crime SuspenStories #22 stands as one of the most notorious and iconic horror comics ever published. Even if the issue's title doesn't immediately come to mind, the striking image of a man wielding an ax and holding his wife's severed head is undoubtedly familiar. This comic significantly fueled the anti-comics backlash of the 1950s, leading to the establishment of the Comics Code Authority and ultimately contributing to the downfall of EC Comics.

In a thrilling revival, EC Comics has been resurrected as a new imprint under Oni Press. It's only fitting that their latest release honors Johnny Craig's infamous cover art. IGN is excited to exclusively reveal artist Jay Stephens' cover for Catacomb of Torment #1, a part of an ongoing series paying homage to classic EC works. Take a look below:

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

Catacomb of Torment is one of several new EC titles launching as part of the imprint's "Summer of Fear" promotion. This horror anthology series includes contributions from acclaimed creators like 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.

Oni Press President & Publisher Hunter Gorinson expressed enthusiasm about the EC Comics line, 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 slideshow gallery below:

EC Comics' Summer of Fear Preview Gallery

18 ImagesThe "Summer of Fear" campaign kicks off with the release of Blood Type #1 in June 2025.

For more classic comic book art, explore our selections of the most iconic superhero comic book covers of all time.