"Catacomb of Torment Honors Iconic Horror Comic Cover"

1954's Crime SuspenStories #22 is perhaps the most notorious and iconic horror comic ever published. Even if the title doesn't immediately come to mind, you're likely familiar with the chilling image of a man wielding an ax and holding his wife's severed head. This comic played a significant role in sparking the anti-comics movement of the 1950s, leading to the establishment of the Comics Code Authority and ultimately contributing to the downfall of EC Comics.

Fortunately, EC Comics has risen from the ashes as a new imprint at Oni Press. It's 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, which is part of a series of tributes to classic EC Comics. Take a look at Stephens' cover below:

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

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

Sierra Hahn, Oni Press Editor in Chief, 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 from Blood Type and Catacomb of Torment in the slideshow gallery below:

EC Comics' Summer of Fear Preview Gallery

18 Images

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

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