1954's Crime SuspenStories #22 stands as one of the most notorious and iconic horror comics ever published. Even if the title doesn't sound familiar, the chilling image of a man wielding an ax and holding his wife's severed head is undoubtedly recognizable. 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 contributed to the downfall of EC Comics.

Fortunately, EC Comics has been revived as a new imprint under Oni Press. In a fitting tribute to the controversial cover art by Johnny Craig from Crime SuspenStories #22, IGN is excited to exclusively reveal artist Jay Stephens' cover for Catacomb of Torment #1. This release is part of an ongoing series celebrating classic EC Comics. Take a look at the new cover below:

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

Catacomb of Torment is one of several new titles launching as part of EC Comics' "Summer of Fear" campaign. This horror anthology series features contributions from acclaimed creators such as 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 enthusiasm, 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 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" campaign 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.