"Catacomb of Torment Honors Iconic Horror Comic Cover"

1954's *Crime SuspenStories #22* is widely recognized as one of the most infamous and iconic horror comics ever published. Even if the issue's title doesn't sound familiar, the chilling image of a man wielding an ax and holding his wife's severed head is unforgettable. This comic significantly contributed to the anti-comics backlash of the 1950s, prompting the creation of the Comics Code Authority and ultimately leading to the downfall of EC Comics.

Fortunately, EC Comics has made a comeback as a new imprint at Oni Press. In a fitting tribute, the latest EC release honors Johnny Craig's controversial cover art. IGN is excited to exclusively reveal artist Jay Stephens' cover for *Catacomb of Torment #1*, part of an ongoing series celebrating classic EC tributes. Take a look below:

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

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

Art by Johnny Craig. (Image Credit: EC Comics)

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

"Our EC Comics line is not only the best-selling series in Oni's nearly 30-year history, but it's also incredibly enjoyable to work on," said Oni Press President & Publisher Hunter Gorinson. "After surpassing our high expectations with *Epitaphs From the Abyss*, *Cruel Universe*, and *Cruel Kingdom* last year, we're pushing ourselves to be even bolder, bigger, and bloodier as EC enters its second year of revival."

"Working on EC for the past year has been a source of inspiration for everyone involved—from the Oni team to our partners crafting these compact worlds at every stage of production," said Oni Press Editor in Chief Sierra Hahn. "It's a delight to continue bringing these engaging morality tales to life with the best storytellers in the industry. This summer's lineup of comics is no exception."

Explore more from *Blood Type* and *Catacomb of Torment* in the slideshow gallery below: