Oni Press Resurrects EC Comics Glory with CRUEL UNIVERSE 2 #1 and a “SUMMER OF FEAR”!
The legendary and infamous EC Comics imprint is making a monumental return! This August, Oni Press, a publisher celebrated for its groundbreaking comics since 1997, will launch EC Comics CRUEL UNIVERSE 2 #1. This marks a thrilling new chapter for the revered EC name, promising a fresh dose of the science-fiction and horror that made it a cult classic. This announcement, direct from Oni Press, signals not just a new series, but an entire “SUMMER OF FEAR” event poised to captivate a new generation of readers while thrilling long-time fans. As devoted comic book fans, we’ve been eagerly awaiting details, and they don’t disappoint.
This initiative represents a significant moment in comics. EC Comics, known for its boundary-pushing narratives and iconic art style in the mid-20th century, left an indelible mark on the medium. Its revival through Oni Press, a publisher with a strong E-E-A-T (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, or Trustworthiness) in delivering diverse and quality titles, is a match made in the sequential art heavens. The purpose of this post is to delve into what awaits us in this sadistic science-fiction sensation and the other terrifying tales emerging from the crypt.
EC Comics CRUEL UNIVERSE 2 #1: A New Era of Sci-Fi Terror
The flagship of this revival, EC Comics CRUEL UNIVERSE 2 #1, is set to be a colossal 40-page milestone, kicking off an unrelenting 12-issue maxi-series on August 6th, 2025. The premise is chillingly classic EC: “Whether future or past, Earth or a distant world, no man can outrun the infinite singularity within us all: FEAR!” This doomed expedition into cold, unforgiving galaxies promises to splice the immortal EC Comics genome into a new breed of parasitic extraterrestrial tales, all with an endless appetite for pain.
This journey into the vast, unsympathetic, and envious unknown is helmed by a truly star-studded creative lineup. Prepare for nihilistic navigators like:
- Writers: J. Holtham (known for EC’s Epitaphs from the Abyss), the legendary Ann Nocenti (Daredevil), and the acclaimed Greg Pak (Planet Hulk).
- Artists: The distinctive David Rubín (Sherlock Frankenstein), Kano (Immortal Iron Fist), and the iconic Charlie Adlard (The Walking Dead).
This team is poised to smash the laws of science and deliver tales that will linger long after the final page. Furthermore, as an added bonus, each issue will feature a nerve-rending science fiction classic from the EC vaults, painstakingly remastered and newly restored to its original coloring – a true treat for collectors and historians of the medium.
The visual feast extends to the covers. EC Comics CRUEL UNIVERSE 2 #1 will boast a stunning Cover A by the incomparable Lee Bermejo (Joker). Variant cover enthusiasts will also have plenty to hunt for, with contributions from Tom Fowler (Books of Magic), Albert Monteys (Universe!), Malachi Ward (Black Hammer: The End), and Liam Sharp (Green Lantern). The array of covers, including a Gold Foil Variant by Lee Bermejo, an EC Homage Variant by Albert Monteys, a B&W Artist Edition Variant by Tom Fowler, an Archive Edition by Malachi Ward, and a Squa Tront Variant by Liam Sharp with Tom Fowler, ensures that these issues will be highly sought after. Discussing these beautiful and varied editions often brings up how fans appreciate noteworthy comic book covers as an art form in themselves.
The “SUMMER OF FEAR” Spreads: BLOOD TYPE and CATACOMB OF TORMENT
The terror doesn’t begin and end with CRUEL UNIVERSE. Oni Press is unleashing EC’s “SUMMER OF FEAR” with two other spine-chilling series.
First, in June 2025, EC BLOOD TYPE #1 will sink its fangs into readers. This 4-issue mini-series, born from the pages of EPITAPHS FROM THE ABYSS, introduces EC’s own blood-splattered, bon vivant vampire. This marks the first-ever standalone horror series from the notorious EC name in its modern revival. Helming this bloody affair are Hugo Award-nominated writer Corinna Bechko (Green Lantern: Earth One) and Eisner Award-winning artist Andrea Sorrentino (Gideon Falls). Expect a blend of chilling horror and dark humor as this resourceful and deadly vampire navigates a tropical isle. Cover artists for BLOOD TYPE #1 include Miguel Mercado, Andrea Sorrentino, Albert Monteys, Patricia Martin, and Kyle Hotz.
Then, in July 2025, the “SUMMER OF FEAR” continues with EC CATACOMB OF TORMENT #1, an all-new ongoing series. This title ushers in The Tormentor, a new horror host with an insatiable interest in human anatomy, into the shadow-strewn halls of EC Comics history. This 40-page comic promises three all-new and blisteringly brutal tales of mayhem and malice in the undying EC tradition. The creative rack for the first issue includes master storytellers John Arcudi (B.P.R.D.), Marguerite Bennett (Batwoman), and Matt Kindt (BRZRKR), with art by David Lapham (Stray Bullets), Dan McDaid (Shazam!), and Patrick Piazzalunga. Cover art for this gruesome debut will be provided by Jorge Fornés, Tom Fowler, Jay Stephens, Patricia Martin, and Dustin Weaver.
This ambitious rollout by Oni Press demonstrates a deep understanding and respect for the EC Comics legacy. By enlisting top-tier talent and offering a mix of maxi-series, mini-series, and ongoing titles, they are ensuring that this revival is not just a fleeting moment of nostalgia but a sustainable and exciting new era for fans of intelligent and challenging horror and science fiction. The inclusion of remastered classics alongside new material further bridges the gap between EC’s storied past and its promising future.
The meticulous attention to detail, from creator pairings to the variety of variant covers, shows a commitment to quality that would make William M. Gaines proud. Each 40-page issue, priced at $4.99, aims to deliver substantial content, making them a worthy addition to any discerning comic collector’s pull list. The announced Initial Order Cutoff (IOC) and Final Order Cutoff (FOC) dates also give retailers and readers ample time to secure their copies of these sure-to-be hot commodities.
The return of EC Comics, spearheaded by EC Comics CRUEL UNIVERSE 2, is more than just a publishing event; it’s a revitalization of a storytelling ethos. EC Comics never shied away from the grim, the shocking, or the thought-provoking, and it appears Oni Press is ready to carry that torch into the 21st century. This “SUMMER OF FEAR” is shaping up to be a landmark moment for comic book horror and sci-fi.
In conclusion, the upcoming releases from Oni Press, especially EC Comics CRUEL UNIVERSE 2 #1, along with BLOOD TYPE #1 and CATACOMB OF TORMENT #1, herald an exciting resurrection of the EC Comics spirit. With formidable creative teams and a clear vision, this “SUMMER OF FEAR” is set to deliver unforgettable tales of terror and cosmic dread.
What are your thoughts on this monumental EC Comics revival by Oni Press? Which of these series are you most anticipating? Head over to our Twitter page and share your screams with us!
