Oni Press Revives Classic EC Comics Horror This Summer
A chilling wind blows through the world of comics this summer. The legendary legacy of EC Comics horror is being reborn. Oni Press, the acclaimed publisher behind numerous Eisner and Harvey Award-winning titles, officially announced the next chapter in its “SUMMER OF FEAR” event: Catacomb of Torment #1. This ongoing monthly series is poised to deliver the perfect blend of satire and suspense that made the original EC books iconic. For fans who appreciate groundbreaking and terrifying stories, this announcement is a major event. It signals a genuine commitment to reviving a beloved and influential style of comic book storytelling for a whole new generation.
This isn’t just a simple homage; it’s a full-throated revival. Oni Press is channeling the spirit of William M. Gaines to create something both nostalgic and brutally new. The publisher promises absolutely no holds will be barred, assembling a team of master storytellers to drag readers into the abyss. We believe this commitment to quality and terror will make for some of the most talked-about new comics of the year.
What Is the New EC Comics Horror Anthology?
The heart of this frightening new venture is Catacomb of Torment #1. Emerging from the grim shadows of Epitaphs from the Abyss, this series introduces a brand-new horror host into the EC pantheon: The Tormentor. This ghoulish guide has a particularly macabre interest in human anatomy and will be our master of ceremonies for each 40-page issue. The anthology format is key to the EC Comics horror tradition, allowing for a diverse collection of blisteringly brutal tales within a single book. These are the kinds of stories designed to find that uncomfortable spot in your psyche and linger there.
Editor-in-Chief Sierra Hahn emphasizes this point, stating that the tales in Catacomb of Torment “pick at the scab of what makes us uncomfortable.” This focus on psychological dread, paired with visceral horror, is precisely what made the original titles so infamous and beloved. Furthermore, as a special treat for devoted fans, each issue will feature a surprise classic story from the EC vaults. These tales will be painstakingly remastered and newly restored to their original, vibrant coloring, bridging the gap between the past and the terrifying present. This entire experience is designed to be a must-read for horror aficionados.
The All-Star Creative Torture Team
A revival of this magnitude depends entirely on the creators tasked with bringing the nightmares to life. Oni Press has assembled a murderer’s row of talent to ensure the new era of EC Comics horror begins with a scream.
The debut issue features a trio of distinct and celebrated writers:
- John Arcudi (B.P.R.D.)
- Matt Kindt (BRZRKR)
- Marguerite Bennett (Batwoman)
Their scripts are brought to life by an equally impressive team of artists, each with a unique flair for the macabre:
- David Lapham (Stray Bullets)
- Dan McDaid (Shazam!)
- Patrick Piazzalunga (Those Not Afraid)
This collection of talent all but guarantees a high-quality product. The experience is made complete with a stunning gallery of comic book covers. The main cover is by the masterful Jorge Fornés, with variants from Tom Fowler, Patricia Martín, Jay Stephens, and Dustin Weaver that are sure to turn heads and churn stomachs.
The “SUMMER OF FEAR” event also includes other soul-shattering titles, including Blood Type #2 (on sale July 9th) and the sci-fi dread of Cruel Universe 2 #1 (on sale August 6th).
In summary, Catacomb of Torment #1 represents a bold and bloody return to form for classic horror comics. It honors a legendary past while carving out a new, terrifying future. By embracing the core tenets of EC Comics horror and empowering an incredible creative team, Oni Press is set to deliver an unforgettable experience on July 16th.
What do you think of this revival? Are you ready for The Tormentor? Join the conversation over on our Twitter page: https://x.com/comicbookaddtc.
EC CATACOMB OF TORMENT #1
- Writers: John Arcudi, Marguerite Bennett & Matt Kindt
- Artists: David Lapham, Dan McDaid & Patrick Piazzalunga
- Cover A: Jorge Fornés
- Cover B: Tom Fowler
On Sale: July 16th, 2025 | $4.99 | 40 Pages
