Impact (E.C.)

    (E.C., 1955)
™ and © William M. Gaines, Agent

EC Comics had built its reputation on series like Tales From the Crypt and Haunt of Fear. Remembered as some of the finest horror comics ever produced, they fell under fire from the new Comics Code Authority. The Comics Code specifically banned or limited depictions of the supernatural, crime, corruption, and graphic horror. These were the very hallmarks of EC’s comics.

In 1955, EC desperately launched a “New Direction” of comics which tried to meet the strictures of the Comics Code. These included Aces High, Valor, and a curious title called Psychoanalysis. Impact was meant to replace such “ironic ending” titles as Crime SuspenStories. However, it lacked the elements of mystery and passion that had so marked EC’s earlier series. Instead, it contained half-hearted attempts at moralizing, and “unexpected endings” that could be seen from miles off. Greeted with disappointment by readers, Impact lasted only five issues.
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