“Exquisite Corpses” Delivers Bloody Action in Image Comics’ Horror Epic
For 250 years, every five years on Halloween, twelve of the deadliest people in the world have been chosen to participate in a secret, bloody game orchestrated by the wealthiest families in the United States. The last survivor grants their clan full powers for five years. This premise drives “Exquisite Corpses,” the action-horror comic book limited series from Image Comics and Tiny Onion, created by James Tynion IV and Michael Walsh.
The series, set in Oak Valley, Maine, follows the chaos that unfolds when these assassins invade a quiet town, while local law enforcement is paid to ignore the carnage. The story explores themes of wealth, power, and violence, presented with a distinct, over-the-top aesthetic.
A Unique Cast of Killers
The assassins featured in “Exquisite Corpses” are designed with a deliberate sense of excess, resembling characters from console fighting games. Each possesses a unique weapon, costume, and persona. Examples include a giant rabbit adept at strangulation, a poisoning nurse, and a samurai with a fox mask wielding a katana [1].
Creative Team and Expansion Plans
James Tynion IV, known for his perform on Nice House on the Lake and Something is Killing the Children, co-created the series with artist Michael Walsh. The creative team also includes Jordie Bellaire (colorist) and Pornsak Pichetshote (The Good Asian) [3].
Tynion has stated that “Exquisite Corpses” is designed as a franchise with potential for expansion into spin-offs and other mediums [3]. He revealed in October 2025 that the series had sold over 400,000 copies in its first six months.
Release Schedule and Availability
“Exquisite Corpses” initially launched on May 14, 2025, as a 13-issue maxi-series [3]. As of March 24, 2026, the series is ongoing, with issue #13 scheduled for release on May 27, 2026, and issue #12 released on April 22, 2026 [1]. Issue #12 is available for purchase, with prices ranging from $4.99 to $5 [2]. A stealth variant cover for issue #12 is available for $4.99 as of April 22, 2026 [4].
The series is published monthly by Urban in the form of seven episodes, with three episodes already published [Source Material].