Vader's Legacy Fills Gap in Kylo Ren's Journey

Marvel's Star Wars comics are entering a new phase. Previously focused on the period between The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi, Marvel is now expanding its storytelling to other points in the Star Wars timeline. Star Wars: The Battle of Jakku covers the final clash between the Rebellion and the Empire, while Star Wars: Jedi Knights explores the Jedi Order before The Phantom Menace. However, Star Wars: Legacy of Vader, a new series focusing on Kylo Ren, is arguably the most anticipated.

IGN recently interviewed Charles Soule, the writer of Legacy of Vader, to discuss the series and its impact on the enigmatic Ben Solo. Below is an exclusive preview:

Star Wars: Legacy of Vader - Preview Art Gallery

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Revisiting Kylo Ren's Story

Soule, known for his work on the post-Empire Strikes Back era, including the flagship Star Wars series and crossovers like War of the Bounty Hunters and Dark Droids, explains his return to Kylo Ren, a character he previously explored in 2020's The Rise of Kylo Ren. He felt there was more to tell about Kylo's story beyond what the films depicted.

"I've wanted to revisit Kylo Ren for a long time," Soule stated. "It's been over four years since The Rise of Kylo Ren, and I've always believed there was more to explore. The films only show a fraction of his story; much of it is implied or unaddressed."

He continued, "Setting this after Episode VIII allows me to explore a character undergoing immense change in a short period. It's a fantastic opportunity. Kylo is as emotionally complex as a character can be."

Soule also expressed excitement about reuniting with artist Luke Ross and colorist Nolan Woodard, praising their ability to capture Kylo Ren's turmoil and unpredictable rage.

Ben Solo After The Last Jedi

Legacy of Vader takes place immediately after The Last Jedi. Ben has failed to sway Rey to the dark side, battled Luke, nearly killed his mother, and now controls the First Order. The series delves into his internal conflict as he grapples with his past.

"Poor Ben," Soule commented. "We see glimpses of him in The Last Jedi and The Rise of Skywalker, but at this point, he's buried deep within Kylo Ren. He's faced Luke, killed Snoke and his father, almost killed his mother, connected with Rey, and now leads the First Order – all in weeks! He wants to move on, but the trauma is overwhelming."

The series begins with Ben visiting Darth Vader's fortress on Mustafar, attempting to confront his past and his conflicted feelings about his grandfather, Anakin Skywalker. Soule hints at Ben's internal dishonesty and his search for guidance despite his outward posturing.

The story will also explore the First Order's internal politics, focusing on the strained relationships between Kylo Ren, General Hux, and Allegiant General Pryde. The power struggles within the First Order will be a significant part of the narrative.

The aim of Star Wars: Legacy of Vader is to provide a deeper understanding of Kylo Ren/Ben Solo, adding layers to the Sequel Trilogy villain. While the outcome is known, the series will illuminate his motivations and choices.

Soule concluded, "This book explores Kylo Ren's struggle for self-definition. His life is filled with turmoil and pain. Some fans might see this through the lens of Ben's inner struggle, but it also works if you only know him from these pages – a young person searching for themselves, who also happens to be a powerful dark side user. It's full of angst and drama, but also plenty of action."

Star Wars: Legacy of Vader #1 releases February 5, 2025.