Vader Legacy Expands Kylo Ren's Past

Marvel's Star Wars comics are entering a new phase. Previously, the publisher focused on the year between Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi, with series like Star Wars, Darth Vader, and Doctor Aphra. Now, with those concluded, Marvel is expanding into other eras. Star Wars: The Battle of Jakku covers the final clash between the Rebels and the Empire's remnants. Star Wars: Jedi Knights explores the Jedi Order before The Phantom Menace. Most notably, Star Wars: Legacy of Vader delves deep into Kylo Ren's character.

IGN interviewed writer Charles Soule about Legacy of Vader and its impact on Ben Solo. See the exclusive preview below, then read on.

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 Star Wars 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.

Soule stated, "I've wanted to revisit Kylo Ren for a long time. It's been over four years since The Rise of Kylo Ren, which chronicled Ben Solo's transformation. That was pre-Episode VII, and I always felt there was more to tell. The films only show us so much; a significant part of Kylo's story is implied or unaddressed."

He continues, "Setting this after Episode VIII lets me explore a character undergoing immense change in a short time. His life has drastically altered. It's a great opportunity. You want emotionally complex characters – and Kylo is as emotionally charged as they come."

Soule also reunited with artist Luke Ross (collaborator on War of the Bounty Hunters and Dark Droids). "I'll work with Luke whenever possible! His work improves with each project, and this one…wow. He perfectly captures Kylo Ren's turmoil and unpredictable rage. Luke, and colorist Nolan Woodard, are doing exceptional work."

Ben Solo After The Last Jedi

Legacy of Vader is set immediately after The Last Jedi. Ben failed to turn Rey, battled Luke, nearly killed his mother, and controls the First Order. The series explores his turmoil as he tries to escape his past.

Soule says, "Poor Ben. We know he's still in there, but right now he's buried deep within Kylo Ren. In a short time, he's confronted Luke, killed Snoke and his father, almost killed his mother, connected with Rey, and commands the First Order. All in weeks! Kylo wants to move on, but the trauma is raw."

The series begins with Ben on Mustafar, visiting Darth Vader's fortress. He's trying to kill his past, but must confront his grandfather's legacy. Soule hints at Ben's conflicted feelings about Anakin Skywalker.

"Kylo isn't honest with himself," Soule explains. "He makes grand pronouncements, posturing, convincing himself he feels a certain way – untouchable and powerful. But he's lost. While claiming to kill his past, he seeks guidance. That's how he feels about his grandfather – conflicted."

The First Order's internal politics are also a focus. Hux dislikes Kylo, and Pryde plots. The series shows Kylo consolidating power.

Soule adds, "I'd be disappointed not to explore the First Order's internal struggles. Hux and Pryde are in the book. Kylo's journey is central, but his use of the First Order is part of the story."

Star Wars: Legacy of Vader aims to enhance our understanding of Kylo Ren/Ben Solo. While we know the ending, the book will clarify his choices in The Rise of Skywalker.

Soule concludes, "I've been telling Star Wars stories for a decade. I strive to make each story stand alone while fitting into the larger canon. This book is about Kylo Ren's struggle for self-definition; it's not easy. Every moment is filled with turmoil and pain. Some fans will see it as Ben struggling within Kylo. But it also works if you know nothing about Kylo – he's searching for himself, like many young people. He's also a dark space wizard with a lightsaber. There's angst and drama, but plenty of action too."

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

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