Marvel's Star Wars comics are entering a new phase. Previously, the publisher concentrated on the year between The 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 depicts the final clash between the Rebels and the Empire, while 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. Below is an exclusive preview.
Star Wars: Legacy of Vader - Preview Art Gallery
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Kylo Ren's Continued Story
Soule, known for his work on the post-Empire Strikes Back era, including 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.
"I've wanted to revisit Kylo Ren," Soule stated. "It's been over four years since The Rise of Kylo Ren, and I always felt there was more to tell. The films only show a fraction of his story; much is implied or unexplored."
He continued, "Setting this after Episode VIII allows me to focus on a character undergoing immense change in a short time. It's a chance to explore a character brimming with emotion."
Soule also reunited with artist Luke Ross, collaborating on War of the Bounty Hunters and Dark Droids.
"I'll work with Luke anytime!" Soule said. "His work has improved with each project, and this one is exceptional. He's perfectly captured Kylo Ren's turmoil and unpredictable rage."
Ben Solo After The Last Jedi
Legacy of Vader takes place immediately after The Last Jedi. Ben failed to convert Rey, battled Luke, nearly killed his mother, and controls the First Order. The series explores his internal conflict as he tries to overcome his past.
"Poor Ben," Soule commented. "We know he's still there, but he's been pushed into a dark corner of Kylo Ren's psyche. He's faced Luke, killed Snoke and his father, almost killed his mother, connected with Rey, and controls the First Order – all in weeks! He wants to move on, but the trauma is raw."
The series begins with Ben visiting Darth Vader's fortress on Mustafar, attempting to confront his past and his conflicted feelings towards his grandfather, Anakin Skywalker.
"Kylo isn't honest with himself," Soule explained. "He makes grand pronouncements, posturing, trying to convince himself he feels a certain way. But he's lost. While claiming to kill his past, he seeks guidance, reflecting his conflicted feelings about his grandfather."
The First Order's internal politics, featuring Hux and Pryde, will also play a significant role, showcasing Kylo Ren's efforts to consolidate power.
"I wouldn't want to write a story in this period without exploring the First Order's internal struggles," Soule stated. "Hux and Pryde are present. Kylo's journey is central, but his manipulation of the First Order is part of the narrative."
Star Wars: Legacy of Vader aims to deepen our understanding of Kylo Ren/Ben Solo, providing insight into his choices in The Rise of Skywalker.
"I've been telling Star Wars stories for a decade," Soule said. "I strive for each story to stand alone while contributing to the larger canon. This book is about Kylo Ren's struggle for self-definition, a journey filled with turmoil and pain. It works whether you know Kylo Ren or not – he's searching for himself, 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.
AnswerSee ResultsFor more on upcoming Star Wars projects, see our overview of all Star Wars movies and series in development.
