Marvel's Star Wars comics are entering a new phase. Previously focusing on the period between Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi, with series like Star Wars, Darth Vader, and Doctor Aphra, Marvel is now expanding its storytelling across different eras. Star Wars: The Battle of Jakku covers the final clash between the Rebels and the Empire, while Star Wars: Jedi Knights explores the Jedi Order before The Phantom Menace. However, Star Wars: Legacy of Vader, focusing on Kylo Ren, is arguably the most intriguing.
IGN spoke with writer Charles Soule about this new series and its exploration of Ben Solo. Below is an exclusive preview, followed by further details.
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. He felt there was more to tell, beyond what the films revealed:
"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 always believed there was more to explore. The movies only show us so much; a lot of Kylo's story is implied or unaddressed."
He continues, "Setting this after Episode VIII allows me to focus on a character undergoing immense change in a short period. It's a significant opportunity. Kylo is about as emotionally complex as a character can get."
Soule also reunited with artist Luke Ross, with whom he collaborated on previous Star Wars projects:
"I jump at any chance to work with Luke!" Soule says. "His work has improved with each project, and this one is exceptional. He perfectly captures Kylo Ren's turmoil and unpredictable rage. Luke, and our colorist Nolan Woodard, are doing phenomenal work."
Ben Solo After The Last Jedi
Legacy of Vader takes place immediately after The Last Jedi. Ben failed to sway 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 comments. "We know he's still in there, but right now, he's buried deep within Kylo Ren. He's faced Luke, killed Snoke and his father, almost killed his mother, connected with Rey, and commands the First Order – all in weeks! He wants to move on, but the trauma is raw."
The series begins with Ben visiting Vader's Mustafar fortress, attempting to confront his past and his conflicted feelings towards his grandfather, Anakin Skywalker:
"Kylo isn't honest with himself," Soule explains. "He makes grand pronouncements, posturing, convincing himself of things. He's lost. While claiming to kill his past, he seeks guidance. That's his relationship with his grandfather – conflicted."
The story will also delve into the First Order's internal politics, featuring characters like General Hux and General Pryde:
"I'd be disappointed not to explore the First Order's internal struggles," Soule says. "Hux and Pryde are present. Kylo's journey is central, but his use and development 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. While the ending is known, the comic will illuminate his character and motivations.
"I've been telling Star Wars stories for a decade," Soule says. "I aim for each story to stand alone, while also fitting into the larger canon. This book is about Kylo's struggle for self-definition. His life is turmoil and pain. Some fans might see it through the lens of Ben struggling within Kylo. But even without that context, it's a story about self-discovery – a dark space wizard with a lightsaber, plenty of angst, and action."
Star Wars: Legacy of Vader #1 releases February 5, 2025.
AnswerSee ResultsFor more on upcoming Star Wars projects, see our overview of all films and series in development.
