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, through titles like Star Wars, Darth Vader, and Doctor Aphra. With those concluded, Marvel is expanding its focus across the Star Wars timeline. Star Wars: The Battle of Jakku depicts the final major clash between the Rebellion and the Empire. Star Wars: Jedi Knights explores the Jedi Order before The Phantom Menace. However, Star Wars: Legacy of Vader, promises a deep dive into Adam Driver's Kylo Ren, is arguably the most intriguing.
IGN spoke with Legacy of Vader writer Charles Soule to discuss the series and its impact on the enigmatic Ben Solo. Below is an exclusive preview, followed by the interview.
Star Wars: Legacy of Vader - Preview Art Gallery
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Revisiting Kylo Ren's Story
Soule, known for the post-Empire Strikes Back era Star Wars series and crossovers like War of the Bounty Hunters and Dark Droids, shifted his focus several decades forward. His motivation? A return to Kylo Ren, a character he previously explored in 2020.
"I've wanted to revisit Kylo Ren for a long time," Soule told IGN. "It's been over four years since The Rise of Kylo Ren, the miniseries I co-created with Will Sliney detailing Ben Solo's transformation. That was pre-Episode VII, and I always felt there was more to tell. Like Darth Vader, the films only show us so much; a significant part of Kylo's story is implied or unaddressed."
He continued, "Setting this book after Episode VIII lets me explore a character undergoing immense change in a short time – his life has drastically altered. It's a fantastic opportunity. You want emotionally resonant characters – and Kylo is as emotionally charged as they come."
Soule also reunited with Luke Ross, a frequent collaborator, for this project.
"I'll work with Luke whenever possible!" Soule exclaimed. "We've collaborated on three major Star Wars projects – War of the Bounty Hunters, Dark Droids, and now this. His work improves with each project, and this one… is incredible. He's perfectly captured Kylo Ren's turmoil and unpredictable rage. Luke, and our colorist Nolan Woodard, are doing exceptional work."
Ben Solo After The Last Jedi
Legacy of Vader takes place immediately after The Last Jedi. Ben failed to turn Rey, battled Luke, almost killed his mother, and now controls the galaxy's most powerful military. The series explores his profound turmoil as he tries to escape his past.
"Poor Ben. We know he's still in there, but right now he's buried deep within Kylo Ren," Soule stated. "In a short time, he confronted Luke, killed Snoke and his father, almost killed his mother, connected with Rey, and seized control of the First Order. All within weeks! Kylo wants to move on, but that trauma is raw and difficult to overcome."
The series begins with Ben visiting Darth Vader's Mustafar fortress, attempting to conquer his past by confronting his grandfather's legacy. Soule hints at Ben's conflicted feelings towards Anakin Skywalker.
"Kylo isn't honest with himself," Soule explained. "He makes grand pronouncements, posturing, convincing himself he feels a certain way – untouchable and all-powerful. But he's lost. While claiming to kill his past, he secretly seeks guidance. That's his relationship with his grandfather – conflicted."
The First Order's internal dynamics will also be a key element, featuring characters like General Hux and General Pryde.
"I'd be disappointed if I didn't explore the First Order's internal politics," Soule said. "Hux and Pryde are in the book. Kylo's journey is central, but his manipulation of the First Order is part of the story."
Star Wars: Legacy of Vader aims to deepen our understanding of Kylo Ren/Ben Solo, adding layers to the Sequel Trilogy villain. While we know the ending, the book will illuminate 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 fitting into the larger Star Wars canon. This book is about Kylo's struggle for self-definition, a difficult journey filled with turmoil and pain. Some fans might see it through the lens of Ben's inner struggle, but it also works if you know nothing about Kylo – he's searching for himself, like many young people. Of course, he's also a dark space wizard with a lightsaber. It's full of angst and drama, but also action. I think fans will love it."
Star Wars: Legacy of Vader #1 releases February 5, 2025.
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