Marvel's Star Wars comics are entering a new phase. Previously, the publisher focused on the period 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 its storytelling across the Star Wars timeline. Star Wars: The Battle of Jakku depicts the final major conflict between the Rebellion and the Empire. Star Wars: Jedi Knights explores the Jedi Order before The Phantom Menace. Most notably, Star Wars: Legacy of Vader delves deeply into Kylo Ren's character.
IGN interviewed Legacy of Vader writer Charles Soule to discuss the series and its impact on Ben Solo's portrayal. 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.
"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 felt there was more to tell. The films only show us so much; a significant part of Kylo's story 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 great opportunity. Kylo is as emotionally charged as a character can get."
Soule also reunited with artist Luke Ross, collaborating again after War of the Bounty Hunters and Dark Droids.
"I jump at the chance to work with Luke!" Soule said. "His work has improved 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 is set immediately after The Last Jedi. Ben failed to convert Rey, battled Luke, nearly killed his mother, and now controls the First Order. The series explores his internal conflict as he tries to overcome his past.
"Poor Ben," Soule commented. "We see glimpses of him in The Last Jedi and The Rise of Skywalker, 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! Kylo wants to move on, but the trauma is raw."
The series begins with Ben visiting 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, trying to convince himself of his power. But he's lost. While claiming to kill his past, he seeks guidance. That's his relationship with his grandfather – conflicted."
The First Order's internal politics also feature prominently, with Hux's dislike for Kylo and Pryde's plotting. Kylo's consolidation of power within the First Order is a key storyline.
"I'd be disappointed not to explore the First Order's internal struggles," Soule stated. "Hux and Pryde are in the book. Kylo's journey is central, but his manipulation of the First Order is part of the narrative."
Star Wars: Legacy of Vader aims to enhance our understanding of Kylo Ren/Ben Solo, adding layers to the Sequel Trilogy villain. While the ending is known, the book will illuminate Ben Solo's motivations and choices in The Rise of Skywalker.
"I've been telling Star Wars stories for a decade," Soule said. "I strive to make each story standalone while connecting to the larger Star Wars canon. This book is about Kylo's struggle for self-definition. He's constantly battling turmoil and pain. Some fans might see this through the lens of Ben's struggle within Kylo. But it also works if you know nothing about Kylo, showing his search for identity. He's a dark wizard with a lightsaber, plenty of angst and drama, but also action. Fans will love it."
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.
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