Star Wars: Vader's Legacy Unravels Kylo's Past

Marvel's Star Wars comics are entering a new phase. Previously, the publisher concentrated on the period between The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi, with titles like Star Wars, Darth Vader, and Doctor Aphra. Now, with those concluded, Marvel is expanding its scope. Star Wars: The Battle of Jakku covers 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 into Kylo Ren's backstory.

IGN interviewed writer Charles Soule about Legacy of Vader and its impact on Ben Solo. Below is an exclusive preview, followed by further details.

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 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 reveal so much; a significant portion of Kylo's story is implied or unaddressed."

He continued, "Setting this after Episode VIII allows me to explore a character undergoing immense change in a short period. It's a fantastic opportunity. You want emotionally resonant characters – and Kylo is as emotionally charged as they come."

Soule also reunited with artist Luke Ross, collaborating on War of the Bounty Hunters and Dark Droids.

"I'll work with Luke whenever possible!" Soule exclaimed. "His work improves with each project, and this one is exceptional. He's perfectly captured Kylo Ren's turmoil and unpredictable rage. Luke, and colorist Nolan Woodard, are doing incredible 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 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 Darth 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 explained. "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 reflects his feelings about his grandfather – he's conflicted."

The First Order's internal politics, featuring Hux and Pryde, are also significant, showcasing Kylo Ren's attempts to consolidate power.

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

Star Wars: Legacy of Vader aims to enhance our understanding of Kylo Ren/Ben Solo, adding depth to the Sequel Trilogy villain. While the ending is known, the book will illuminate Ben Solo's choices in The Rise of Skywalker.

"I've been telling Star Wars stories for a decade," Soule stated. "Each story stands alone, but also connects to the larger Star Wars canon."

He added, "This book is about Kylo Ren's struggle for self-definition. Every moment is filled with turmoil and pain. Some fans might see it through the lens of Ben's inner struggle. But even without knowing Kylo, the story shows someone searching for themselves. Of course, he's also a powerful dark side user. There's angst and drama, but plenty of action too."

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