Marvel's Star Wars comic line is undergoing a significant shift. Previously, the publisher primarily focused 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 series concluded, Marvel is expanding into other eras. Star Wars: The Battle of Jakku depicts the final major clash between the Rebel Alliance and the Empire's remnants. Star Wars: Jedi Knights explores the Jedi Order before The Phantom Menace. Most notably, Star Wars: Legacy of Vader delves deeply into Adam Driver's Kylo Ren.
IGN interviewed Legacy of Vader writer Charles Soule. Below is an exclusive preview, followed by insights into the series.
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.
"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, which chronicled Ben Solo's transformation. That was pre-Episode VII, and I always felt there was more to tell. The films only show us so much; much of Kylo's story is implied or unaddressed."
He continued, "Setting this after Episode VIII lets me explore a character undergoing immense change in a short time – his life has drastically altered. It's a huge opportunity. You want emotionally complex characters – and Kylo is as emotionally charged as they come."
Soule also reunited with artist Luke Ross (collaborator on War of the Bounty Hunters and Dark Droids).
"I'll work with Luke whenever possible!" Soule said. "His work improves with each project, and this one...wow. He's perfectly captured Kylo Ren's turmoil and unpredictable rage. Luke, and 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 turn Rey, battled Luke, nearly killed his mother, and controls the First Order. The series explores his turmoil as he tries to overcome his past.
"Poor Ben. We see glimpses of him in The Last Jedi and Rise of Skywalker, but right now he's buried deep within Kylo Ren," Soule commented. "In weeks, he's confronted Luke, killed Snoke and his father, almost killed his mother, connected with Rey, and commands the First Order. Kylo wants to move on, but the trauma is raw."
The series begins with Ben visiting Darth Vader's Mustafar fortress, attempting to conquer his past but grappling with his grandfather's influence. Soule hints at Ben's conflicted feelings towards Anakin Skywalker.
"Kylo isn't honest with himself," Soule explained. "He makes grand pronouncements, postures, trying to convince himself he feels a certain way – untouchable, all-powerful. But he's lost. While claiming to kill his past, he seeks guidance. That's his feeling about his grandfather – conflicted."
The First Order's internal dynamics also feature prominently. General Hux's dislike for Kylo and Pryde's plotting are addressed. The First Order's politics are crucial as Kylo consolidates power.
"I'd be disappointed not to explore the First Order's internal politics," Soule said. "Hux is in the book, and Pryde was around then. Kylo's journey is central, but his use and development 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 layers 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 said. "I aim for each story to stand alone while fitting into the larger Star Wars canon."
He continued, "This book is about Kylo Ren's struggle for self-definition. Every moment is filled with turmoil and pain. Some fans might say that's because he's not truly Kylo – part of him is Ben – and the story can be viewed that way. But it also works if you know nothing about Kylo Ren – that he's searching for himself, like many young people. Of course, he's also a dark space wizard with a lightsaber. There's angst and drama, but plenty of action too. I think fans will love it."
Star Wars: Legacy of Vader #1 releases February 5, 2025.
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