How Star Wars: Legacy of Vader Fleshes Out Kylo Ren's Lost Year

Marvel's Star Wars comics are entering a new phase. Previously, the publisher focused on the year 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 different points in 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 into Kylo Ren's character in significant depth.

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 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 much more to tell about Kylo's story 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 films only show us so much; a large part of Kylo's story is implied or unaddressed."

He continued, "Setting this after Episode VIII allows me to focus on a character undergoing immense change in a short time. It's a fantastic opportunity. You want characters with emotional depth, and Kylo is as emotionally charged as they come."

Soule also reunited with artist Luke Ross, collaborating again after War of the Bounty Hunters and Dark Droids. "I'll work with Luke whenever possible!" Soule said. "His work has improved with each project, and this one is exceptional. He's perfectly captured Kylo Ren's turmoil and unpredictable rage."

Ben Solo After The Last Jedi

Legacy of Vader is set immediately after The Last Jedi. Ben has failed to turn Rey, battled Luke, nearly killed his mother, and controls the First Order. The series explores his internal conflict as he tries to escape his past.

"Poor Ben," Soule commented. "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! 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, trying to convince himself he feels a certain way. But he's lost. While claiming to kill his past, he also seeks guidance. That's how he feels about his grandfather – conflicted."

The story also explores First Order politics, including Hux's dislike for Kylo and Pryde's machinations. Kylo's consolidation of power within the First Order is a key element.

"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 the ending is known, the book will clarify 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 for each story to stand alone while connecting to the larger Star Wars canon. This book is about Kylo's struggle for self-definition. It's difficult for him; every moment is 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 powerful dark side user. There's angst and drama, but plenty of action too."

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