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 Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi, with series like Star Wars, Darth Vader, and Doctor Aphra. Now, with those concluded, Marvel is exploring other eras. Star Wars: The Battle of Jakku depicts the final clash between the Rebellion and the Empire, while Star Wars: Jedi Knights delves into the Jedi Order before The Phantom Menace. Most notably, Star Wars: Legacy of Vader offers a deeper look into Kylo Ren.

IGN interviewed writer Charles Soule about Legacy of Vader and its impact on Ben Solo's character. See the exclusive preview below, then read on.

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," 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 a fraction of his story; much is implied or unaddressed."

He continued, "Setting this after Episode VIII allows me to explore a character undergoing immense change in a short time. His life has drastically altered, providing a huge opportunity. Kylo is incredibly emotional, making him a compelling character to write."

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 exclaimed. "His work has improved with each project, and this one is phenomenal. 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 sway 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 know he's still there, but he's buried deep within Kylo Ren. He's confronted 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 story 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 series will also delve into First Order politics, featuring General Hux and General Pryde. Kylo Ren's actions and their impact on the First Order will be a key element.

"I'd be disappointed to not explore the First Order's internal politics," Soule said. "Hux and Pryde are present. 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 deepen our understanding of Kylo Ren/Ben Solo, adding layers to the Sequel Trilogy villain. The book will illuminate his choices in The Rise of Skywalker.

"I've been telling Star Wars stories for a decade," Soule said. "Each story should stand alone, but also connect to the larger canon. This book explores Kylo Ren's struggle for self-definition, filled with turmoil and pain. Some fans will see it through the lens of Ben Solo's inner conflict, but it also works without that knowledge—a young person searching for themselves, who also happens to be a dark space wizard."

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

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