Marvel's Star Wars comics are entering a new phase. Previously, the publisher primarily 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 the Star Wars timeline. Star Wars: The Battle of Jakku depicts the final major conflict between the Rebel Alliance and the Empire's remnants. The forthcoming Star Wars: Jedi Knights explores the Jedi Order before The Phantom Menace. Most notably, Star Wars: Legacy of Vader delves deep into the character of Kylo Ren.
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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Kylo Ren's Continued 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 more to tell about Kylo's story beyond what the films depicted.
He emphasizes the significant changes Kylo Ren underwent in a short period, providing a rich emotional landscape for exploration. Soule also highlights his reunion with artist Luke Ross, praising their collaborative work.
Ben Solo After The Last Jedi
Legacy of Vader is set immediately after The Last Jedi. Ben's failed attempt to sway Rey, his confrontation with Luke, and his near-murder of his mother, coupled with his control over the First Order, create a backdrop of intense turmoil. The series focuses on Ben's struggle to overcome his past.
Soule notes Ben's internal conflict, his attempts to appear powerful while feeling lost. The story begins with Ben visiting Darth Vader's fortress on Mustafar, highlighting his complex feelings towards his grandfather. Soule hints at Ben's internal conflict regarding his connection to Anakin Skywalker.
The series also explores the First Order's internal politics, featuring characters like General Hux and General Pryde. Kylo Ren's consolidation of power within the First Order is a key element of the narrative.
Legacy of Vader aims to deepen our understanding of Kylo Ren/Ben Solo, providing context to his actions in The Rise of Skywalker. While the ending is known, the series offers insights into Ben Solo's character and motivations.
Soule intends the story to stand alone while also enriching the broader Star Wars canon. He describes Kylo Ren's struggle for self-definition, his turmoil, and the action-packed elements of the story.
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.
