Marvel's Star Wars comics are entering a new phase. Previously focused on the period between Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi, Marvel is now expanding its storytelling across different eras. Star Wars: The Battle of Jakku covers the final clash between the Rebels and the Empire, Star Wars: Jedi Knights explores the Jedi Order before The Phantom Menace, and Star Wars: Legacy of Vader delves deep into Kylo Ren's psyche.
IGN spoke with Charles Soule, writer of Legacy of Vader, about this new series and its impact on Kylo Ren's character. Below is an exclusive preview:
Star Wars: Legacy of Vader - Preview Art Gallery
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Revisiting Kylo Ren
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 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 show a fraction of his story; much is implied or unaddressed."
He continues, "Setting this after Episode VIII allows me to explore a character undergoing immense change in a short time. It's a huge opportunity. Kylo is as emotionally complex as a character can get."
Soule also highlights his reunion with artist Luke Ross: "I'll work with Luke whenever possible! His work has improved with each project, and this one is incredible. 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 sway Rey, battled Luke, nearly killed his mother, and controls the First Order. The series explores his inner turmoil as he grapples with his past.
"Poor Ben," Soule says. "We know he's still there, but 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! He wants to move on, but the trauma is overwhelming."
The series begins with Ben visiting 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 explains. "He makes grand pronouncements, posturing, trying to convince himself he's untouchable. But he's lost. While claiming to kill his past, he seeks guidance, even from his grandfather. He's conflicted."
The story also delves into the First Order's internal politics, featuring characters like Hux and Pryde. Kylo Ren's consolidation of power within the First Order is a significant plot element.
"I'd be disappointed not to explore the First Order's internal conflicts," Soule says. "Hux and Pryde are present. Kylo's journey is central, but his manipulation of the First Order is crucial to the story."
Star Wars: Legacy of Vader aims to enrich our understanding of Kylo Ren/Ben Solo, offering new insights into his choices in The Rise of Skywalker. While the ending is known, the series will deepen our understanding of Ben Solo's character.
"I've been telling Star Wars stories for a decade," Soule says. "I strive to create standalone narratives while connecting them to the broader Star Wars canon. This book focuses on Kylo Ren's struggle for self-definition; it's not easy for him. It's filled with turmoil and pain. Some fans will see it through the lens of Ben's inner struggle, while others will appreciate it simply as a story about self-discovery. Of course, he's also a powerful dark side user with a lightsaber. There's plenty of angst and action."
Star Wars: Legacy of Vader #1 releases February 5, 2025.
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