Star Wars: Legacy of Vader Reveals Kylo's Shadowy Past

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 expanding its storytelling across the Star Wars timeline. Star Wars: The Battle of Jakku covers the final major battle between the Rebellion and the Empire, Star Wars: Jedi Knights explores the Jedi Order before The Phantom Menace, and Star Wars: Legacy of Vader delves into Kylo Ren's backstory.

IGN interviewed Legacy of Vader writer Charles Soule to discuss the series and its impact on Kylo Ren. Below is an exclusive preview:

Star Wars: Legacy of Vader - Preview Art Gallery

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Kylo Ren's Continued Journey

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. He felt there was more to tell about Kylo's story, beyond what the films revealed. This series, set after Episode VIII, focuses on Kylo's significant changes in a short time.

Soule also highlights his reunion with artist Luke Ross, praising their collaborative work on this project.

Ben Solo After The Last Jedi

Legacy of Vader takes place immediately after The Last Jedi. Ben has failed to convert Rey, battled Luke, nearly killed his mother, and controls the First Order. The series explores his inner turmoil as he grapples with his past. Soule describes Ben's internal conflict, his attempts to distance himself from his past, and his conflicted feelings towards his grandfather, Darth Vader.

The story begins with Ben visiting Vader's fortress on Mustafar, highlighting his internal struggle and search for guidance. The series also delves into the First Order's internal politics, featuring characters like General Hux and General Pryde.

The ultimate goal is to provide a deeper understanding of Kylo Ren/Ben Solo, adding layers to the Sequel Trilogy villain. While the ending is known, the comic aims to illuminate Ben's choices in The Rise of Skywalker. Soule emphasizes the series' balance of personal struggle and action-packed sequences.

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