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 titles like Star Wars, Darth Vader, and Doctor Aphra. Now, with those concluded, Marvel is expanding into other eras. 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 backstory.
IGN interviewed writer Charles Soule about Legacy of Vader and its impact on Ben Solo's character. (See the preview gallery below.)
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. He felt there was much more to tell about Kylo, whose story in the films is largely implied or unexplored. This new series, set after Episode VIII, focuses on Kylo's significant changes in a short time.
Soule also reunited with artist Luke Ross (collaborator on War of the Bounty Hunters and Dark Droids) for this project, praising Ross's ability to capture Kylo's turmoil and rage.
Ben Solo After The Last Jedi
Legacy of Vader takes place 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 overcome his past. Soule notes Ben's internal struggle, his conflicted feelings about his grandfather, Darth Vader, and his tendency towards self-deception. Ben's journey to Mustafar to visit Vader's fortress is a key element of the story.
The series also delves into the First Order's internal politics, featuring characters like General Hux and General Pryde. Kylo's consolidation of power within the First Order is a significant plot point.
The ultimate goal is to enrich our understanding of Kylo Ren/Ben Solo, providing context for his actions in The Rise of Skywalker. While the ending is known, the comic aims to illuminate Ben Solo's motivations and character. Soule emphasizes the balance of action and emotional depth in 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.
