Marvel's Star Wars comics are entering a new phase. Previously, the publisher concentrated 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 to other points in the Star Wars timeline. Star Wars: The Battle of Jakku depicts the final major clash between the Rebellion and the Empire's remnants. Star Wars: Jedi Knights explores the Jedi Order before The Phantom Menace. Most notably, Star Wars: Legacy of Vader delves deep into Kylo Ren's character.

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

Star Wars: Legacy of Vader - Preview Art Gallery

12 Images

Revisiting Kylo Ren's 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.

"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. It's a huge opportunity. Kylo is as emotionally complex as it gets."

Soule also reunited with artist Luke Ross, collaborating for a third time (after War of the Bounty Hunters and Dark Droids). "Luke's work improves with each project," Soule commented. "He perfectly captures 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 focuses on his internal conflict as he tries to escape his past.

"Poor Ben," Soule said. "We know he's still there, but at this point, 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! Kylo wants to move on, but the trauma is raw."

The series begins with Ben visiting Darth Vader's Mustafar fortress, attempting to confront his past and his complicated 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. That's his conflicted relationship with his grandfather."

The First Order's internal politics also play a significant role, with characters like General Hux and General Pryde. Kylo's efforts to consolidate power are central to the narrative.

"I'd be disappointed not to explore the First Order's internal struggles," Soule admitted. "Hux and Pryde are in the book. Kylo's journey is the focus, but his use of the First Order is part of the story."

Star Wars: Legacy of Vader aims to enrich our understanding of Kylo Ren/Ben Solo, adding depth to the Sequel Trilogy villain. While the ending is known, the comic will illuminate his choices in The Rise of Skywalker.

"I've been telling Star Wars stories for a decade," Soule stated. "I strive for each story to stand alone, while also fitting into the larger canon. This book is about Kylo's struggle for self-definition. It's filled with turmoil and pain. Some fans will see it through the lens of Ben's inner struggle, but it works even without that knowledge – he's searching for himself, like many young people. He's also a powerful dark side user. There's angst and drama, but plenty of action too."

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