Marvel's Star Wars comic book line is undergoing a significant shift. 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. Following the conclusion of these titles, Marvel is expanding into other eras. Star Wars: The Battle of Jakku depicts the final major conflict between the Rebel Alliance and the remnants of the Empire. 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 recently 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, a key figure in Marvel's post-Empire Strikes Back era, penned the main Star Wars series and oversaw crossovers like War of the Bounty Hunters and Dark Droids. His decision to jump decades ahead stems from a desire to revisit Kylo Ren, a character he previously explored in 2020.

Soule stated, "I've wanted to return to Kylo Ren for a long time." He explained that The Rise of Kylo Ren miniseries, created with Will Sliney, only scratched the surface of Ben Solo's transformation. He felt there was much more to tell, noting that the films only partially revealed Kylo's story. Setting the new comic after Episode VIII allows him to explore a character undergoing immense change in a short time.

Soule also highlighted his reunion with artist Luke Ross, with whom he collaborated on War of the Bounty Hunters and Dark Droids. He praised Ross's ability to capture Kylo Ren's turmoil and rage.

Ben Solo After The Last Jedi

Legacy of Vader is set immediately after The Last Jedi. Ben failed to convert Rey to the dark side, battled Luke, nearly killed his mother, and seized control of the First Order. The series explores his internal conflict as he grapples with his past.

Soule described Ben as "shoved down into some dark corner of Kylo Ren’s psyche." He emphasizes the immense pressure Ben faced and his desire to move forward, despite the lingering trauma.

The series begins with Ben visiting Darth Vader's fortress on Mustafar, attempting to confront his past and his complex feelings towards his grandfather, Anakin Skywalker. Soule hints at Ben's internal conflict regarding his connection to Anakin. He notes Ben's tendency towards self-deception, portraying him as lost despite his outward displays of power.

The story will also delve into the First Order's internal politics, featuring characters like General Hux and General Pryde. Soule stated that the First Order's internal conflicts are integral to the narrative.

Star Wars: Legacy of Vader aims to deepen our understanding of Kylo Ren/Ben Solo, providing context for his actions in The Rise of Skywalker. While the outcome is known, the comic will explore his motivations and inner struggles.

Soule concluded by saying the comic balances action with the emotional turmoil of Kylo Ren's journey, making it accessible to both longtime fans and newcomers.

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

For more on upcoming Star Wars projects, see our overview of all Star Wars movies and series in development.