Vader's Legacy: Unraveling Kylo Ren's Hidden 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 scope. Star Wars: The Battle of Jakku covers the final major conflict between the Rebellion and the Empire, while Star Wars: Jedi Knights explores the Jedi Order before The Phantom Menace. Most notably, Star Wars: Legacy of Vader delves deeply into Kylo Ren's character.

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

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, beyond what the films revealed.

"I've wanted to revisit Kylo Ren," Soule stated. "It's been over four years since The Rise of Kylo Ren, and I always believed there was more to his story. The movies only show a fraction of his journey; much is implied or unexplored."

He continued, "Setting this after Episode VIII allows me to explore a character undergoing immense change in a short time. His life is drastically altered, offering a significant opportunity. Kylo is incredibly emotionally complex, which is fascinating to write."

Soule also reunited with artist Luke Ross, collaborating on War of the Bounty Hunters and Dark Droids.

"I'll work with Luke whenever possible!" Soule exclaimed. "His work improves with each project, and this one is exceptional. He perfectly captures Kylo Ren's turmoil and unpredictable rage. Luke, and colorist Nolan Woodard, are doing amazing work."

Ben Solo After The Last Jedi

Legacy of Vader is set immediately after The Last Jedi. Ben failed to convert 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.

"Poor Ben," Soule commented. "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! Kylo wants to move on, but the trauma is raw."

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 explained. "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, featuring Hux and Pryde, will also play a significant role.

"I'd be disappointed not to explore the First Order's internal struggles," Soule said. "Hux and Pryde are present. Kylo's journey is central, but his influence on the First Order is part of the story."

Star Wars: Legacy of Vader aims to enhance our understanding of Kylo Ren/Ben Solo, providing insight into his choices in The Rise of Skywalker.

"I've been telling Star Wars stories for a decade," Soule said. "I ensure each story stands alone while connecting to the larger canon. This book shows 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 also works without that context – a young person's search for self. 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.