"Star Wars: Legacy of Vader Explores Kylo Ren's Missing Year"

Marvel's Star Wars line is undergoing a significant transformation. Previously centered on the year between *The Empire Strikes Back* and *Return of the Jedi*, the publisher is now expanding its horizons with new titles that delve into different eras of the Star Wars universe. *Star Wars: The Battle of Jakku* explores the last stand of the Rebel Alliance against the faltering Empire. *Star Wars: Jedi Knights* illuminates the era of the Jedi Order before *The Phantom Menace*. Perhaps most excitingly, *Star Wars: Legacy of Vader* aims to deepen the narrative surrounding Adam Driver's character, Kylo Ren.

IGN had the opportunity to discuss *Legacy of Vader* with its writer, Charles Soule, who shared insights on how the series will add new dimensions to Ben Solo's story. Before diving into the details, take a moment to browse an exclusive preview of the series in the slideshow gallery below.

Star Wars: Legacy of Vader - Preview Art Gallery

12 ImagesReturning to the Story of Kylo Ren

Charles Soule, a key figure in Marvel's post-Empire Strikes Back era with his work on the flagship Star Wars series and crossovers like War of the Bounty Hunters and Dark Droids, is excited to revisit Kylo Ren. "I've wanted to get back to Kylo Ren for ages," Soule told IGN. "It's been over four years since The Rise of Kylo Ren, which I created with Will Sliney, and there's so much more to explore with Kylo. The films provide only a glimpse – much of Kylo's story is implied or left untold."

Soule believes setting Legacy of Vader immediately after The Last Jedi offers a unique chance to explore a character who has undergone immense change. "At this point, Kylo's life has changed drastically. It's a huge opportunity to write about a character with intense emotion," he explained.

Collaborating once again with artist Luke Ross, Soule is thrilled. "I'll work with Luke any chance I get!" he said. "His work has only improved, and he captures the turmoil and cold rage of Kylo Ren beautifully, alongside our colorist Nolan Woodard."

Ben Solo After The Last Jedi

Legacy of Vader is set in the immediate aftermath of Star Wars: The Last Jedi, a pivotal time for Ben Solo. He has just failed to turn Rey to the Dark Side, battled his uncle Luke Skywalker, and nearly killed his mother, Leia, after already killing his father, Han Solo. Now in control of the First Order, Ben is grappling with his past and his identity as Kylo Ren.

"Ben is struggling to suppress his true self," Soule said. "He's faced monumental events in a short time, and he wants to move forward, but the trauma is fresh and overwhelming."

The series begins with Ben visiting Darth Vader's fortress on Mustafar, seeking to kill his past while grappling with his connection to his grandfather, Anakin Skywalker. "Kylo is not honest with himself," Soule noted. "He makes grand pronouncements but is deeply conflicted, seeking guidance even as he tries to reject his past."

The internal politics of the First Order also play a significant role in Legacy of Vader. General Hux and officers like Allegiant General Pryde, who are plotting behind Kylo's back, will be explored. "The First Order's internal dynamics are crucial," Soule said. "Hux and Pryde are part of the story as Kylo tries to consolidate his power."

Ultimately, Star Wars: Legacy of Vader aims to enrich our understanding of Kylo Ren/Ben Solo, adding layers to the character central to the Sequel Trilogy. "I've been telling Star Wars stories for a decade," Soule reflected. "Each story stands on its own while connecting to the larger Star Wars narrative. This book explores Kylo Ren's struggle to define himself amidst turmoil and pain, a journey that resonates universally while staying true to the Star Wars universe."

Star Wars: Legacy of Vader #1 will be released on February 5, 2025.

For more on what's coming up in the Star Wars franchise, check out our breakdown of every Star Wars movie and series in development.