Marvel's Star Wars comics are entering a new phase. Previously, the publisher focused on the period 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 into other eras. Star Wars: The Battle of Jakku covers the final major battle 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 deep into Kylo Ren's character.

IGN interviewed Legacy of Vader writer Charles Soule. Below is an exclusive preview, followed by insights into the series.

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: "I've wanted to revisit Kylo Ren for a long time," he says. "It's been over four years since The Rise of Kylo Ren, and I always felt there was more to explore. The films only show a fraction of his story; much is implied or unaddressed."

He continues, "This story, set after Episode VIII, allows me to explore a character undergoing immense change in a short time. It's a chance to portray a character with powerful emotions – and Kylo is as emotionally charged as they come."

Soule also reunited with artist Luke Ross: "I'll work with Luke whenever possible! His work has improved with each project, and this one is exceptional. He's perfectly captured Kylo Ren's turmoil and unpredictable rage."

Ben Solo After The Last Jedi

Legacy of Vader is set immediately after The Last Jedi. Ben failed to turn Rey, battled Luke, nearly killed his mother, and controls the First Order. The series explores his turmoil as he tries to overcome his past.

"Poor Ben," Soule says. "We know he's still in there, but he's been pushed into a dark corner of Kylo Ren's psyche. He's faced Luke, killed Snoke and his father, almost killed his mother, connected with Rey, and now leads the First Order – all in weeks! He wants to move on, but the trauma is raw."

The series begins with Ben visiting Vader's Mustafar fortress, attempting to conquer his past by confronting his grandfather's legacy. Soule hints at Ben's conflicted feelings about Anakin Skywalker.

"Kylo isn't honest with himself," Soule explains. "He makes grand pronouncements, posturing, trying to convince himself of his power. But he's lost. While claiming to kill his past, he seeks guidance. That's how he feels about his grandfather – conflicted."

The First Order's internal politics are also central. Hux's dislike for Kylo and Pryde's plotting are explored, showing Kylo's struggle to maintain control.

"I wouldn't want to write a story in this period without the First Order's internal conflicts," Soule states. "Hux and Pryde are in the book. Kylo's journey is the focus, but his use of the First Order is part of the narrative."

Star Wars: Legacy of Vader aims to deepen our understanding of Kylo Ren/Ben Solo, adding layers to the Sequel Trilogy villain. While the ending is known, the book will illuminate Ben Solo's choices in The Rise of Skywalker.

"I've been telling Star Wars stories for a decade," Soule says. "I try to make each story stand alone, while fitting into the larger canon. This book is about Kylo Ren's struggle for self-definition. It's a story of turmoil and pain. Some fans will see it through the lens of Ben's inner struggle. But even without that context, it's a story about self-discovery, albeit one involving a dark space wizard with a lightsaber."

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