Kylo Ren's Lost Year Explored in Star Wars: Legacy of Vader

Marvel's Star Wars comic line is undergoing a significant transformation. Previously centered around the year between "The Empire Strikes Back" and "Return of the Jedi," with titles like "Star Wars," "Darth Vader," and "Doctor Aphra," Marvel is now expanding into new eras of the Star Wars timeline. "Star Wars: The Battle of Jakku" delves into the final confrontation between the Rebel Alliance and the fading Empire. The upcoming "Star Wars: Jedi Knights" explores the Jedi Order's past before "The Phantom Menace." Most excitingly, "Star Wars: Legacy of Vader" promises to deepen our understanding of Adam Driver's character, Kylo Ren.

IGN recently interviewed Charles Soule, the writer behind "Legacy of Vader," to uncover how the series enriches the narrative of Ben Solo. Before diving into the interview, take a look at an exclusive preview of the series in the slideshow gallery below.

Star Wars: Legacy of Vader - Preview Art Gallery

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Returning to the Story of Kylo Ren

Charles Soule, who previously crafted Marvel's exploration of the post-"Empire Strikes Back" era with the flagship "Star Wars" series and major crossovers like "War of the Bounty Hunters" and "Dark Droids," is now turning his attention to Kylo Ren. After delving into this character's origin in "The Rise of Kylo Ren" in 2020, Soule expresses a keen interest in revisiting Ben Solo.

"I’ve wanted to get back to Kylo Ren for ages," Soule shares with IGN. "It’s amazing to me that it’s been over four years since 'The Rise of Kylo Ren,' which chronicled Ben Solo’s transformation into Kylo Ren. Set before 'Episode VII,' there's still much more to explore with Kylo. Much like Darth Vader, the films offer only glimpses – much of Kylo’s story is implied or left unaddressed."

Soule continues, "Setting this book directly after 'Episode VIII' allows me to explore a character who’s undergone extreme change in a short time – his life has transformed dramatically. It’s a huge opportunity. Writing characters with deep emotion is key, and at this point, Kylo is as emotional as it gets."

The appeal of "Legacy of Vader" for Soule also lies in his collaboration with Luke Ross, a celebrated Star Wars artist with whom he has worked on multiple projects.

"I’ll work with Luke any chance I get!" Soule enthuses. "We’ve done three major projects in the Star Wars universe – 'War of the Bounty Hunters,' 'Dark Droids,' and now this story. His work has elevated with each project, and this one captures the turmoil and cold rage of Kylo Ren perfectly. Luke, along with our colorist Nolan Woodard, delivers exceptional work here."

Ben Solo After The Last Jedi

"Legacy of Vader" is set immediately after "Star Wars: The Last Jedi," a pivotal moment for Ben Solo. Having failed to turn Rey to the Dark Side, faced his uncle in battle for the last time, nearly killed his mother as he did his father, and gained control of the galaxy's most powerful military force, Ben is in turmoil as he tries to move forward and sever ties with his past.

"Poor Ben. We know he’s still in there somewhere, as seen in 'The Last Jedi' and 'The Rise of Skywalker,' but at this moment, he’s buried deep within Kylo Ren’s psyche," Soule explains. "In a brief period, Kylo has confronted Luke Skywalker, killed Snoke, killed his father, nearly killed his mother, met Rey – with whom he shares a profound connection – and taken command of the galaxy's most formidable military organization. All this within weeks! Kylo wants to move forward, but the trauma and intensity are still raw – not easy to overcome."

The series begins with Ben traveling to Mustafar, visiting the fortress of his grandfather, Darth Vader. In his quest to kill the past, Ben seeks guidance from the ghost of the man who inspired him. Soule notes that Ben is as conflicted about his connection to Anakin Skywalker as he is about everything else in his life.

"One of the key things to understand about Kylo is that he’s not particularly honest with himself," Soule says. "He’s big on grand pronouncements and posturing, trying to convince himself he feels a certain way – like he’s untouchable and all-powerful. In reality, he’s lost. While he tells himself he wants to kill his past, part of him seeks guidance. That sums up his feelings about his grandfather – he’s conflicted."

"Legacy of Vader" also delves into the inner workings of the First Order. The Sequel Trilogy highlighted the tension between Kylo Ren and General Hux, played by Domhnall Gleeson, and the secretive plotting of officers like Richard E. Grant's Allegiant General Pryde, who are laying the groundwork for Palpatine's Final Order. The politics of the First Order will be a crucial element as Kylo Ren consolidates his power.

"I would be disappointed if I didn’t explore the First Order and its political dynamics in a series set during this period," Soule says. "Hux and Pryde are both present. Kylo’s journey is the focus, but how he uses and develops the First Order is integral to the story."

Ultimately, "Star Wars: Legacy of Vader" aims to deepen our understanding of Kylo Ren/Ben Solo, adding new layers to the Sequel Trilogy's central villain. Although we know how his story ends, the series will offer insights into his choices in "The Rise of Skywalker."

"I’ve been telling Star Wars stories for a decade," Soule reflects. "I strive to ensure each story stands on its own while also contributing to the larger Star Wars canon. This book explores Kylo Ren’s struggle to define himself, filled with turmoil and pain. Some fans believe he's not truly Kylo – that part of him remains Ben. The story can be appreciated from that angle, but it also works for readers unfamiliar with Kylo, showcasing his search for identity, a theme relatable to many. Of course, he's also a dark space wizard with a laser sword, ready to use it lethally. We balance angst and drama with plenty of action. I think fans will love it."

"Star Wars: Legacy of Vader #1" is set to release on February 5, 2025.