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

Marvel's Star Wars line is undergoing a significant transformation. Previously, the publisher concentrated on the one-year interval between *The Empire Strikes Back* and *Return of the Jedi* through titles such as *Star Wars*, *Darth Vader*, and *Doctor Aphra*. With these series now concluded, Marvel is venturing into new territories within the Star Wars timeline. *Star Wars: The Battle of Jakku* delves into the climactic battle between the Rebel Alliance and the faltering Empire. The forthcoming *Star Wars: Jedi Knights* illuminates the Jedi Order's history before *The Phantom Menace*. However, the most captivating new addition might be *Star Wars: Legacy of Vader*, a series poised to expand on Adam Driver's portrayal of Kylo Ren.

IGN had the opportunity to interview *Legacy of Vader* writer Charles Soule, who shared insights on how the series adds depth to the mysterious Ben Solo. Before diving into the interview, take a moment to view 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 played a pivotal role in exploring the post-*Empire Strikes Back* era with his work on the flagship *Star Wars* series and significant crossovers like *War of the Bounty Hunters* and *Dark Droids*. Curious about his decision to leap forward in time, Soule explained his desire to revisit Kylo Ren, a character he had previously explored in *The Rise of Kylo Ren* in 2020.

"I’ve been eager to return to Kylo Ren for years," Soule told IGN. "It's astonishing that over four years have passed since *The Rise of Kylo Ren*, which chronicled Ben Solo's transformation into Kylo Ren before *Episode VII*. There's so much more to his story that the films only hint at or leave unexplored."

Soule further elaborated, "Setting this series right after *Episode VIII* allows me to explore a character who has experienced extreme change in a short time. His life has been turned upside down, presenting a massive opportunity to delve into a highly emotional character."

A major draw for Soule in working on *Legacy of Vader* was the chance to collaborate again with Luke Ross, a renowned Star Wars artist with whom he has worked on multiple projects.

"I'll work with Luke whenever I can!" Soule exclaimed. "We've completed three significant Star Wars projects together—*War of the Bounty Hunters*, *Dark Droids*, and now this story. His work has only improved with each project, and in this series, he captures the tumultuous and unpredictable cold rage of Kylo Ren perfectly. Our colorist, Nolan Woodard, is also doing exceptional work."

Art by Derrick Chew. (Image Credit: Marvel/Lucasfilm)

Ben Solo After The Last Jedi

*Legacy of Vader* is set during a crucial period in Ben Solo's life, immediately following *Star Wars: The Last Jedi*. At this point, Ben has failed to turn Rey to the Dark Side, confronted his uncle Luke Skywalker in battle, nearly killed his mother after having killed his father, and assumed control of the galaxy's most powerful military force. The series focuses on the profound turmoil Kylo Ren faces as he tries to move forward and permanently sever ties with his past.

"Poor Ben," Soule remarked. "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. In a very short time, he's confronted one mentor, killed another, lost his father, nearly killed his mother, connected deeply with Rey, and taken control of the galaxy's most powerful military organization. All this in what seems like weeks! Kylo wants to move forward, but the trauma is still fresh and hard to overcome."

The series begins with Ben traveling to Mustafar to visit Darth Vader's former fortress. He seeks to eradicate his past but must confront the ghost of his grandfather, Anakin Skywalker, who inspired him. Soule suggests that Ben's feelings about Anakin are as conflicted as anything else in his life.

"One key aspect of Kylo is his self-deception," Soule said. "He makes grand statements and postures as if he's untouchable and all-powerful, but he's really quite lost. While he claims to want to kill his past, he's also seeking guidance. That sums up his conflicted feelings about his grandfather."

The internal politics of the First Order will also play a significant role in *Legacy of Vader*. As seen in the Sequel Trilogy, General Hux, played by Domhnall Gleeson, is not a fan of Kylo Ren, and officers like Allegiant General Pryde, portrayed by Richard E. Grant, are plotting behind Kylo's back to usher in Palpatine's Final Order.

"It would be a missed opportunity not to explore the First Order's internal politics," Soule said. "Hux and Pryde are both in the book. Kylo's journey is central, but how he manages and develops the First Order is a crucial part of the story."

Ultimately, *Star Wars: Legacy of Vader* aims to enhance our understanding of Kylo Ren/Ben Solo, adding new layers to the villain who was central to the Sequel Trilogy. While we know how his story ends, the series will provide deeper insight into Ben Solo's character and his motivations in *The Rise of Skywalker*.

"I've been telling Star Wars stories for a decade now," Soule reflected. "I aim to make each one enjoyable on its own while adding elements that resonate with fans who understand the broader Star Wars narrative. *Legacy of Vader* is about Kylo Ren's struggle to define himself amidst constant turmoil and pain. Some fans might see this as a reflection of his internal conflict between Kylo and Ben, but it also stands alone as a story of a young man searching for identity. Of course, he's also a dark space wizard wielding a deadly lightsaber, so there's plenty of action and drama for everyone."

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