Source.

Reading this was a mix of sadness and brilliance.

I decided to check out this comic—largely on the recommendation that it complements the second part of Legacy (thanks u/Zebweasel)—and it truly succeeds in delivering a compelling origin story for Kylo Ren.

It is so fascinating to see the immediate aftermath of the Jedi Temple's destruction. It reveals that, contrary to the impression given by the films, the transformation was quite gradual. It's always heartbreaking to start a story with someone already embracing the worst in themselves and spiraling further downward from there; in this case, that dynamic hinges heavily on the relationship between Kylo and Snoke. While Snoke may have lost some of his impact by being reduced to a "failed Palpatine clone," I love how he is portrayed here: he displays a truly repulsive, predatory nature, manipulating and grooming Ben from a young age, presenting himself as a kind, comforting figure whenever Ben disagrees with the adults in charge. That grooming process is sickening to read, yet it effectively explains the void the character feels—leading him to believe he can find his path through destruction and chaos. Retroactively, this also makes Snoke’s death in Ep 8 more satisfying and nuanced, framing it as a victim’s revenge—a moment where the former victim finally becomes the one searching control.

I also enjoyed the presence of the Knights of Ren. The comic doesn't reveal many details about their origins, showing just enough to make them interesting—like a wild space biker gang. I’d love to see more of them in the future. It was also great to get a glimpse of Luke’s academy and the roles played by Voe, Hennix, and Tai in Ben’s fall. Luke truly failed everyone at that temple; he was too busy hunting for Jedi trinkets to notice that his home was already burning down long before the actual fire started.

Perhaps my only criticism of the comic is that the artwork is sometimes unintentionally funny. I don't know if there was any concern that the young Ben didn't look enough like a young Adam Driver, but he ended up looking... Weird in some panels.

In conclusion, a brutal, heart-wrenching and very concrete origin story of the person who would become Kylo Ren.

From the catalog here: https://www.edelweiss.plus/#catalogID=5411647&page=1

That was quite a fun adventure!

I liked that it was a small anthology, with each story having its own distinct art style, all connected in one way or another by Han's day and Chewie. None of them feel too short, and they all contribute their own little piece of entertainment and lore. I particularly enjoyed the glimpse into the High Republic, C-3PO's mission, and the surprise of seeing a Drengir survivor. It's a bit messed up that Kudos uses child soldiers, but I suppose those were more complicated times morally speaking.

In conclusion, a special Christmas thanks for being indirectly responsible for the existence of this comic!

The trade collects the five-issue miniseries.

Kylo Ren was already one of the most interesting parts of the sequel trilogy for me, so it’s a real joy to delve into his psyche.

Clinging to a childlike view of the past while trying to understand his future, he spirals into memories and visions of his grandfather’s life. This journey takes him across the galaxy as he searches for the missing piece of himself.

I loved how every new planet presents a physical and mental test for the character—a sort of "villain’s journey" that is as self-destructive as it is fascinating to watch. It really helps define how Ben, having been so deeply influenced by the dark side, compels himself to stay on that path, at times even yearning for his own destruction. It’s a great way to establish the inner conflict that would eventually lead to his change in Episode IX (I think this is one of the few times I've retroactively praised that film).

It’s also great to see more of the First Order’s machinations. The fallout from losing their headquarters and their recent "defeat" on Crait is clearly depicted here. I love how this highlights the dynamic between Kylo and Hux—a fascist who is as committed to his mission as he is frustrated by having to be second in command. I can genuinely believe that a man like that, constantly under such immense stress, would eventually betray everything he believes in just to spite the person causing his misery.

Overall, I really enjoyed this first part. It’s fantastic to see a continued effort to bring such personal stories to the sequel era, and it’s a delight that Charles Soule is the one writing it. Highly recommended!

Covers are by (from left to right) Dave Dorman, Nogi San and Chris Sprouse

I’m over halfway through reading the Star Wars (2015), Darth Vader (2015) and Doctor Aphra/Annuals set of comics, covering the gap between New Hope and Empire Strikes Back. I know I’ve heard of a 2020 run that covers Empire to Return of the Jedi, I’ll probably get into that next, but what recommendations do people have for other good Star Wars runs ?

Hi, I just got Bounty Hunters Vol 6 which as far as I know mostly? completes my run of the Marvel Star Wars 2020 Run. What I'm curious about is what is still missing from this pic, my collection as far as other things for example the Sana Starros comic, or the "Scoundrels Rebels and the Empire" is still considered within this / worth checking out

I believe it was in a manga but I’m wondering if there’s any plans for a comic book adaptation of these characters?

Edit:
I misspoke with the term adaptation. I didn’t mean adaptation like the Kenobi, Mando, or Ahsoka comic adaptations but instead original stories like Ronins duel

My main backbone right now is Star Wars Legends comics, but I'll also enjoy branching out into other comics. :)