Comic Review: Legacy of Vader #3 – Kylo’s First Lesson

Writer: Charles Soule
Artist: Luke Ross
Colors: Nolan Woodard

Publisher summary:
KYLO REN — PRISONER ON TATOOINE! KYLO REN has been imprisoned by the ruthless GARDULLA THE HUTT! The young tyrant must survive the harsh conditions of his grandfather DARTH VADER'S homeworld! A who is the mysterious FORCE USER in Gardulla's employ?

Marvel Comics

Why it matters: In the days after The Last Jedi, Kylo Ren is being tested by the galaxy as he tries to live up to the legacy of his grandfather, Darth Vader.

Key moments:

• The Breaking of Kylo: Kylo is put through the ringer physically. Gardulla is determined to break him in this issue.

• Vader’s Lesson: The series is focused on the legacy of Vader, and Kylo appears to learn his first lesson from his grandfather under the Hutt’s torture.

• Hux’s Rivalry: It is no secret that General Hux and Kylo Ren are rivals in the Sequel Trilogy. However, we get to see that relationship develop as Hux accepts his Supreme Leader’s orders at a crucial juncture.

Marvel Comics

The big picture: While being held captive by Gardulla, Kylo finally has a breakthrough. He turns to Vader for help, but, ironically enough, Vader tells him that his power came from being alone. The visuals of his captivity are incredibly visceral, and I felt there was possibly some inspiration from the iconic creation of Doctor Manhattan. Kylo’s escape is followed by a really compelling odyssey across the Dune Sea as he faces a canyon krayt dragon and fashions its skin as a sort of cloak...is there anything more intimidating? And finally, in the end, both Kylo and the reader are left excited for more as we turn to Vader’s history on Naboo.

Our rating: Incredible

What’s next: Kylo turns to his grandmother’s homeworld of Naboo as Legacy of Vader #4 drops on May 21, 2025.

For a deeper discussion of this issue, be sure to check out this week’s episode of The Cosmic Force podcast!