Comic Review: Legacy of Vader #4 – A Naboo Homecoming!

Writer: Charles Soule
Artist: Stefano Raffaele
Colors: Nolan Woodard

Publisher summary:
KYLO REN EXPLORES ANAKIN AND PADMÉ'S PAST ON NABOO! KYLO and VANEÉ journey to the home planet of Kylo's grandmother, PADMÉ AMIDALA, to learn more of VADER'S dark secrets. Kylo must battle against STORG VERUNA and his raiders! And who will rule NABOO when all is said and done?

Marvel Comics

Why it matters: Kylo is continuing his journey of self-discovery, led by the sleazy attendant Vaneé. Naboo, the planet where Anakin and Padmé fall in love, plays a key role in the Legacy of Vader.

Key moments:

• Ruins on the Lake: After the fall of the Empire, Naboo has seen better days as many of its lake estates have fallen into disrepair.

• Love and Loss: As Kylo continues to trace the history of his grandfather, he learns of Anakin’s love for Padmé and how the threat of her death drove him to embrace the darkness.

• Kylo’s Escalation: Kylo has never shied away from violence, but this issue takes it up a notch as he grows tired of the people of Naboo.

Marvel Comics

The big picture: Another issue, another incredible entry into Kylo’s story. Yet again, we are presented with the Kylo who wants to “let the past die”, yet is plagued with its influence. Kylo cannot seem to escape the shadow of his family’s legacy. It’s also been very interesting seeing his interpretations of Vader versus the reality. One of my favorite small moments of the issue was Vaneé having his RotJ Emperor moment of asking Kylo to strike him down. As mentioned previously, even though Kylo is always intense, he seems to have brought a different level in this issue. We can’t wait to see where the story goes next.

Our rating: Incredible

What’s next: Kylo continues his engagement with Naboo in issue #5 dropping June 25, 2025.

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