Viz Media is set to release Star Wars: Path of the Lightsaber, a new manga by Spanish artist Kenny Ruiz, in Fall 2025. This original story will be set within the Star Wars sequel trilogy era, bridging the gap between The Last Jedi and The Rise of Skywalker.
A New Star Wars Story
Path of the Lightsaber introduces readers to Nioka, a young tinkerer who dreams of becoming a Jedi like Luke Skywalker. Nioka’s life takes an unexpected turn when she stumbles upon a lightsaber aboard The Random Luck, an abandoned ship from the High Republic era. This discovery sets her on a path to uncover the secrets of the Jedi and the power of the Force, all while evading those who seek the lightsaber for their own purposes.
Story Details
The manga is set during a turbulent time in the Star Wars galaxy, with the First Order’s presence looming large. Nioka’s journey will likely involve coming to terms with Luke Skywalker’s death and grappling with the legacy of the Jedi Order. The synopsis hints at connections to the High Republic era, suggesting that the lightsaber Nioka finds may hold secrets from that period.
Characters
- Nioka: A young tinkerer with aspirations of becoming a Jedi. Her discovery of a lightsaber sets her on a journey of self-discovery and adventure.
- The story also features a mysterious armored character wielding a sword and a villainous figure in an intimidating mask, hinting at the challenges Nioka will face.
Kenny Ruiz: The Artist Behind Path of the Lightsaber
Kenny Ruiz is a Spanish artist known for his work on various manga and comics. He previously collaborated with Tezuka Productions on the Team Phoenix crossover manga, which featured characters from Osamu Tezuka’s works. His experience in crafting dynamic and engaging visuals will likely bring the Star Wars galaxy to life in a unique way.
Ruiz’s Previous Work
Ruiz’s work on Team Phoenix demonstrates his ability to handle complex narratives and diverse characters. His art style blends elements of manga and Western comics, making him a suitable choice for a Star Wars manga aimed at a global audience.
Connections to the Star Wars Universe
Path of the Lightsaber is poised to enrich the Star Wars canon by exploring the sequel era and incorporating elements from the High Republic.
Sequel Trilogy Era
The manga’s placement between The Last Jedi and The Rise of Skywalker allows it to explore the state of the galaxy during this period. The First Order’s rise to power and the Resistance’s struggle for survival will likely form the backdrop for Nioka’s personal journey.
High Republic Integration
The inclusion of a High Republic-era ship adds another layer to the story. The High Republic was a golden age for the Jedi Order, and the lightsaber Nioka discovers may be a relic from that time. This connection could provide insights into the history of the Jedi and the Force.
Influence of Japanese Media on Star Wars
Star Wars has always had strong ties to Japanese media. George Lucas drew inspiration from Akira Kurosawa’s The Hidden Fortress when creating the original Star Wars film. The samurai ethos also influenced the concept of the Jedi Knights. The Path of the Lightsaber manga continues this tradition by bringing a Japanese storytelling sensibility to the Star Wars universe.
Viz Media’s Expanding Star Wars Collection
Viz Media has previously published Star Wars manga, including adaptations of The Legends of Luke Skywalker and Guardians of the Whills, as well as original stories like The High Republic: Edge of Balance. Path of the Lightsaber adds to their growing collection of Star Wars manga.
Other Fall 2025 Releases from Viz Media
In addition to Star Wars: Path of the Lightsaber, Viz Media has announced several other titles for release in Fall 2025, including:
- Kingdom, Vol. 1 (manga) by Yasuhisa Hara: A historical war manga set during China’s Warring States period.
- Assassin’s Creed: Forgotten Temple (webtoon): A sequel to the Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag video game.
- Castle in the Sky: The Official Cookbook: A cookbook inspired by Studio Ghibli’s Castle in the Sky.
- Disney Twisted-Wonderland: Book of Heartslabyul manga box set: The first manga based on Twisted-Wonderland.
Anticipation Builds
Star Wars fans are eagerly awaiting more information about Path of the Lightsaber. Details are expected to be revealed at Star Wars Celebration Japan in April. The manga promises to be a unique addition to the Star Wars universe, blending action, adventure, and themes of hope and perseverance.
