Super Battle Droid - Pearl Dark Gray
sw0230 · Star Wars
Star Wars: The Clone Wars · 2009. This figure debuted during the peak of The Clone Wars animated series sets, specifically in the 8018 Armored Assault Tank (AAT).
Figure ID
sw0230
Theme
Star Wars
Year Released
2009. This figure debuted during the peak of The Clone Wars animated series sets, specifically in the 8018 Armored Assault Tank (AAT).
Rarity
Uncommon. While Super Battle Droids have appeared in various forms, the Pearl Dark Gray variant with the specialized blaster arm is specific to a certain era of production (2009-2015).
Head
Integrated Head/Torso Mold. Unlike standard minifigures, the head is a small rounded sensor dome molded directly into the top of the torso piece with a single red photoreceptor dot (sometimes missed in play wear).
Torso
Specialized B2-series Droid Torso. Features mechanical chest plating, a central indented line, and ball-joint sockets for the arms. One arm included with this figure typically features an integrated blaster nozzle.
Legs
B2 Droid Legs. These consist of a single molded piece for both legs that attaches to the torso via a thin pin. The feet are oversized 'clump' style to fit onto LEGO studs.
Accessories
Integrated Blaster Arm. The left arm (from the droid's perspective) is a unique mold with a dual-barreled blaster tip. No external weapons or capes are standard for this figure.
Color Scheme
Pearl Dark Gray. This is a metallic-finish plastic that gives the droid its signature 'gunmetal' appearance, consistent with its look in the Star Wars films and TV shows.
Printing Details
Minimal. This figure relies almost entirely on its intricate physical mold for detail rather than surface printing. The only print is the tiny red power/eye dot.
Variants
There are three main variants: sw0092 (Blue-ish Pearl Gray), sw0230 (the Pearl Dark Gray shown here), and sw1069 (which features slightly updated mold details/sturdiness).
Condition Notes
Extremely fragile at the 'clip' points. The most common issue is the thin plastic clips on the arms or the torso clips snapping. Stress marks on the leg pin are also frequent.
Estimated Value
Used: $5.00 - $8.00 USD. New/Mint: $10.00 - $15.00 USD. Value is heavily dictated by the integrity of the clips.
Price (New)
Originally included in sets ranging from $25.00 (7748 Corporate Alliance Tank Droid) to $120.00 (Venator-Class Republic Attack Cruiser).
Compatible Sets
8018 Armored Assault Tank (AAT), 7748 Corporate Alliance Tank Droid, 8012 Super Battle Droid (Technic scale, related), and 75022 Mandalorian Speeder.
Character Background
The B2 Super Battle Droid was the heavy infantry of the CIS Droid Army. Unlike the B1, it was heavily armored and did not require a central command signal to function effectively.
Design Notes
LEGO used a non-standard body type for this figure. It is taller and wider than a standard minifigure, utilizing three main custom molds: Torso/Head, Arms, and Legs.
Similar Minifigures
B1 Battle Droid (sw0001c), Commando Droid (sw0359), and the newer Super Battle Droid (sw1322) released in 2024 with a reinforced mold.
Collectibility
High for army builders. Collectors often seek these in groups of 10 to 50 to create Separatist dioramas. However, the brittle nature of the old plastic slightly hampers long-term investment.
History
First introduced in blue-gray in 2002 for Episode II sets, the mold was updated to this Pearl Dark Gray version in 2009 to align with the more gritty 'The Clone Wars' aesthetic.
Interesting Facts
The 'blaster arm' mold used here was specifically designed so the droid doesn't need to hold a hand-held blaster, making it one of the few figures where the weapon is part of the body.
Display Suggestions
Best displayed in 'ranks' behind a General Grievous or Count Dooku minifigure. Due to their top-heavy nature, ensure they are clicked securely onto a baseplate.
Modification Potential
Low. The connections are very specific. Some fans use metallic silver paint pens to add 'battle damage' weathering to the flat gray plastic.
Overall Assessment
A classic piece of LEGO Star Wars history. While it has durability issues, its silhouette is iconic and essential for any prequel-era collector. Quality Rating: 7/10.