Super Battle Droid - Pearl Dark Gray
sw0230 · Star Wars
Star Wars The Clone Wars / Prequel Trilogy · Released in 2009. Debut in set 8018 Armored Assault Tank (AAT). This version was introduced during the peak of The Clone Wars (2008) animated series line, replacing the Sand Blue metallic versions from 2002.
Figure ID
sw0230
Theme
Star Wars
Year Released
Released in 2009. Debut in set 8018 Armored Assault Tank (AAT). This version was introduced during the peak of The Clone Wars (2008) animated series line, replacing the Sand Blue metallic versions from 2002.
Rarity
Uncommon. While it appeared in several popular sets between 2009 and 2015, it is no longer in production and has become highly sought after for army building.
Head
Integrated mold. The head is part of the torso piece, featuring a slight circular indentation for the droid eye sensors and a sloped, hunched profile characteristic of the B2 model.
Torso
Pearl Dark Gray mechanical torso with integrated head. The chest is broad and reinforced, with horizontal ribbing on the abdomen and mechanical details on the back. It features a specific arm-connection point that allows for the 'rocket' or blaster arm styles.
Legs
Mechanical legs in Pearl Dark Gray. The legs are a single molded piece that clips onto the torso, featuring thin shins and wider mechanical hips. They lack individual articulation but provide stability.
Accessories
Typically none included in the box, though sometimes equipped with standard blasters or translucent red 'rocket' studs in certain sets. This specific model relies on its molded-on blaster arm detailing.
Color Scheme
Solid Pearl Dark Gray. This replaced the previous Metallic Blue/Sand Blue versions to better reflect the gritty silver/gunmetal appearance in the films and animated series.
Printing Details
Generally no printing. The detail is achieved entirely through the high-quality 3D mold, which includes mechanical grooves, armor plating, and sensor nodes.
Variants
The main variants include the earlier sw0056 (Sand Blue/Metallic Blue) and versions with one rounded arm and one blaster arm (sw0230b). This version has the standard straight indent arms.
Condition Notes
The Pearl Dark Gray plastic is prone to 'brittle-brown' syndrome-style cracking at the arm clips and the ankle clips over time. Check for stress marks (white lines) on the clips. The metallic sheen can also show scratches easily.
Estimated Value
Used: $7.00 - $12.00; New: $15.00 - $20.00. Value has increased significantly in recent years as collectors aim to rebuild Separatist armies.
Price (New)
Varies by set. Set 8018 retail price was $49.99 (included 2 SBDs). Set 75043 retail price was $89.99 (included 2 SBDs).
Compatible Sets
8018 AAT, 75043 AT-AP, 75022 Mandalorian Speeder, 75037 Battle on Saleucami, and 7868 Mace Windu's Jedi Starfighter.
Character Background
The B2 Super Battle Droid is a heavy infantry unit used by the Confederacy of Independent Systems. Unlike the B1, they are bulkier, more armored, and have built-in wrist blasters. They were first introduced in Star Wars: Episode II - Attack of the Clones.
Design Notes
An iconic mold that deviates from standard minifigure anatomy to capture the droid's unique silhouette. The use of Pearl Dark Gray provides a more realistic metal look than flat gray plastic.
Similar Minifigures
sw0056 (Original Metallic Blue SBD), sw1069 (Rocket Arm SBD), and the standard tan B1 Battle Droid (sw0001c).
Collectibility
High. Despite not being a 'rare' exclusive, the SBD is a primary army builder. Since LEGO has not produced এই figure in several years, the secondary market demand is consistently upward.
History
First introduced in 2002 in Sand Blue, the mold was updated/re-colored to Pearl Dark Gray in 2009 to match 'The Clone Wars' branding. It remained the standard until the figure was effectively retired from regular sets in the mid-2010s.
Interesting Facts
The arms on this figure are technically 'upside down' compared to B1 droids to facilitate the look of the wrist blasters. It is one of the few figures with no rotating head.
Display Suggestions
Ideal for large-scale MOCs of the Battle of Geonosis or Umbara. Display in ranks of 5-10 behind a tactical droid or General Grievous.
Modification Potential
Great for custom battle damage (silver paint weathering). Some builders replace the arm with a modified plate to fit flame-thrower pieces.
Overall Assessment
A 9/10 essential for Star Wars collectors. It perfectly captures the menacing look of the B2 droid. Its only flaw is the fragility of the clips on the torso and legs under heavy play.