Darth Vader (Battle Damaged)
sw0253 · Star Wars
The Force Unleashed / Ultimate Collector Series · 2010. Debuted in Set 7672 'Rogue Shadow', which was based on 'The Force Unleashed' video game. This figure represented a significant shift toward high-detail expanded universe characters.
Figure ID
sw0253
Theme
Star Wars
Year Released
2010. Debuted in Set 7672 'Rogue Shadow', which was based on 'The Force Unleashed' video game. This figure represented a significant shift toward high-detail expanded universe characters.
Rarity
Rare. It was exclusive to a single set (7672) which had a limited production window and catered to the niche 'The Force Unleashed' gamer demographic.
Head
Light Flesh, dual-sided. Front features heavy scarring, Sith-yellow eyes, and a stern expression. Back features more extensive scarring and robotic cooling vents. It lacks a hair piece as it was meant to be under the iconic helmet.
Torso
Black with extensive battle-damage printing. It shows exposed flesh (chest area) and mechanical Sith life-support components beneath torn clothing. Features one black arm and one light flesh arm to signify a lost sleeve.
Legs
Black with printed battle-damage and machinery. Features mechanical detailing on the knees and torn fabric patterns. The hips are black with silver/grey mechanical belt detail.
Accessories
Red lightsaber with a Pearl Gold hilt (unique to this version instead of the standard chrome/silver) and a two-part Darth Vader helmet that can be removed to reveal the damaged face.
Color Scheme
Primary Black and Light Flesh with accents of Dark Stone Grey, Pearl Gold (hilt), and Trans-Red (blade). The tone is dark and grimy to reflect the 'battle-damaged' state.
Printing Details
Highly detailed for its era (2010). Features 360-degree printing on the head, intricate chest detail, and specialized leg printing. The alignment of the mechanical parts vs. the torn fabric is a highlight.
Variants
None of this exact damaged mold; however, this specific figure only exists in sw0253. Other battle-damaged versions exist but use different head prints or torso damage patterns.
Condition Notes
Common wear points are torso cracks under the arms and fading on the light flesh printing of the chest. The pearl gold hilt is prone to losing its shine if handled frequently.
Estimated Value
Used: $50 - $75; New/Mint: $100+. The value is heavily dependent on the presence of the original two-piece helmet and the specific gold hilt.
Price (New)
The set it came in (7672) originally retailed for $49.99 in 2010. The minifigure now costs more than the original MSRP of the entire set.
Compatible Sets
7672 Rogue Shadow (2010).
Character Background
This version of Anakin Skywalker/Darth Vader is taken from the finale of 'The Force Unleashed' video game, where his apprentice, Galen Marek (Starkiller), defeats him and destroys his mask and armor.
Design Notes
This was one of the first figures to use 'Light Flesh' skin tones for a character previously depicted in 'White' (2005-2008). The gold hilt is a rare design choice meant to mimic the game's lighting.
Similar Minifigures
sw0180 Darth Vader (White Head), sw0636 Darth Vader (Rebels), and sw1273 Darth Vader (Battle Damaged - 2023 version).
Collectibility
High. It is a 'grail' figure for fans of the Force Unleashed game and collectors of 'Unique' Darth Vader variants. It has seen consistent price appreciation since 2015.
History
Followed the 2005 release of the 'classic' Vader. This was the first time LEGO attempted a gore-accurate representation of Vader's injuries in minifigure form.
Interesting Facts
Despite being battle-damaged, the figure is rarely shown with a cape because in the game's final boss fight, his cape is burnt off. The gold hilt was a point of controversy among purists.
Display Suggestions
Best displayed next to Galactic Empire figures or a Starkiller (Galen Marek) minifigure in a duel vignette. Use UV-protected cases to prevent the light flesh printing from yellowing.
Modification Potential
Commonly used for MOCs depicting the 'Mustafar' aftermath or the 'Obi-Wan Kenobi' series finale. Parts are often swapped with newer Vader capes for a 'damaged but still fighting' look.
Overall Assessment
A masterpiece of late-2000s LEGO design. Its uniqueness, exclusive set status, and connection to a beloved game make it a high-tier collector's item. Rating: 9/10.