Darth Nihilus
sw0252 · Star Wars
Knights of the Old Republic / Expanded Universe · 2005 (Set 10188) / 2007 (Note: This is a custom/bootleg hybrid based on the character)
Figure ID
sw0252
Theme
Star Wars
Year Released
2005 (Set 10188) / 2007 (Note: This is a custom/bootleg hybrid based on the character)
Rarity
Ultra-rare/Custom. The official Darth Nihilus appeared briefly in limited circulation, but the pictured figure is a custom/modified version using non-LEGO printing styles.
Head
White head with black skull-like mask printing, sunken eye sockets, and two vertical red stripes across the top. This design is specific to the Sith Lord Darth Nihilus.
Torso
Black torso with light gray/white line printing representing Sith robes and a sash/belt. Features black arms and light bluish gray hands.
Legs
Plain black legs without printing. The hips are black as well.
Accessories
Includes a black fabric cape and a black Sith-style hood. Traditionally, this character would carry a red-bladed lightsaber.
Color Scheme
Dominant black with accents of light gray, white, and red on the face mask. Gray hands provide a slight contrast to the otherwise dark palette.
Printing Details
The printing on the head appears to be custom pad printing or a high-quality decal, as evidenced by the alignment and sheen. Torso printing uses fine-line detail to mimic fabric folds.
Variants
There is a rare official version (often confused with custom) and many high-end custom versions produced by companies like Christo or Citizen Brick. This specific version appears to be a third-party custom.
Condition Notes
The head shows slight surface wear. The cape edges exhibit minor fraying typical of older fabric pieces. Torso shows minor light scratches on the gloss.
Estimated Value
$50 - $150 USD depending on the custom maker. If it were a certified LEGO prototype or rare limited release, value could exceed $500.
Price (New)
N/A; largely sold through custom minifigure retailers or as specialized high-value additions to fan-made sets.
Compatible Sets
None officially. Frequently used in MOC (My Own Creation) builds of the Ravager or scenes from Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic II: The Sith Lords.
Character Background
Darth Nihilus, the Lord of Hunger, is a wound in the Force who consumed entire planets to sate his void-like craving. He is a primary antagonist in the video game KOTOR II.
Design Notes
The mask design is highly iconic, following the look of the 'Ghost' mask from the game. The use of red stripes is a key character identifier.
Similar Minifigures
Darth Malak, Darth Revan (sw0547), Darth Malgus (sw0413), and the Sith Acolyte (sw0387).
Collectibility
High. Anything related to the Old Republic era is highly sought after by Star Wars completionists and 'Expanded Universe' fans.
History
LEGO officially produced a Darth Revan but has notably missed Darth Nihilus in retail sets, leading to a massive market for high-quality customs like the one pictured.
Interesting Facts
The character's mask is actually a skull from his home world, and it is the only thing that maintains his physical form, which is otherwise just a spirit bound to robes.
Display Suggestions
Best displayed inside a UV-protected acrylic case alongside other Sith Lords or on a custom 'Triumvirate' stand with Darth Traya and Darth Sion.
Modification Potential
The figure is already a custom, but adding a specialized 'tattered' cape or a unique translucent red lightsaber blade would enhance the 'Force Ghost' aesthetic.
Overall Assessment
This is a high-quality representation of a fan-favorite character that LEGO has never officially released in a standard set. Its value lies in its niche appeal and character accuracy.