Darth Vader (Battle Damaged)
sw0180 · Star Wars
The Force Unleashed / Ultimate Collector Series · 2008 (Released in set 7672 Rogue Shadow)
Figure ID
sw0180
Theme
Star Wars
Year Released
2008 (Released in set 7672 Rogue Shadow)
Rarity
Rare. This minifigure was exclusive to a single set released during the 'The Force Unleashed' video game tie-in wave and has never been remade in this specific style.
Head
Light Bluish Gray with detailed battle damage printing. Left side shows Anakin’s pale face with scar and one eye; right side shows the interior circuitry and mechanics of the Vader life-support mask.
Torso
Black torso with unique 'damaged' printing. Features exposed wires (red/blue), a cracked chest plate control panel, and shredded suit detailing that carries over to the back. Left arm is Light Bluish Gray representing the mechanical prosthetic; right arm is Black.
Legs
Mismatched color scheme. Right leg is Black; left leg is Light Bluish Gray to represent the exposed cybernetic limb from the hip down.
Accessories
Includes a unique tattered/shredded black cloth cape. Usually paired with a standard red lightsaber (though missing in the image) and originally came with a removable Darth Vader helmet (also missing here).
Color Scheme
Primarily Black and Light Bluish Gray. This 'asymmetrical' look is intended to showcase the destruction of the suit following a major battle.
Printing Details
High-detail pad printing for its era. Includes distinct wire textures on the chest and mechanical optics on the face. Note the lack of pupil in the mechanical eye to simulate the lens/sensor.
Variants
None of this specific 2008 design. However, a modern version (sw1216) was released in 2022 featuring more updated printing techniques and skin tones.
Condition Notes
Common wear points include fraying on the tattered cape edges and silver ink rubbing off the chest control box. The Light Bluish Gray leg and arm are prone to yellowing if exposed to UV.
Estimated Value
Used (Complete): $50 - $75 USD; Used (Incomplete/Missing Helmet): $30 - $40 USD; New/Condition A+: $100+ USD.
Price (New)
Set 7672 Rogue Shadow originally retailed for $49.99 USD in 2008.
Compatible Sets
7672 Rogue Shadow (2008)
Character Background
Based on the character's appearance in 'Star Wars: The Force Unleashed' video game during his duel with the Secret Apprentice, Galen Marek (Starkiller).
Design Notes
One of the first 'mid-transformation' or 'damaged' Star Wars figures. It utilized mismatched limb colors years before dual-molding became standard.
Similar Minifigures
sw1216 Darth Vader (Battle Damaged - Obi-Wan Kenobi series version), sw0178 General Kota, sw0181 Darth Apprentice (Starkiller).
Collectibility
High. It is a fan-favorite variant of an iconic character and tied to a nostalgic era of Star Wars gaming. Values have remained stable or appreciated over the last decade.
History
Launched during the 'The Force Unleashed' multimedia project. It marked a experimental phase where LEGO produced figures specifically for M-rated (or T-rated) game content.
Interesting Facts
The 'exposed eye' design was highly praised by fans for capturing the emotion of the game's finale. This is one of the few Vader figures that looks 'human' and 'machine' simultaneously.
Display Suggestions
Best displayed in a duel scene against a Starkiller or Obi-Wan minifigure. Use a backlit display to highlight the translucent red lightsaber blade.
Modification Potential
The head is frequently used by customizers to create 'Unmasked Vader' MOCs. The tattered cape is also a popular swap for other Sith characters.
Overall Assessment
A standout figure of the late 2000s. Despite the missing helmet and weapon in this specific photo, the unique head, torso, and mismatched limbs make it a high-tier collector's item.