Darth Nihilus
sw0252 · Star Wars
Expanded Universe / Knights of the Old Republic II · 2005 (Initially via magnets) / 2011 (as sw0252)
Figure ID
sw0252
Theme
Star Wars
Year Released
2005 (Initially via magnets) / 2011 (as sw0252)
Rarity
Very Rare. This figure was predominantly available in a character magnet set (852715) which featured figures glued to bases, and later in a non-glued promotional capacity that made loose, authentic versions highly sought after.
Head
White head with unique Darth Nihilus mask printing: black eye sockets, red vertical stripes, and a skeletal mouth design. Included with a black hood piece.
Torso
Black torso with Dark Blueish Gray Jedi/Sith robe printing. Includes a V-neck design and a pleated sash belt. The back is also printed with robe contours.
Legs
Plain black legs with a black hip piece. No printing on the front or sides.
Accessories
Black fabric cape (spongey or traditional cloth depending on production year) and a black hood. Traditionally paired with a red-bladed lightsaber (not pictured).
Color Scheme
Monochromatic Sith palette: Primary black with white head accents, red facial markings, and dark gray robe highlights.
Printing Details
Pad-printed. The head features high-contrast white, red, and black. The torso uses subtle dark gray lines to simulate fabric folding. Standard detail level for the mid-2000s era.
Variants
The primary variant is the version glued to a magnet base. Collectors distinguish between 'glued' and 'unglued' versions, with unglued figures commanding a massive premium.
Condition Notes
The white printing on the head is prone to rub-off or yellowing. The black hood can cause friction marks on the head piece. The cape is subject to fraying at the edges.
Estimated Value
New/Unglued: $150 - $220. Used/Good: $120 - $160. Glued/Magnet versions: $40 - $70. Values fluctuate based on the authenticity of the torso (often swapped for generic sith torsos).
Price (New)
Originally sold in the Star Wars 852715 Magnet Set for $14.99 USD in 2009. The figure was never released in a standard retail building set.
Compatible Sets
852715 Star Wars Magnet Set (2009).
Character Background
Darth Nihilus is a 'Lord of Hunger' from the video game Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic II - The Sith Lords. He is a wound in the Force who consumes the life energy of entire planets.
Design Notes
The torso is actually the same print used for Darth Maul in that era, highlighting LEGO's early reliance on existing assets for Expanded Universe characters.
Similar Minifigures
Darth Malak (available in 2024), Darth Revan (sw0547), and Darth Maul (sw0003).
Collectibility
Extremely high. He remains a 'Grail' figure for Star Wars fans due to the popularity of the KOTOR games and his unique aesthetic.
History
Initially released when LEGO was testing the limits of the Star Wars license with 'Legends' content. His release via magnets made him difficult to acquire for play, leading to his status as a display piece.
Interesting Facts
Because many of these figures were glued to magnets, some collectors use chemicals to 'de-glue' them, though this can damage the plastic and lower value compared to true 'loose' versions.
Display Suggestions
Display alongside Darth Revan and Darth Malak. Use a black or dark red baseplate to accentuate the Sith aesthetic. UV protection is vital to prevent the white mask from yellowing.
Modification Potential
Often used in MOCs of the 'Sith Triumvirate'. Some fans swap the torso for modern custom-printed robes that more accurately reflect his flowing 'void-like' appearance in the game.
Overall Assessment
A top-tier collectible. While the torso is a recycled Darth Maul print, the exclusive head and hood combination makes this one of the most recognizable and desirable Sith figures ever produced.