The Darth Vader TVC Master Guide: All 10 Vintage Collection Figures

In the "Galaxy Era" of 2026, Darth Vader remains the most collected character in the 3.75-inch scale. With exactly 10 unique single-carded (or major pack-in) releases in the modern Vintage Collection, the Dark Lord’s evolution is a roadmap of Hasbro’s engineering.

Before you start hunting, browse our latest Star Wars Vintage Collection stock or check our master Star Wars Figures List.

The Early Years (The "Analog" Era)

1. VC08 – Darth Vader (Empire/Jedi Cardbacks)

The "Original" of the modern line. This figure launched with the 2010 TVC revival.

• The Gimmick: It famously features two cardback variants (Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi).

• The Rare Find: The "Empire Foil" variant is a legendary piece in 2026, often fetching triple the price of the standard card.

• Tech: Basic paint apps and a somewhat bulky soft-goods cape.

2. VC13 – Darth Vader (Revenge of the Sith)

Technically Anakin Skywalker in the moments after his fall.

• Key Detail: This figure features the "Sith Eyes" and pre-suit Jedi robes.

• Value: Highly sought after for prequel-era "Mustafar" dioramas.

3. VC93 – Darth Vader (A New Hope)

A taller, thinner sculpt designed to capture his 1977 silhouette.

• The Flaw: While the sculpt is great, the helmet lenses are grey rather than the film-accurate reddish-pink.

• Accessories: Includes a non-removable blade lightsaber and soft-goods robes.

4. VC115 – Darth Vader (Return of the Jedi)

The "Experimental" Vader. This 2012 release was the first attempt at the "Emperor's Wrath" look.

• Unique Feature: It features a translucent purple-tinted helmet where you can see a skull-sculpt underneath.

• Accessories: Includes blue Force Lightning clip-ons.

The Bridge Era (Introduction of PhotoReal)

5. VC178 – Darth Vader (Rogue One)

Widely considered the "Best Classic Vader" for years. It captures the menacing, clean look from the Rogue One hallway scene.

• Tech: This was one of the first Vaders to benefit from cleaner factory paint and a better-scaled cloth cape that doesn't "poof" at the neck.

The Modern Masterpieces (The "Galaxy Era")

6. VC241 – Darth Vader (The Dark Times)

Released for the Obi-Wan Kenobi series, this is arguably the best 3.75-inch Vader ever sculpted.

• Engineering: Features ball-jointed wrists and rocker ankles for the most dynamic lightsaber poses possible.

• Likeness: The helmet sculpt is 100% film-accurate to the "pre-ANH" look.

7. VC280 – Darth Vader (Death Star II)

The definitive Return of the Jedi anniversary figure.

• The Reveal: Features a three-piece removable helmet (collar, mask, and dome) revealing a highly detailed Anakin Skywalker (Sebastian Shaw) likeness.

• 2026 Status: A must-have for the "I have to save him" dioramas.

8. VC291 – Darth Vader (Duel’s End)

Found in the high-end 2-pack with Obi-Wan Kenobi.

• The Detail: This figure features a cracked helmet showing Anakin’s eye and scorched face underneath.

• Tech: Features premium PhotoReal application on the exposed skin.

The New 2026 Releases

9. VC334 – Darth Vader (TIE Advanced Pilot)

Packaged with the 2025/2026 TIE Advanced Ship.

• Specialization: This figure is "Ship-Optimized." The soft goods are tailored so he can actually sit in the cockpit—a rare feat for Vader figures.

• Cardback: Features a striking magenta "Pill" color, paying homage to the original 1978 Kenner TIE Pilot card.

10. VC385 – Darth Vader (Emperor’s Wrath)

The newest 2026 release and the ultimate upgrade to the old VC115.

• New Tech: Features a severed mechanical hand swappable forearm.

• The Look: A high-end translucent sculpt that reacts to light, simulating the Emperor's lightning.

Technical Checklist: Every Darth Vader TVC Figure

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