Star Wars: Darth Vader #18 – Lucasfilm 50th Anniversary Variant (2021) is a highly collectible edition that blends compelling narrative with a striking commemorative cover celebrating five decades of Lucasfilm’s storytelling legacy. As part of the ongoing Darth Vader series from Marvel Comics, this issue sits at a critical turning point in the aftermath of War of the Bounty Hunters, deepening the intrigue and highlighting Vader’s merciless pursuit of dominance within the fractured ranks of the Empire.

Scripted by Greg Pak with artwork by Leonard Kirk, this instalment continues to explore the fallout from Crimson Dawn’s resurgence, with Vader now setting his sights on unmasking corruption and weakness within the Imperial command. As internal power plays unfold, Vader becomes more calculating, using fear, precision, and brute force to realign those who dared to doubt his authority.

The Lucasfilm 50th Anniversary Variant cover adds tremendous visual value to this release. Designed as part of a special commemorative series, the variant pays homage to the cinematic history of Star Wars, featuring a bold and stylised rendition of Darth Vader that stands out in any collection. This edition is a perfect blend of artistic tribute and key storyline development, ideal for fans who value both substance and collectible aesthetics.

Inside, the issue is a showcase of Vader’s brutal efficiency and the cold logic of the Sith. Leonard Kirk’s detailed pencils and Alex Sinclair’s moody colouring create a tense, oppressive atmosphere that mirrors the emotional weight of the plot. With each panel, the reader is pulled deeper into Vader’s perspective—a man no longer merely executing the Emperor’s will, but redefining power on his own terms.

The story is as much a psychological battle as it is a physical one, focusing on Vader’s effort to destroy dissent from within and confront the deeper implications of loyalty and control. It's a key chapter for fans interested in the inner workings of the Empire, as well as those following the broader arc of Vader’s evolution between Episodes V and VI.

Available now from a well-established UK-based online comic book retailer, this variant is shipped with fast shipping & secure packaging. Your comic will be bagged and boarded with an acid-free bag and board and sent to you in a book wrap/mailer to guarantee it arrives in pristine condition—ready to be added to any serious Star Wars collection.

Star Wars: Darth Vader #18 – Lucasfilm 50th Anniversary Variant (2021) isn’t just a milestone in story—it’s a celebratory piece of Star Wars history, merging a legacy of cinematic excellence with the dark brilliance of one of its most iconic figures.