Star Wars: Darth Vader and the Lost Command #1 (2011) marks the beginning of an intense and haunting mini-series from Dark Horse Comics, exploring the psyche of Darth Vader during the early days of the Galactic Empire. Set between the events of Revenge of the Sith and A New Hope, this first issue dives deep into Vader’s personal torment, his ruthless mission objectives, and the fragile trust the Emperor places in his newly christened apprentice.

Written by Haden Blackman and illustrated by Rick Leonardi, this issue opens with Darth Vader being dispatched to locate a missing Imperial expedition led by Moff Tarkin’s son, Captain Garoche Tarkin, in the mysterious and uncharted Ghost Nebula. The Empire's command is clear: recover the unit or eliminate any threat. However, what begins as a military assignment quickly begins to take on deeper emotional significance, as Vader is haunted by visions of Padmé Amidala and memories of who he once was—Anakin Skywalker.

Haden Blackman does an excellent job of portraying Vader as a conflicted figure—unforgiving and brutal on the outside, but still burdened by the emotional residue of his past. These glimpses into his inner conflict elevate the story beyond a simple mission narrative and add depth to one of the Star Wars universe’s most enigmatic characters. The writing explores how Vader’s grief, rage, and guilt are manipulated by Emperor Palpatine, reinforcing the Sith ideology that power must be born from pain.

Artist Rick Leonardi brings this brooding tale to life with atmospheric, expressive panels that skilfully capture the ominous tone of the story. His depiction of the Ghost Nebula and the eerie landscapes that Vader traverses is appropriately surreal and disorienting, reflecting the internal chaos that simmers beneath Vader’s stoic armour. Isaac Stewart’s colours complement the artwork with stark contrasts and shadowy tones that amplify the gothic, psychological undercurrents of the series.

This issue is essential reading for fans eager to explore Darth Vader’s early development, as it peels back the mask to reveal a Sith Lord not fully at peace with the darkness he's embraced. It’s not just a rescue mission—it’s a journey into Vader’s fractured identity and the dangerous path of unchecked power.

Now available from a reliable UK-based online comic book seller, this issue is ideal for collectors of the Dark Horse Star Wars era. Fast shipping & secure packaging is guaranteed. Each comic is bagged and boarded with an acid-free bag and board and sent to you in a book wrap/mailer for premium protection and preservation.

Star Wars: Darth Vader and the Lost Command #1 (2011) is a masterfully written and visually rich introduction to a series that explores loss, loyalty, and the slow, crushing descent into darkness. A must-have for any serious Star Wars comic reader or collector.