Star Wars: Darth Vader and the Lost Command #5 (2011) delivers a gripping and emotionally charged conclusion to one of the most psychologically complex Darth Vader stories told within the Dark Horse Comics era. This final issue of the five-part mini-series ties together themes of power, identity, and the tragic consequences of loyalty, as Vader is forced to make a decisive and brutal choice that further cements his place as the Emperor’s enforcer—and buries the last remnants of Anakin Skywalker.

Written by Haden Blackman and illustrated by Rick Leonardi, the narrative reaches its climax as Vader confronts Captain Garoche Tarkin, whose vision of a new, more compassionate form of imperial order is now exposed as a direct threat to Palpatine’s absolute control. Tarkin, the son of one of the Empire's most powerful figures, offers an alternative: one rooted in loyalty, not fear. But for Vader, whose own path to power was built on betrayal and personal loss, such idealism is not only naïve—it’s dangerous.

In this issue, the lines between duty and destiny are obliterated. Vader's internal conflict is brought to the forefront, and his haunting visions of Padmé Amidala reach their tragic peak. These ghostly memories, once a sign of his emotional vulnerability, become tools of manipulation, drawing him deeper into darkness. The Emperor’s unseen hand is always present, influencing Vader's every move—whether through shadowed command or psychological conditioning.

Blackman’s writing delivers a deeply affecting portrait of a man becoming more machine than human. The final moments of the issue are stark and chilling, reminding readers that Darth Vader is not simply a villain, but a cautionary figure consumed by grief, fear, and control. His decision at the end of this chapter is not just strategic—it is the emotional and symbolic death of Anakin Skywalker.

Rick Leonardi’s artwork continues to complement the story’s heavy themes. His depiction of the Ghost Nebula’s surreal landscapes reflects the instability of the characters, while the final panels are visually arresting in their raw intensity. Isaac Stewart’s colour palette leans into harsh contrasts—blood-red skies, blackened shadows, and cold steel—all underscoring the irreversible nature of Vader’s transformation.

This final issue is a masterclass in storytelling that goes far beyond the standard galactic conflict. It explores how ideology, loss, and fear can reshape a person entirely. For readers who want to understand the tragic complexity of Darth Vader, this mini-series—and especially its final chapter—is essential reading.

Available now from a leading UK-based online comic book seller, this concluding issue is ideal for collectors of significant Star Wars narratives. Fast shipping & secure packaging ensures your comic arrives in pristine condition. Each copy is bagged and boarded with an acid-free bag and board and sent to you in a book wrap/mailer for full protection.

Star Wars: Darth Vader and the Lost Command #5 (2011) is not just a finale—it is a profound exploration of what it means to surrender one’s soul in the pursuit of order. A dark, unforgettable addition to the legacy of one of cinema’s most iconic characters.