It’s still unclear what the future holds for the Star Wars comic book series in the wake of the ongoing “Battle of Jakku” event, but the recently concluded monthly magazine has published a series of Star Wars comics from the last few decades. It was one of the best in comics. With a strong roster of writers and artists, fans of the universe’s iconic characters have a wealth of captivating stories, bold character exploration, and dynamic artwork that continues to expand the Star Wars mythology. It was done. Greg Pak’s performance as Darth Vader was one of the best in the line, and this final trade (titled Phantom) satisfactorily concludes his multi-year contract.
Collects Darth Vader #48-50 and The Phantom Menace 25th Anniversary One-Shot, detailing the climax of Darth Vader’s quest for power as he faces the consequences of an alliance with the Divided Empire. Ultimately, the impending challenge to Emperor Palpatine influences his actions across these issues. Meanwhile, Luke Skywalker faces a critical test that forces him to decide whether to follow his father’s path to the dark side. The interconnected destinies of Sabe, Warba, Sly Moore, and other key characters converge, forcing each to choose their allegiance. These final issues add a 25th anniversary homage to The Phantom Menace, weaving together Anakin’s early adventures with familiar echoes of Star Wars to conclude the long-running series.
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Greg Pak has done a great job with this Darth Vader series, developing the character and giving him a new energy over these 50 issues. While the series isn’t without its flaws, I’ve always admired Puck’s ability to center the story around Vader’s redemption in Return of the Jedi. Story-wise, this was a smart choice, allowing the towering villain to be more introspective than other versions. Raffaele Ienco’s artwork was excellent, with strong action layouts and expressive characters. Issue #50 featured a number of artists, and while I don’t normally like this approach to single issues, it worked well enough as a series send-off.
Many of the variant covers are reprinted at the back of the book, but only a few are featured full-page. This is common for these TPBs, but it would have been nice to have a complete duplicate included in the final version.
Greg Pak’s Vader looks great in an oversized hardcover like Alyssa Wong’s Doctor Aphra, so I hope Marvel gives this recent Star Wars book the omnibus treatment someday. But until that time comes, this final Darth Vader paperback volume is well worth the price of admission and provides a satisfying bookend.
“Star Wars: Darth Vader by Greg Pak Vol. 10: Phantom Review”
Star Wars: Darth Vader by Greg Pak Vol. 10: Phantom
Despite some minor flaws, Puck’s focus on Vader’s redemptive arc and the thoughtful interactions of the supporting characters add meaningful layers to this iconic villain’s journey. Raffaele Ienko’s artwork, in particular, always brought the galaxy to life with dynamic action and emotional depth. Although the lack of a full-page reproduction of the variant cover is a missed opportunity, this final exchange is a satisfying conclusion to a memorable run.
Completing Greg Pak’s epic run against Darth Vader, this trade brings the series to a satisfying conclusion.
A good read for Vader fans looking for deeper insight into the dark heart of the Sith.
It would have been nice if the final version had included a complete recreation of the variation.
