The 2020 Star Wars The Black Series Darth Vader (The Empire Strikes Back) in the blue‑stripe window box is the definitive ESB Vader of the Phase III/IV era. This release uses the acclaimed 2017 ANH Vader sculpt with ESB‑specific adjustments, including chest‑box configuration, belt box spacing, and updated deco.

This is the standard retail window‑box version, not the 40th Anniversary cardback and not the later Galaxy Collection packaging. It represents Vader during the Cloud City duel and the pivotal “I am your father” sequence.

Technical Details & Sculpt

Overall Sculpt & Proportions

This Vader sculpt captures the ESB suit:

• tall, imposing silhouette
• gloss helmet with matte armor contrast
• ribbed bodysuit
• ESB‑specific chest box layout
• flowing soft‑goods cape and inner robe

Helmet & Armor

• asymmetrical ANH/ESB dome shape
• silver tusks and grill detailing
• chest box with ESB‑accurate button colors
• shoulder armor with subtle weathering

Body & Suit

• ribbed undersuit
• textured gloves
• belt boxes with ESB spacing
• layered cape drape

Articulation

Uses the Phase III premium articulation system:

• ball‑jointed head
• hinged neck base
• butterfly shoulders
• swivel‑hinge elbows
• swivel wrists
• torso ball joint
• ball‑jointed hips
• thigh swivels
• double‑jointed knees
• rocker ankles

Supports:

• two‑handed saber grips
• Cloud City duel poses
• commanding Imperial stances

Paint & Deco

• glossy helmet dome
• matte armor contrast
• crisp red saber blade
• accurate ESB chest‑box colors

Accessories & Equipment

Red Lightsaber

Removable Lightsaber Blade

Packaging (Window Box — Blue ESB Stripe)

• clear plastic window
• blue ESB accent stripe
• side portrait art
• standard retail distribution

Collector Notes

• Standard retail, not exclusive
• ESB‑specific deco and chest box
• Essential for Cloud City and OT villain displays
• Pairs naturally with Luke (Bespin) and Boba Fett

Display & Photography Notes

Best photographed with dramatic top lighting to emphasize the helmet gloss and armor contrast. Ideal for:

• Cloud City duel recreations
• “I am your father” displays
• ESB villain shelves