That one time Darth Vader wore white… and somehow looked fabulous

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When (and Why) Did Darth Vader Wear a White Suit?

Isn’t it intriguing to consider when and on the desert planet Tatooine did Darth Vader choose to abandon his famous black armor and take on the appearance of the deadliest stormtrooper in white? Yes, there is indeed a character known as White Darth Vader. This isn’t a rare action figure version or a dream sparked by excessive blue milk consumption.

Vader, with his distinctive silhouette, cape, breathy voice, and ominous black armor, is undoubtedly one of the most iconic characters in popular culture. However, for those who have delved into Star Wars comics, there may be a memory of him sporting a striking snow-white suit of armor instead. In my humble opinion, this alternative portrayal is nothing less than spectacular.

But the reason behind this look will blow your hyperdrive

The Setup: Star Wars Infinities – A galaxy of What ifs

This tale hails directly from the “Star Wars Infinities” series, akin to Marvel’s “What If…?” scenario. It delves into alterations of the Star Wars timeline, subtly modifying minor aspects that ultimately lead to drastic repercussions. Imagine the butterfly effect, but instead of weather patterns changing, it’s lightsaber battles and characters being frozen in carbonite causing the shift.

Rather than simply recounting the events of “Return of the Jedi,” this comic takes a fresh approach by starting with the initial act, focusing on Leia’s daring mission to free Han Solo from Jabba the Hutt’s clutches. And oh boy, things don’t exactly go as planned!

The Butterfly Effect: C-3PO’s Worst Day

In this new take, instead of Leia using a thermal detonator as a bluff during her confrontation with Boba Fett (which would typically be harmless due to its deactivation), the situation turns real due to an unfortunate accident – C-3PO gets destroyed and inadvertently triggers the detonator, causing chaos. Amidst the confusion, Boba Fett manages to steal Han Solo’s carbonite-frozen figure, making a quick escape.

While Luke remains stuck on Tatooine, attempting to locate Boba Fett rather than swiftly departing for Dagobah, the predicament arises that he unfortunately misses Yoda’s farewell at his deathbed.

In a nosy manner typical of him as a Sith Lord, Palpatine senses some turmoil and commands Darth Vader to inspect the remote planet of Dagobah. Unsurprisingly, Luke Skywalker also arrives at this location. In a dramatic revelation, the spirits of Obi-Wan Kenobi and Yoda disclose a shocking secret: “Lo and behold! Vader is your father, Leia is your sister. I hope you enjoy navigating that family reunion.

The Dominoes Keep Falling

In his typical headstrong manner, Luke Skywalker attempts to elude capture by Darth Vader, but ultimately fails and is taken prisoner. Prior to this event, however, he secretly creates a holographic message revealing their shared lineage to Princess Leia.

In a different rendition, Leia and Lando pursue Fett, free Han from freeze-dried state; however, unlike the temporary blindness depicted earlier, this version of Han Solo remains permanently blind. This persistent vision loss seems like the galaxy finally reaping the consequences of his reckless luck.

Concurrently, as the Rebel fleet readies itself for Endor, an unexpected turn of events unfolds – the Ewoks switch allegiance. For those familiar with Star Wars: Battlefront 2, the nocturnal battle against the seemingly harmless Ewoks serves as a testament to their immense ferocity when roused.

Vader’s Redemption…With a Twist

The battle transfers to the Emperor’s throne room where Vader and Luke engage in combat. However, when Luke discloses that Leia is also his sibling, it deeply unsettles him. Much like in “Return of the Jedi,” empathy triumphs. Luke decides against delivering the fatal blow, ultimately allowing Vader to break free from Palpatine’s control.

This time around, Darth Vader survives! Luke, Leia, and they all manage to escape on the Millennium Falcon, while Wedge Antilles takes charge of the attack on the Death Star. Despite his seemingly indestructible nature, Palpatine manages to slip away once more.

Enter: White Armor Vader

And here’s the mic-drop moment

Ernesto Ruscio/GettyImages

On the last page, Vader reveals his freshly minted armor: immaculate, white, and emblematic of a new beginning. No longer the dark-armored Imperial enforcer, but a reformed father standing alongside his sons. United, they promise to track down Palpatine and restore the galaxy.

Canon? Legends? Nope, Just Infinities

Before you hurry to revise your Wookieepedia pages, it’s important to note that this tale isn’t considered part of the official Star Wars storyline, or “canon.” It doesn’t belong to the Disney era or the previous Legends. Instead, it exists in a kind of gray area, similar to “Star Wars: Visions.” Although it has been officially published and showcases incredible creativity, it doesn’t affect or contribute to the continuity of the Star Wars universe.

Still, it leaves fans asking some amazing questions:

  • What if Vader survived?
  • What if he had trained Luke and Leia as Jedi?
  • What would a Skywalker-led Republic look like?

Truthfully, I really enjoy stories like this that are imaginative, daring, and just seem perfect for lively discussions among fans during late nights.

In my opinion, Lucasfilm ought to consider producing an animated anthology series in this manner. Each episode could present a “What if” scenario without any ties to established canon – similar to how Disney+ has previously handled Marvel stories. I’d love to see White Armor Vader on screen again, and I believe the fans (including myself) would relish it as eagerly as a rancor devours its prey.

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2025-08-21 17:23