General description:
Let's face it; there are a lot of versions of Vader to choose from out there. But which one to choose? There are pure combat builds such as Jedi Hunter (from Universe) and Lord Vader (from Bounty Hunters), and leadership versions like Imperial Commander (from Alliance and Empire). Each one has a unique twist on everybody's favourite cyborg. This particular version manages to combine both an effective close combat fighter with the ability to back up your minion of choice at an amazingly low cost of only 50 points.
Uses:
If you have a lot of troopers and need some beef, this can prove a good choice. Another thing to consider is if you have a fairly fragile unit that could use that attack boost, such as the Heavy Stormtrooper or Snowtrooper with E-Web. Both of these have a good damage output but relatively low attack values and survivability compared with potential targets.
Strategies and game play:
In 100-builds, this particular Vader can easily be placed with 10 Stormtroopers, creating a sqaud that combines numbers with improved firepower. In larger builds go ahead and team Vader with Snowtroopers with E-Web, Heavy Stormtrooper, or in really large-scale games, an AT-ST or TIE Crawler. In the smaller games, send Vader ahead of the troopers, both to give them some needed cover and get troublesome targets into melee. Use his Force points carefully; he doesn't have Force Renewal. A good idea is to use Grip either two or three times, keeping the other point(s) in reserve for a critical Block or Deflect. That way you can get rid of enemy scrubs or finish off what the troopers began. The real trick with the CE is to either use it on really cheap followers (i.e. Stormtroopers) or in make-or-break situations. Definitely use it when your first roll is a 1.
Combos with other miniatures:
The Snowtrooper with E-Web really benefits from this Vader. You trade a "spray and pray" for a shot at frying some high-level Rebel Scum. And since it is only 18 points, you still have plenty of room to work with, especially in high point games. For real nastiness, throw in Grand Admiral Thrawn and/or Mas Amedda.
Ways to counteract it:
Kill the scrubs with Vader early. If you can, bait them out of the 6-square range (if applicable). A good idea would be to use a Jedi with Lightsaber Deflect to draw Vader out for a duel. Remember, a miss on the rerolled attack means a defeated shooter, so put high Defense units out in front, tempting your opponent into rerolls.
Strengths/Pros:
A high attack value coupled with double attack gives a respectable shot in close combat situations. Also the auto-damage Force Grip and have both Deflect and block gives some serious defensive options. In the longer games, these powers combined with 140 HP and Def 22 can make sure Vader is the last man standing. And the reroll abiility gives a nice edge. It is worth noting that this CE applies to any mini without a CE.
It is further worth noting that this mini has Sealed Booster written all over it, even opposed to other characters in Champions.
Weaknesses/Cons:
A lack of Force Renewal and the downgrade to Double Attack (as opposed to the usual Triple and/or Lightsaber Sweep) can be a problem against opposing high-value Jedi, especially if you're up against Republic sqauds. The CE also has a risky side; a miss on the reroll means the attacker is defeated. This means that is always at least a 1 in 20 chance of it backfiring.
Artwork and aesthetics:
It's really just another Vader pose, but it does have flair. "Go ahead, try to hit me!"
Overall rating:
In the overall scheme, easily a 7.75. In a Sealed environment, an 8.5 or 9.
Miniature Trading
