All Star Wars fans know that Darth Vader is one of the most well-known and complex characters in cinematic history. With his infamous black helmet, he only ever speaks in a deep, heavy voice that could “chill you to the bone.” And it’s this mystery behind his motives and plans that makes him all the more fascinating to many fans.
It’s no surprise that there are so many fanfiction stories about Darth Vader. The fact that he was once Anakin Skywalker, only adds to the mystery of who this character really is.
Some fans have even come up with various theories about what truly makes him tick. From being an actual Sith Lord, to loving his son until the very end, it seems as if almost anything can be written about Darth Vader.
What is Darth Vader Fanfiction?
Darth Vader fanfiction stories are basically fan-written stories. The stories will have Darth Vader as a central character and include other characters from the same franchise (Star Wars) but are not canon to the original story’s universe.
With Darth Vader in particular, there is no limit to what fans can write about him – or rather Anakin Skywalker – because his character went through so many changes throughout the movies.
In fact, there is so much Star Wars fanfiction out there, that you could never read it all!
Why Read Darth Vader Fanfiction?
A lot of people enjoy reading Darth Vader fanfiction because they want to know more about him. It’s also a great way to explore different possibilities that the original story either ignored or left up for interpretation
In the Star Wars saga, Anakin Skywalker transitioned from a powerful young Jedi into the Sith Lord – Darth Vader. The transition from Light to Dark and then back again means that stories can be written to suit everybody’s interpretation of the character.
The best Darth Vader fanfiction will really depend on each individual’s own opinion. However, it makes sense that these stories would need to include some or all of his traits – power, ruthlessness, mysteriousness – in order to remain true to the Star Wars universe.
Like Father, Like Son: Dark Luke Fanfiction
What to Expect from Darth Vader Fanfics?
One of the most common themes found in Darth Vader fanfiction is his love for his son, Luke Skywalker. This transition from hate to love provides a good transition period for many stories and gives fans something more to think about after they’ve seen the original Star Wars movies (Episodes IV-VI).
A lot of stories within this fandom also focus on how he feels about his transformation into Darth Vader. Is it too late for him to turn back? Can he redeem himself through his son?
There are also many alternate timelines and realities that explore what-ifs – these could include Anakin staying a Jedi and Luke joining Vader as a Sith.
Personally, I like to see Vader as the ultimate baddy at his villainous worst which is usually in the time that passes between episodes 3 & 4. This is the time when Vader is consumed by the dark side, and you see how powerful he really is.
10 Best Darth Vader Fanfictions
In order to save time and avoid too many spoilers, here’s a list of what I consider to be the 10 Best Darth Vader fanfiction stories:
1. Vader’s Quest Chronicles
Author: FicWriter04
Chapters: 18
Words: 62,527
Story: Darth Vader is on a quest. A quest for his son. But this isn’t the dark Sith Lord we all know and love.
This Vader is an alcoholic trying to make amends for his past mistakes. Along the way, he’ll have to deal with an increasingly senile Palpatine, as well as a bevy of other Star Wars characters. Will he find his son? Or will he succumb to the Dark Side once and for all?
This book is full of light-hearted fun, with plenty of action and adventure to keep you entertained. If you’re a fan of Darth Vader or Star Wars in general, then you won’t want to miss out on this one!
2. Vulnerable: A Darth Vader Fanfiction
Author: TheLastUnicorn123
Chapters: 43
Words: 83,028
Story: Ladies, have you ever fallen for the dark side? Been entranced by those piercing eyes or that bass voice? Fantasized about being swept away by Lord Vader himself? Well, this is your chance! Step into the world of Vulnerable: A Darth Vader Fanfiction.
When Padme’s soul is reincarnated, Lord Vader sees a glimpse of Light and must choose between the Darkness or Hope.
With the Empire doubting his loyalty and coveting his love interest, will they last, or will they be torn apart?
3. Vader’s Shadow
Author: Starith
Chapters: 19
Words: 90,721
Story: Experience the Star Wars universe in a whole new way with Vader’s Shadow, a fanfic novel about Luke Skywalker and Darth Vader.
When Luke comes across an Imperial inspector who claims his father is alive, he’s determined to find out the truth — even if it means coming face-to-face with Darth Vader himself.
With layers of intrigue and suspense, this novel is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat!
4. Photosynthesis
Author: Lyra Sekai
Chapters: 21
Words: 59,236
Story: Photosynthesis is the Darth Vader fanfic you’ve been waiting for.
In this well-written and engaging redemption arc, Vader does the unexpected when gifted the daughter of a certain Jedi. With a twist that will keep you guessing,
Photosynthesis is sure to please Star Wars fans everywhere.
5. One Missed Strike: The Complete Original Trilogy
Author: Davin Sunrider
Chapters: 38
Words: 224,568
Story: One Missed Strike is a trilogy of novels that reimagines the story of Darth Vader and Luke Skywalker.
If the Death Star had never been built, what would have happened? In this alternate universe, Vader is the Emperor and Luke joins the Rebellion to fight against his father’s tyranny.
You must use all your strength, courage, and Jedi training to be able to put this story down once you have started it.
6. Threading the Stars
Author: x Ugly Duckling x
Chapters: 32
Words: 108,731
Story: Take a journey to the dark side with this Darth Vader fanfic.
Five years after turning to the dark side, Darth Vader discovers the impossible: his father. Can he unravel this mystery, and more importantly, can it redeem him, or will he continue on the dark path and overthrow the emperor? Complicating matters is Padme, who is still very much alive – as are the two children at her side.
Gripping, inventive, and masterfully crafted, this story is not to be missed.
7. Fruits of Malice
Author: TheRealThing
Chapters: 63
Words: 150,467
Story: No one ever said that Darth Vader’s life was easy.
In an alternate universe, Anakin Skywalker is taken from his mother at a young age and raised by the Sith as Darth Vader. He was brought-up with no love and compassion, but this all changed when Darth Vader meets with one Senator of Naboo.
This fanfiction fluff is full of adventure, romance, and passion. Will Darth Vader be able to find happiness? Or will the fruits of malice consume him? Read this book to find out!
8. The Untold Stories of Darth Vader
Author: EBsayian
Chapters: 21
Words: 17,082
Story: Do you love Darth Vader? Do you wish you could know more about him? This is your chance.
These stories are the missing link between Darth Vader’s past and his future. They explore what he did during the time between Episodes 3 and 4.
These stories are sure to thrill fans of the dark side!
9. The Road Less Traveled
Author: Julie the Tall Terror
Chapters: 4
Words: 27,806
Story: Take a journey to the dark side with this Darth Vader fanfic.
When interdimensional travel goes wrong, Darth Vader ends up in the galaxy of Jedi Master Anakin Skywalker. Now he wants Anakin’s kids and Anakin must chase down his daughter before she falls into the hands of the Sith.
With thrilling action and powerful Force scenes, The Road Less Traveled is a must-read for any Star Wars fan.
10. Convergence
Author: Skywalker05
Chapters: 21
Words: 21,405
Story: Step into a world of darkness, mystery, and intrigue with Convergence: the Darth Vader fanfic.
Someone other than the Emperor or Vader turns Luke to the dark side. Vader wants to rule the galaxy with his son, but Luke’s will not betray his new master.
Who will prevail in this battle for control of the galaxy? Read Convergence to find out!
Conclusion
If you’re a Star Wars fan, then the stories we’ve shared with you may just be what you need to get your Darth Vader fix. Whether it’s taking a journey into his past or imagining that he never turned to the dark side and became evil, these tales will surely satisfy any craving for more of this iconic villain.
So, this is our list of Best Darth Vader Fanfiction Stories… if you have come across any worthy of sharing, please let us know so we can enjoy it and add it to the list!
Did You Know?
“David Prowse and James Earl Jones never even met when filming the original trilogy!”
“Darth Vader’s helmet design was inspired by traditional Japanese Samurai headwear!”
“Darth Vader is the most popular character in the Star Wars universe and sells much more merchandise than any other!”
“In Italian, “Vader” sounds like the word for the toilet bowl, so it was changed to “Lord Fener”. In France, he is named “Dark Vador” as it is easier for the French to pronounce!”
FAQ’s
Is Darth Vader Anakin?
Darth Vader was born Anakin Skywalker and is the father of Luke Skywalker and Leia Organa. The movie Revenge of the Sith shows Anakin’s transition to the dark side and becoming Darth Vader.
Is Darth Vader dead in The Mandalorian?
The Mandalorian is set about 5 years after the death of Darth Vader in Return of the Jedi.
Who killed Darth Vader?
The last straw was when Luke removed Darth Vader’s helmet and broke the seal on his life-maintaining suit although he was already fatally wounded following a taxing duel with his son as well as absorbing Darth Sidious’ Force lightning.
