Starkiller, originally known as Galen Marek, is a powerful Force-sensitive character in the Star Wars universe, specifically the Star Wars: The Force Unleashed video game series. Raised as the secret apprentice of Darth Vader, Starkiller was trained in the dark side of the Force from a young age. His backstory is steeped in tragedy, as Vader killed his Jedi father, Kento Marek, and took him as a child to mold into a deadly Sith assassin. Starkiller became one of Vader’s most formidable agents, carrying out dangerous missions to eliminate Jedi survivors of Order 66.
Despite his deep connection to the dark side, Starkiller’s journey is one of internal conflict and redemption. Initially, he is completely loyal to Vader, believing he is being trained to help overthrow Emperor Palpatine and rule the galaxy alongside his master. However, Vader ultimately betrays him, revealing that he was never truly meant to be an apprentice but merely a tool to further Vader’s ambitions. Left for dead, Starkiller is later revived and manipulated into a new mission: gathering rebels to challenge the Empire, supposedly as part of Vader’s plan.
As he embarks on this mission, Starkiller begins to develop his own identity beyond being a Sith warrior. He forms meaningful connections with key figures in the budding Rebel Alliance, including Bail Organa, Princess Leia, and Jedi General Rahm Kota. His relationship with his pilot and love interest, Juno Eclipse, further solidifies his transformation. Over time, he starts questioning his purpose and the morality of his actions, shifting away from the Sith’s brutal teachings and toward a more selfless path.
Starkiller’s power is immense, surpassing that of most Jedi and Sith. His abilities in the Force are exaggerated in The Force Unleashed games, making him one of the most overpowered Force users in Star Wars Legends. He can pull Star Destroyers from the sky, unleash devastating Force lightning, and wield his lightsabers with deadly precision. His raw potential rivals even that of Anakin Skywalker, making him a key figure in the Empire’s machinations—until he turns against them.
In the climactic events of The Force Unleashed, which is considered one of the best Star Wars video games ever, Starkiller leads an assault on the Death Star to rescue the Rebel leaders and confront Vader and Emperor Palpatine. Depending on the player’s choices, he either sacrifices himself to save the Rebel Alliance, cementing his place as a martyr, or embraces the dark side and kills Vader, only to be turned into the Emperor’s new enforcer. In the canon ending of the game, his heroic sacrifice inspires the formation of the Rebel Alliance, and his family crest becomes the symbol of the Rebellion.
A clone of Starkiller is later introduced in The Force Unleashed II, where Vader attempts to recreate his fallen apprentice. This clone, who may or may not be the original Starkiller, retains his memories and emotions, leading him on another quest for self-discovery. Throughout the sequel, he searches for Juno Eclipse and struggles with the existential crisis of being a clone. His fate remains uncertain, as the planned third game was never developed.
Although Starkiller exists only in the Legends continuity, his impact on Star Wars storytelling is significant. His journey from Sith assassin to hero mirrors classic redemption arcs seen throughout the franchise. His sheer power, emotional depth, and tragic fate make him one of the most memorable non-canon characters. Many fans continue to hope for his return in some form within the Disney-era canon.
Ultimately, Starkiller represents the ultimate “what-if” scenario of a Force user caught between light and dark. His story explores themes of identity, destiny, and the true meaning of power, making him a compelling figure in Star Warshistory. Whether as Vader’s secret weapon or as the spark of rebellion, Starkiller’s legend continues to resonate with fans long after the games’ release.