Cad Bane's Xanadu Blood - A Closer Look

2/23/2026

Hasbro released Cad Bane’s Xanadu Blood in 2010 as part of The Clone Wars line for 3 3/4-inch Star Wars action figures. Retailing at $24.99, the vehicle arrived in Clone Wars packaging and was positioned as a mid-sized release in the mainline assortment. It was not a mini-rig, yet it was not an oversized flagship vehicle either. Instead, Xanadu Blood fit comfortably in between, offering collectors a substantial display piece without taking up excessive shelf space. As Cad Bane’s personal ship (a heavily modified Rogue-class Porax-38 starfighter, gifted to Bane by Darth Sidious as payment for stealing a Holocron from the Jedi Temple) seen in The Clone Wars, the Xanadu Blood quickly became an essential addition for fans of the notorious bounty hunter.

Packaging and Diorama Backdrop

One of the standout features of Cad Bane’s Xanadu Blood was the packaging design. When opened carefully, the interior cardboard could be folded into a diorama-style backdrop featuring planetary scenery. This thoughtful inclusion added value for collectors who enjoy creating dynamic shelf displays. The backdrop was large enough to frame the Xanadu Blood properly, offering a simple yet effective worldbuilding element straight out of the box.

Assembly and Instructions

Assembly of the Xanadu Blood is straightforward. Inside the box, collectors will find a single one-sided instruction sheet. The vehicle requires minimal setup. Two missiles must be slotted into their designated launch ports, and two rear thrusters attach to the back of the ship. There are no additional accessories and no electronic features included. The simplicity of the build allows collectors to get the Xanadu Blood display-ready within minutes.

Cockpit and Figure Compatibility

The cockpit hatch opens to reveal seating for one 3.75-inch Star Wars action figure. We tested the vehicle with the 2023 Star Wars The Vintage Collection Cad Bane figure, and it fits securely inside the Xanadu Blood. The figure is able to grip the controls with both hands, though the interior is undeniably tight. With patience and careful positioning, the cockpit canopy can be fully closed with the figure inside, creating a clean and accurate display.

Paint Applications and Sculpt Details

The paint application on the Xanadu Blood is visually appealing, featuring subtle weathering and a consistent wash across the hull. While the vehicle does not rely on heavy battle damage effects, the wash enhances panel lines and sculpted detail throughout the ship. The cockpit canopy is highly reflective with a dark blue tint, which gives the vehicle a striking look under display lighting.

There are two panels on the wings that can be opened to reveal internal mechanical sculpting beneath. These inner details are molded in the same color as the exterior hull and were not given additional paint applications. A silver or gray treatment with added weathering would have elevated these sections, but even without it, the overall finish of the Xanadu Blood remains impressive for a mainline 2010 release.

Features and Play Functions

The Xanadu Blood includes multiple functional features. The twin missiles can be launched by pressing discreet buttons located on either side of the ship. The rear thrusters rotate independently from one another, allowing for subtle display adjustments. The landing gear system consists of supports beneath both engines as well as a central rear landing strut, providing balanced stability when displayed on a shelf.

Repaint Origins and Collectibility

It is worth noting that Cad Bane’s Xanadu Blood is a repaint of the earlier MagnaGuard starfighter mold. However, since the Xanadu Blood appears in The Clone Wars as Cad Bane’s personal vessel, Hasbro’s decision to adapt and release it in 2010 remains a welcome addition to the line. For collectors focused on The Clone Wars or building out a comprehensive Cad Bane display, the Xanadu Blood is difficult to overlook.

More than a decade later, the Xanadu Blood continues to contribute to the immersive worldbuilding that makes collecting 3.75-inch Star Wars vehicles so rewarding. Whether displayed alongside Clone Wars figures or paired with modern Vintage Collection releases, Cad Bane’s Xanadu Blood remains a solid mid-sized vehicle that captures the essence of the character and the era.