The universe of “Star Wars” is populated with an endless array of characters, each possessing their unique tales. So, what draws fans back to the same figures? This is particularly true for droids, which are robots repeatedly manufactured in factories and often exhibit quirks that extend beyond basic programming. It’s hard to see this, however, since droids like C-3PO tend to dominate the scene. A droid can be overlooked for numerous reasons. Some robots have crucial roles in the narrative but possess such limited screentime that they become eclipsed by other droids of arguably equal or greater significance (yes, R2-D2, we’re looking at you).
Other droids began their journey as mere background elements but were granted thrilling expanded narratives found exclusively within the aptly named expanded universe of “Star Wars” media. Additionally, there exists a select group of droids created during the peak of “Star Wars” enthusiasm but have since been removed from official canon and are nearly forgotten in today’s “Star Wars” landscape. However, there isn’t much to lament about current “Star Wars” media; forthcoming projects like additional “Mando-verse” content seem promising. Still, there are numerous droids from various “Star Wars” realms that warrant more recognition than they receive.
**Nobot**
Nobot is a silver protocol droid — identical to C-3PO — appearing momentarily in “Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace” and later in “LEGO Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga.” You first see Nobot as it rushes into a dwelling in Mos Espa. Your initial reaction might be to pursue Nobot, but that would be a mistake, as after entering the derelict structure, Nobot merely stands there (ominously), scurries into another room, and vanishes like a specter. This is unsettling enough in itself, even for a children’s game, but it takes a darker turn.
As per the in-game description and some de-canonized narratives, Nobot is known to wander aimlessly through the streets of Mos Espa and the nearby sand dunes. The reason for Nobot’s presence remains a mystery, but there’s an unsettling vibe emanating from it. Regardless of how many times Jawas dismantle Nobot for parts, it always reappears in Mos Espa seemingly intact. Physically, that is. Rumors in the Mos Espa market suggest that Nobot was the sole observer of a particularly brutal murder that claimed the life of a woman and her unborn child, and anyone who accessed the droid’s communication module would replay the murder, notably hearing the victim’s horrifying screams.
Depending on whom you inquire in Mos Espa, Nobot is either the perpetrator or a vessel for malevolent spirits. Nobot effectively represents a living ghost tale. Its canonicity may be debatable, but it showcases how diverse storytelling genres can seamlessly blend into “Star Wars.” While a found footage horror film featuring Nobot isn’t necessary, fans likely wouldn’t reject a series centered around urban myths from various “Star Wars” worlds.
**AP-5**
AP-5 is another protocol droid, but unlike C-3PO and Nobot, it belongs to the RA-7 model line. Its visage is more insect-like than human. RA-7 was initially designed as a ship navigator, but after the Empire acquired him, he was demoted to inventory control. His inherent pride led him to believe the role was beneath him, yet this same pride compelled him to fulfill his duties diligently and without protest. Despite this, he invariably sounds irritable, and one could easily think that AP-5’s depiction in “Star Wars: Rebels” draws inspiration from Alan Rickman’s portrayal of Marvin the Android in “The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy.”
While any nod to Douglas Adams’ masterwork is commendable, AP-5 is far more than just a grumbling figure of cynicism and comic relief. He predominantly features in “Star Wars: Rebels,” where he assists the Rebels in establishing bases (his logistics expertise proves beneficial). He even clumsily defends some of these spots. One particular threat surfaces in the form of another allusion that will amuse fans of Ralph McQuarrie (the artist behind iconic designs such as the lightsaber).
In one episode, AP-5 aids in fending off an Imperial spy droid masquerading as a seemingly innocuous protocol droid, closely resembling McQuarrie’s original concept for C-3PO. Although AP-5 eventually slipped into the background, he consistently showed that he served as the C-3PO to the R2-D2 of C1-10P (Chopper, the astromech droid featured in the show).
**EV-9D9**
While a multitude of droids in “Star Wars” are products of their programming, some exhibit quirks that go beyond basic code.