Introduction

The Star Wars saga is replete with powerful characters, particularly from the Episodes VII-IX. Two of the most intriguing characters are Anakin Skywalker, the young farmer turned feared Sith Lord, and Supreme Leader Snoke, the mysterious and enigmatic figure who stands behind the scenes. The question often arises: who was more powerful, Anakin Skywalker (or Darth Vader) or Supreme Leader Snoke? This article delves into the character strengths and impacts of both figures to determine who had a bigger impact on the galaxy.

The Might of Anakin Skywalker/Darth Vader

Anakin Skywalker’s journey is one of ambition, transformation, and darkness. Initially a slave-turned-Republic hero, Anakin became a Sith Lord, earning the name Darth Vader. While Anakin’s potential for the dark side was immense, the lightsaber duel with Obi-Wan Kenobi during the Battle of Geonosis left him with a scar on his face and a psychological scar that led to his fall. The Chosen One was nearly scarred both physically and spiritually, but his ties to the Force remained unbroken. By the time of the Galactic Civil War, he had become one of the most powerful Sith Lords, second only to Darth Sidious (Palpatine).

The Mysterious Supreme Leader Snoke

Supreme Leader Snoke enters the picture much later in the saga, appearing in The Force Awakens and his role continues through The Rise of Skywalker. He is a Kel D’aarcerer with a considerable influence over the First Order, although the extent of his powers remains a mystery. Snoke is enigmatic, often speaking in riddles and manipulations. His true identity is initially unknown, adding to the intrigue. It is later revealed that he is a clone of Emperor Palpatine, created to maintain control over the First Order. His power and influence seem to emanate from his connection to the dark side but are ultimately subservient to Palpatine’s commands.

The Power Dynamics

While Anakin Skywalker/Darth Vader is unquestionably powerful, his growth was stunted by the injuries sustained during the Battle of Endor, particularly the scarification. Despite this, his legacy as a Sith Lord is significant, as demonstrated by his influence on the younger generation, including Rey and Kylo Ren. On the other hand, Supreme Leader Snoke, mainly a conduit for Palpatine’s power, is more enigmatic and mysterious. His influence is backed by the Sith lineage of Palpatine, but his true power remains ambiguous. This ambiguity contributes to the debate over who is more powerful: the iconic Sith Lord or the mysterious, shrouded figure in the shadows?

The Impact on the Galaxy

Both Anakin Skywalker/Darth Vader and Supreme Leader Snoke had a substantial impact on the galaxy, though their methods and the nature of their influence differ significantly. Anakin’s actions and decisions, particularly his transformation into Darth Vader, had far-reaching consequences for the galaxy. His rivalry with Obi-Wan Kenobi and Mace Windu, as well as his later betrayal and turn to the dark side, laid the groundwork for the eventual rise of the Empire. His impact, through the Sith Lord he became, is undeniable.

Supreme Leader Snoke, while appearing later in the saga, exercised significant control over the First Order, guiding them through their post-Empire rise. His manipulation of Kylo Ren and his apparent influence over the dark side of the Force are noteworthy. However, his true power is ultimately determined by Palpatine, and his own power remains questionable. The revelation that he is a clone of Palpatine, created to maintain control, diminishes his claim to ultimate power in the eyes of many.

Conclusion

While both Anakin Skywalker/Darth Vader and Supreme Leader Snoke are powerful and influential characters, the stark differences in their journeys and the extent of their respective impacts lead to the conclusion that Anakin Skywalker/Darth Vader had a more definitive and direct influence on the galaxy. However, it’s important to acknowledge that the enigma and complexity surrounding Supreme Leader Snoke make his role in the saga equally significant, if indirectly so.