Battle of the Astromech Droids: R2-D2

By Jennifer Renson | Nov 15, 2018

The people have spoken and the results are in. Upon asking fans which Astromech Droid do they like better, R2-D2 takes the trophy defeating BB-8.

Some context is in order.

Two polls were conducted, one on Facebook and the other on Twitter asking Star Wars fans which Astromech Droid they liked better: R2-D2 or BB-8. In the end, the Facebook results were as follows: R2-D2 83 percent, BB-8 17 percent with 23 votes total. On Twitter the results were as follows: R2-D2 69 percent, BB-8 31 percent with 29 votes total.

It’s important to note that there was no wrong answer, for both droids are equally interesting in their own way. Many who voted stated it was hard to pick just one while suggesting other droids they liked. The idea for this poll came about out of pure curiosity.

More from Editorial

While R2-D2 captured the hearts of many when Star Wars first began, BB-8 has become equally as popular with the arrival of the new films. I often find R2-D2 to be my favorite character from all current eight Star Wars films, aside from Yoda.

For those who are unfamiliar R2-D2 is an Astromech Droid whose claim to fame was Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope. In this first Star Wars film, he carried the secret plans of the Death Star along with Princess Leia’s iconic holographic message for help to Obi-Wan Kenobi. From there the comedic and intelligent droid not only followed Luke on his journey to defeating Emperor Palpatine but had been a trusty companion for the likes of Anakin Skywalker and Obi-Wan Kenobi in the prequels.

Unlike R2’s worrisome sidekick C-3PO, he spoke only in sounds that ranged from low and static to loud and extravagant. His abilities ranged from repairing damaged starships to being able to defend himself against larger droids. Tiny but mighty, R2-D2 has had quite a history and become more than a loyal copilot. For something lacking any real human capability, R2-D2 inhibits very human-like characteristics.

He seems to understand human emotions and is able to translate how he is feeling through the very expansive sounds he produces. He has had C-3PO translate for him and had human characters be able to understand him without much issue. Throughout several films, he has been the sole contributor of comic relief and the voice of reason when even the most vigilant Jedi lose their way. Perhaps it is in his incredible programming, but nothing seems to get this droid down.

Whether in the midst of a battle with other starships in space or escaping the dreaded creature from beneath on Dagobah, nothing could stop R2-D2.

Today he is everywhere Star Wars merchandise can be found: toys, clothing, even coffee makers. I’d be surprised if you attended a single comic convention and not seen either R2-D2 cosplay or elaborate replicas roaming the convention floor wowing guests of all ages. They certainly grabbed my attention regardless of what I am looking at.

As the legacy of Star Wars continues to change and develop, it’s wonderful to see that R2-D2 has remained the very lovable droid so many fans have come to adore. Click here for R2-D2’s entire history. Considering this was the first poll I have ever conducted for Dork Side of the Force I am very thankful to everyone who participated and I look forward to doing more polls in the future.

Next. Making the case for Rey Kenobi. dark

What are your thoughts on R2-D2? Write your answers in the comment section down below! I’d love to read them!