The plasma battle droid represented a colossal variant, towering at 12 feet, of the standard B1-series battle droid utilized by the Trade Federation. These droids unleashed lightning-esque plasma projectiles, possessing sufficient force to overpower even a Jedi's lightsaber. Their primary function was to dismantle enemy installations, which led to vulnerabilities in their own defense.
These uncommon units could be identified from their B1 battle droid counterparts through the green hue of the droid's shoulder armor, along with their imposing stature. The plasma battle droids' destructive firepower and intimidating look made them both lethal and fearsome, but they also suffered from significant clumsiness and poor aim.
During 32 BBY, they briefly served as guards for the Theed Hangar Great Hall amidst the Invasion of Naboo. After the Fall of Theed, both droids were destroyed when confronted by Jedi warriors. Additional units were subsequently discovered within the marshes surrounding the Gungan Ruins, but they suffered the same end as those that came before them.
The plasma battle droids are featured in the 2000 Star Wars: Episode I Jedi Power Battles video game. The presence of these droids in one particular mission clashes with the events of Star Wars: Episode I The Phantom Menace. Within the game, the Jedi characters encounter a pair of plasma battle droids, whereas the film depicts them facing a group of standard battle droids.