C-3PX was a Cybot Galactica 3PX-series protocol droid reprogrammed to be an assassin droid. C-3PX was created as a stock 3PX-series protocol droid manufactured by Cybot Galactica some time before 32 BBY. He appeared identical to any other stock 3PX unit, until his acquirement by Darth Maul. Maul originally utilized the droid as a simple interface with people whom Maul viewed as "distractions"; however, Maul saw the usefulness of a well-armed and equipped droid assassin. He added eighty-three weapons to the frame of the droid, all concealable, replaced the original 3PX plating with 3PO-series type plating, and programmed the droid to become an assassin capable of working autonomously.