Lightsaber Combat Forms: A Comprehensive Breakdown of the 7 Forms

Star Wars' lightsaber is the traditional weapon of the Jedi and the Sith, with seven different lightsaber forms in canon. When Luke Skywalker first saw his father's lightsaber, he was captivated by it. Obi-Wan Kenobi explained, "This is the weapon of a Jedi Knight. Not as clumsy or random as a blaster. An elegant weapon for a more civilized time." The lightsaber symbolizes Jedi traditions and reflects one's mastery of the Force, including the various lightsaber types in Star Wars.

During the prequel era, Padawans were encouraged to try out all lightsaber forms to discover the one that suited them best. Some forms are more suitable for combat, while others focus on defense. In the Clone Wars, many Jedi adopted combative forms due to the galaxy being at war. Characters like Luke and Leia use Vader's form because of their familiarity with it. The most skilled Jedi master multiple lightsaber forms and switch between them as needed, a concept that could be further explored in future Star Wars movies.

Form I: Shii-Cho

A common lightsaber form seen throughout the Star Wars prequel trilogy

The Jedi strike force and Padme stand at the ready with their lightsabers during the Battle of Geonosis in Star Wars: Episode II - Attack of the Clones - A common lightsaber form seen throughout the Star Wars prequel trilogy - Form I: Shii-Cho

Shii-Cho is considered the oldest and most basic lightsaber form. It is usually the first form that Jedi learn, and they often rely on it as a last resort when other techniques fail. In Star Wars: The Clone Wars, many Jedi can be seen using Shii-Cho at times, especially when they are in a tight spot such as during Order 66.

A Jedi truly masters Form I only after achieving inner peace.

Form II: Makashi

Form II, also known as Makashi, is a refined and elegant lightsaber combat form. Unlike the aggressive nature of Form I, Makashi focuses on precision and finesse in combat. Jedi who master Makashi are able to effectively defend against multiple opponents and counterattack with calculated strikes. The form is characterized by its emphasis on dueling, making it particularly effective against opponents who rely heavily on brute strength. Jedi who excel in Makashi are often seen as sophisticated and skilled swordsmen.

Count Dooku's preferred lightsaber form

Christopher Lee plays Count Dooku - Count Dooku's preferred lightsaber form - Form II: Makashi

Makashi, also known as Form II, was created during a time when lightsabers were becoming more widespread among Jedi and Sith warriors. This elegant lightsaber style is best suited for highly skilled duelists who prefer precision and finesse over brute force. Form II focuses on strategic and controlled strikes to gain an advantage in one-on-one combat situations. Additionally, Makashi is adaptable to various experimental lightsaber designs.

Form III: Soresu

The use of unique lightsaber designs was prevalent during the Hundred Years of Darkness, such as crossguard lightsabers. Ahsoka Tano popularized the use of a second shoto blade. Despite falling out of favor, some Jedi, like Ki-Adi-Mundi, continued to practice Makashi. Count Dooku, a master of Makashi, gained a fearsome reputation as a lightsaber duelist, which may have contributed to his fall to the dark side.

Obi-Wan Kenobi was considered the master of Soresu

Ewan McGregor as Obi-Wan Kenobi in Revenge of the Sith. - Obi-Wan Kenobi was considered the master of Soresu - Form III: Soresu

Form III, known as Soresu, was created as a response to the increase in blasters throughout the galaxy. This form teaches Jedi how to deflect blaster bolts with their lightsabers. By the time of the prequel trilogy, all Jedi were trained in Soresu because it is a highly effective skill to have.

Form IV: Ataru

In the in-universe guidebook Secrets of the Jedi, Luke Skywalker mentions that Padawans initially focus on defense by learning to block laser blasts while wearing special helmets that obscure their sight. This helps them learn to trust the Force to guide them. Obi-Wan Kenobi and Kanan Jarrus were known for their skill in the Soresu form. Luke Skywalker, trained by Obi-Wan, also showed proficiency in Form III, as seen in his first lightsaber usage in the Star Wars saga when he deflected blaster bolts on the Millennium Falcon.

Master Yoda's fearsome lightsaber form almost wore even Palpatine down

Yoda Wields a Lightsaber in Star Wars Episode II Attack of the Clones - Master Yoda's fearsome lightsaber form almost wore even Palpatine down - Form IV: Ataru

Ataru is known for being a highly aggressive form of lightsaber combat that heavily incorporates acrobatics with the assistance of the Force. This style is typically mastered by Jedi who excel in their connection to the Force. Like Makashi, Ataru is most effective in one-on-one duels, where practitioners of Form IV strive to end the battle quickly and decisively.

Form V: Shien & Djem So

The most skilled Ataru masters are known for their ability to swiftly move around their surroundings, delivering powerful strikes that catch opponents off guard and put them on the defensive. This form was famously used by Yoda in his battles with Count Dooku and Darth Sidious in the Star Wars movies. Interestingly, many practitioners of Ataru have been drawn to the dark side, making it a popular choice among Sith users.

Anakin Skywalker & Ahsoka Tano's preferred lightsaber forms

Anakin Skywalker holding his lightsaber in Revenge of the Sith - Anakin Skywalker & Ahsoka Tano's preferred lightsaber forms - Form V: Shien & Djem So

Shien and Djem So were created by Form III practitioners who wanted a more aggressive approach. Shien focuses on long-range defense, allowing users to deflect blaster shots, while Djem So is best for close combat with lightsabers. Ahsoka Tano liked Djem So because of its unique reverse grip. Both styles build on Form III's techniques, like strong blocks, parries, powerful counterattacks, and quick ripostes.

Many Jedi believed that Shien and Djem So did not align with the Jedi principles. Form V, known for its adaptability, became a favorite of Anakin Skywalker. Interestingly, some Jedi felt that Shien and Djem So strayed too close to using the Force for attack rather than defense. This sentiment is reflected in another Form V user in Star Wars lore: Ahsoka's Baylan Skoll, who had to modify the form to accommodate her unique Great Lightsaber.

Form VI: Niman

A surprising lightsaber form used by Darth Maul

Maul faces off and prepares to duel with Ahsoka Tano on Mandalore - A surprising lightsaber form used by Darth Maul - Form VI: Niman

Form VI, Niman, is often seen as a combination of previous forms. It was the last form to be widely accepted by the Jedi and focuses on achieving balance in the Force. The Jedi who created Niman aimed to achieve victory without overpowering their opponent, prioritizing self-defense and justice over the lure of power.

Despite this philosophy, Darth Maul, a disciple of Darth Sidious, utilized Niman in Star Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace, indicating that his master intentionally went against the Jedi's preferred fighting style. Practitioners of Niman often integrate lightsaber combat with the Force itself, making it a popular choice for Jedi who value more than just combat skills.

Form VII: Juyo (or Vaapad)

Mace Windu is one of the few Form VII practitioners

Mace Windu wields his purple lightsaber - Mace Windu is one of the few Form VII practitioners - Form VII: Juyo (or Vaapad)

The final lightsaber combat form, Juyo, is the most controversial. It is said to have originated long before the Skywalker Saga from Form I. Juyo stands out from other forms as it encourages Jedi to embrace their emotions and use them to power a relentless attack.

Form VII, also known as Juyo, was forbidden by the Jedi for a significant period. However, Jedi Master Mace Windu decided to refine Juyo into a variation called Vaapad, which he considered the ultimate form of Form VII. Windu created Vaapad to manage his own inner darkness, balancing between the light and dark sides of the Force. He was cautious about teaching Vaapad to others, fearing they might not be able to control their emotions like he did. It remains uncertain whether Star Wars will revisit Vaapad in the future.

Editor's P/S:

This comprehensive article delves into the intricate world of lightsaber forms in the Star Wars universe, providing a fascinating exploration of the seven distinct styles and their significance. The article highlights the origins, characteristics, and notable practitioners of each form, offering valuable insights into the nuances of lightsaber combat. By examining the various techniques and philosophies associated with each form, the article effectively portrays the diversity and complexity of the Jedi and Sith combat traditions.

The article not only provides a detailed overview of the lightsaber forms but also explores their implications for the characters and the overall narrative. It emphasizes the connection between lightsaber form and the personal journey of each Jedi, highlighting how their choices reflect their beliefs, strengths, and weaknesses. The article also raises intriguing questions about the future of lightsaber combat in the Star Wars franchise, leaving the reader eager to witness the further development and exploration of these iconic fighting styles in upcoming installments.