Mastering the Force: Unleashing the True Power of Ataru - Lightsaber Form IV Explained

Discovering different methods of wielding a lightsaber, like the artistic Lightsaber Form IV: Ataru, brings immense joy to devoted Star Wars enthusiasts. The third form, Soresu, primarily focuses on defense, often neglecting other aspects of combat. Though effective within its limitations, this form lacks offensive tactics.

As lightsaber combat styles evolved, the flaws of Lightsaber Form III: Soresu became evident. To overcome these limitations, a new form emerged. Form IV, Ataru, strikes a balance between offense and defense, earning it the moniker of the Aggression Form. By incorporating Force-empowered acrobatics and a relentless onslaught of attacks, Ataru proves to be the most dynamic and visually captivating of all the combat forms. Engaging in lightsaber duels with this form creates a truly mesmerizing spectacle.

Origin of Form IV: Ataru

Ataru, a combat technique known for its assertiveness, relies on a skillful combination of speed and agility. This unique approach has garnered alternative titles such as the Way of the Hawk-bat and the Aggression Form. The history of Ataru dates back to the times of the Old Republic, with records tracing its use as far back as the Mandalorian Wars. During this period, it became a favored choice among the Jedi. As time progressed, Ataru maintained its popularity among Jedi in later periods of the Republic, and even the Sith were known to adopt its principles.

In the Star Wars universe, Form IV, which Ataru belongs to, was particularly renowned for close-quarters combat, proving effective against individual opponents. However, due to its aggressive nature, Ataru was not well-suited for encounters with multiple foes. It displayed limitations when facing blaster attacks, especially from numerous opponents.

Famous Practitioners

Prominent figures from the Old Republic era, such as Yoda and Qui-Gon Jinn, embraced the Ataru combat style. Yoda, in particular, achieved mastery in Form IV due to his deep connection with the Force. His proficiency in this form was evident in his frequent use of it in battles, making him almost impervious to various enemies, including Separatist battle droids. Despite his small size and advanced age, Yoda's expertise in Ataru made him a formidable force.

Obi-Wan Kenobi, another skilled practitioner of Ataru, learned the form from Qui-Gon Jinn during his apprenticeship. After his master's death on Naboo, Kenobi shifted his focus to Soresu, aiming to combine the strengths of both forms. This allowed him to compensate for Ataru's inherent lack of defense.

Anakin Skywalker's enthusiastic character as a Padawan perfectly aligned with the energetic essence of Ataru, motivating him to delve into studying the form. His affinity for this style became the groundwork for his eventual mastery of Form V. Throughout the Clone Wars, while he excelled in Djem So, Anakin showcased his progression in Ataru by incorporating its agile maneuvers into his lightsaber duels. He even shared his knowledge of Ataru with his apprentice, Ahsoka Tano.

Various Jedi, including Weequay Jedi Sora Bulq, Lannik Jedi Master Even Piell, and Nautolan Jedi Master Kit Fisto, were adept practitioners of Form IV. Even Piell's apprentice, Jax Pavan, along with other forms, refined his skills in Ataru during his Jedi training. Master Luke Skywalker and his wife, Mara Jade Skywalker, were also proficient in Ataru.

Darth Vader's defeat on Mustafar marked the beginning of his transformative journey, during which he incorporated elements of Form IV into his own personalized version of Form V. He passed on his knowledge of the Ataru style to his secret apprentice, who became well-versed in its techniques. Additionally, Marek's droid PROXY made a sincere effort to replicate Ataru, taking inspiration from the abilities of Qui-Gon Jinn. However, PROXY's emulation lacked the assistance of the Force, making it vulnerable to Marek's exploitation. Nevertheless, Marek recognized and admired PROXY's impressive execution of Ataru techniques.

Known Maneuvers

Ataru prioritized speed above all else, in contrast to Form I's focus on power. This shift made sense given the distinctive nature of lightsabers, which rendered the wielder's physical strength less crucial.

In Ataru, the foundational stance consisted of a balanced two-handed guard, with the lightsaber held vertically by both hands on either the right or left side of the body. A highly effective technique in Ataru was the Hawk-Bat Swoop, which aimed to catch the opponent off-guard with swift strikes, making it difficult for them to react and allowing the attacker to escape before retaliation could occur.

Another impressive move in the Ataru arsenal was the Saber Swarm, which involved launching a series of rapid and concise strikes at the adversary, forcing them into a defensive position. Ataru practitioners demonstrated exceptional finesse in executing this combination. Both the Hawk-Bat Swoop and the Saber Swarm were closely linked to the Falling Leaf technique, which gained prominence during the era of the New Sith Wars.

Form IV: Ataru differed from the previous form by focusing more on agility and speed, rather than pure strength. This change not only made sense in terms of progression, but also showcased the exceptional qualities of lightsabers as energy weapons and as iconic symbols within the Star Wars universe.