The Astonishing Return of Ahsoka Revives an Epic Star Wars Parallel Lost Since the Lucas Era

Warning! This article contains SPOILERS for Ahsoka episode 3.

Summary

In Ahsoka episode 3, there are several nods and hidden surprises relating to the original Star Wars trilogy. These include Sabine's training as a Jedi and Ahsoka's thrilling aerial battles.

Ahsoka and Sabine encounter a formidable obstacle as they confront two starfighter squadrons, a demanding test that highlights Ahsoka's prowess as a skilled starfighter pilot.

In a brilliant display of tactical prowess and experience in space battles, Filoni skillfully incorporates a nostalgic touch from the original trilogy as Shin Hati and Marrok seamlessly "form up" in a classic X-wing attack formation.

Episode 3 of Ahsoka is a treasure trove of references and subtle nods to George Lucas' original Star Wars trilogy. Sabine Wren's Jedi training mirrors the path taken by Luke Skywalker, while Filoni pays homage to Lucas by showcasing Ahsoka's skilled aerial battles. As Ahsoka and Sabine track down Morgan Elsbeth, their journey leads them to the planet Seatos in the Denab System. However, their progress is impeded by the surprise attack of two starfighter squadrons commanded by Shin Hati and Marrok. Despite Ahsoka's proficiency as a starfighter pilot, it becomes apparent that they are outnumbered. With their shuttle disabled, the pair must engage in a perilous space battle, their survival hanging by a thread. Miraculously, the timely intervention of purrgil on Seatos allows them to narrowly escape destruction. In this epic confrontation with Shin Hati and Marrok, Filoni masterfully incorporates a clever callback to the original trilogy.

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Ahsoka Brings Back A Classic Star Wars Formation

Upon entering Morgan's sector above Seatos, Ahsoka's shuttle is joined by Marrok on Shin Hati's wing, reflecting the X-wing attack formations employed in the Battle of Yavin against the Death Star. Initially, this may appear to be a mere reference, but it holds significant meaning to Shin's tactical prowess. Despite beginning with two starfighters each, Shin quickly recognizes the need to merge into a single squadron when half of their fighters are eliminated by Sabine. She instructs Marrok to "form up," demonstrating her astute understanding of the situation and the necessity of collaboration to stand a chance against Ahsoka's shuttle. Not only does Shin promptly grasp the importance of working together with Marrok, but she also orchestrates an ambush on their adversaries. By intentionally exiting hyperspace some distance away from Seatos, Huyang aims to maintain stealth during their approach. Nonetheless, Shin, or possibly her mentor Baylan Skoll, anticipates and predicts Huyang's tactics, setting a cunning trap for the shuttle even before its arrival.

This Is The Best Easter Egg In Ahsoka So Far

Sabine's training in Zatochi was a clever nod to one of Luke's initial lightsaber lessons. Additionally, Shin and Marrok's utilization of starfighter techniques from the original trilogy seamlessly fits into the narrative. It is logical that squadron formations have remained consistent since A New Hope, as they proved to be highly effective in numerous Rebellion battles. The expert fighter tactics displayed by Shin Hati and Marrok also imply that they have previous experience in space battles. Filoni's inclusion of traditional starfighter combat in Ahsoka episode 3 provides the audience with a nostalgic homage to Lucas' work. Catch new episodes of Ahsoka every Tuesday at 6pm PT / 9pm ET on Disney+.