Lightsaber Forms Explained: From Shii-Cho to Vaapad

Ever wonder about the distinct ways Jedi and Sith utilize their iconic lightsabers? Well, there are seven different styles to these fights that are known as "forms". Fans who've been around for a while have definitely caught them. But those who are just starting? This is an excellent breakdown for anyone who wants a real feel for these incredible duels.

The Origins of Lightsaber Combat:

These are not just duels or special moves, these are true skills! It appears that many of those who take up this art, begin learning a more elementary version to give them a foundation for these incredible techniques.

Star Wars has a ton of ways to utilize lightsabers to enhance the Jedi Order! You know, their powerful fighting moves! In order for young Jedi, to find their own special techniques and get stronger. It looks like there's been a good tradition to focus on how they practice and hone their skills! It makes sense to use these lightsabers.

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Form I: Shii-Cho

Palpatine Lightsaber Return of the Jedi Image

A lot of Jedi began with this special form.
Known as the "oldest" style.
Also the "most elementary," it was their foundation.
Sometimes Jedi revert back to this move, in a desperate effort.

Shii-Cho looks like an incredible, super simple approach, though what makes it stand out is how powerful and devastatingly quick it can be! It takes an "aggressive" move that will make any opponent stop in their tracks! It's known for the chaotic nature of how it moves. And while you might find this a tough way to fight, Shii-Cho really shows an understanding of "peace." In a true battle, you can find out if the person fighting is at peace. What was fascinating, was this special technique became very important during Order 66.

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Form II: Makashi:

Known for its elegance and grace.
An amazing move when those who practice this are able to execute movements that are controlled.
Makashi looks to have more of a focus on combat and those duels.

This lightsaber fighting style came about to address what was going on in a specific era and with Jedi and Sith growing in strength as well!

Count Dooku, a skilled Sith Lord, was a powerful force. He demonstrated a special form with a weapon known as a "crossguard lightsaber".
And who could forget the impressive Jedi who had two lightsabers called Ahsoka Tano. She is an incredibly special character and had incredible moments in "The Clone Wars!
Some other known practitioners are the Jedi Master Ki-Adi-Mundi.

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Form III: Soresu:

What's really exciting to see, is this is an art, that is designed for those "blasters".

In the early era of lightsabers it seemed to have a major focus, for defense
Soresu would involve how Jedi could deflect "blaster bolts".
These tactics allowed Jedi to stand against a large group of enemies.

That is a major weapon. A "blasters" ability! This would also bring in an incredible defensive move as they deflect the bolts of blaster energy. By the prequel era, a large group of Jedi relied heavily on Soresu. But it's not only about "defense" and the Force is a key part. Jedi could move quickly with this incredible form, while it might make it more challenging. Those who relied on the Force, became masters of Soresu. One of the more recognizable characters is Obi-Wan Kenobi. A Jedi known for deflecting blaster bolts.

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Form IV: Ataru:

Known for its rapid movements and super strong attack techniques, those who rely on Ataru are always able to hit an enemy super fast.
Those who used Ataru needed to have a high level of control over their emotions!
The attacks can often take advantage of their surroundings.

There's no surprise that Ataru was super popular among the Sith.

What's super exciting to know, is Yoda had Ataru! Even better! He utilized this to defeat Count Dooku during "Attack of the Clones."! You know how much fans loved to see this powerful battle as Yoda truly dominated in this amazing scene!

Form V: Shien and Djem So:

One of the more popular techniques. A mix of some of the earlier forms.
These tactics, relied heavily on the strengths of earlier techniques!

In order for Jedi to master it they relied heavily on using Shien. If they want to use more force or Djem So for blade-on-blade duels. Both styles are very complex.

Shien used blocking tactics to send attacks back to opponents!
Djem So really emphasizes attacks that allow the user to be stronger against their opponents.
These powerful moves allowed the Jedi Order to protect themselves with greater power. The Jedi knew these techniques well!

Form VI: Niman:

This special lightsaber skill was super fascinating as a mixture of earlier forms!

Niman was a highly refined skill with Jedi seeking this harmony, which meant seeking inner peace! They really want to keep their skills focused.
Those Jedi had their focus! In the heart of their battles. The purpose was to remain as peaceful and strong! The "Diplomat's Form" was their unique approach that looked for solutions to stop violence, and give opponents respect. It's pretty unique when you really stop and think about how much those values were essential for the Jedi!

However, there was one Sith Lord, who was one of those that practiced this art that was truly remarkable! That was Darth Maul! If you are a "Star Wars" fan you are likely remembering the time Darth Maul fought against Obi-Wan Kenobi in "The Phantom Menace!" His mastery over Niman is evident. It turns out this particular Sith lord embraced "peace." But it also appears he had other strategies!

Form VII: Juyo or Vaapad:

The seventh style!
And this is one that really relies heavily on feelings. Jedi embraced their emotional, chaotic sides when they utilized Juyo! It's so distinct because it doesn't look for defense and uses emotions.

That makes it so difficult and the only reason the Jedi made it so controversial, the emotions, the lack of focus on being at "peace." This was truly one of the "forbidden forms" for the Jedi Order, it seemed like the most important skill to keep this form in check! If those that try this don't maintain this balance. They'll be overcome by the dark side. You can't have a series without having a "forbidden form" because everyone is interested in the dark side of these stories!

Fans will find that the most prominent master who went through this. The amazing, skilled Mace Windu was truly at the height of his game, taking these tactics to the next level!

Jar'Kai:

You will need a "lightsaber." or two! The idea of having these two lightsabers in hand and it seems the debate continues to go on and it may be more than a mere technique! The real power comes with knowing when to use either one for a truly powerful defensive move or going for a fast, furious, offensive attack.

Many are going to gravitate towards Djem So which is another unique style! As a fan, there's nothing more interesting than seeing this two-lightsaber trick take hold as a big part of the Jedi universe!

Trakata:

This "forbidden form" really looks to push Jedi and Sith! It was used recently in the show The Acolyte!, for a series that is a must-see! Fans have loved its epicness.

It gives us something truly fascinating. They turn their lightsabers "off"! There's a pause before making that super fast move to kill their enemies, that puts an intense amount of risk to defeat your enemy! It takes more skills to take on this deadly form, and no wonder it's considered an act of dishonor.

The use of armor is an essential factor, it will protect them from harm and allows the character to really take this form and be truly aggressive! For anyone who is seeking a greater challenge!

If that wasn't impressive enough it has been said that the Sith hated Trakata because the person who's trying to master this.

The most remarkable thing was the combination of several of the special "lightsaber" forms, they were able to use the Force, these amazing powers that came with wielding lightsabers, in some really special ways!

Fans love all these different lightsaber styles and how they have been able to really define what it's like to be part of a "Star Wars" battle! With more content being created. It appears these lightsabers are in our future!