Your Ultimate Guide to Lightsaber Fighting Styles and Combat Tips

There are seven types of lightsaber combat, which are central parts of the Star Wars universe. And every Padawan requires intense training. It takes years of commitment, practice, and mastery of self-discipline for Padwanas to become skilled Jedi. 

Although Jedi training is more emphasized, Siths equally go under training to be skilled warriors. Some warriors are skilled at most of the techniques below, whereas some know only a few. This blog will delve into all seven lightsaber fighting styles, exploring their distinct characteristics and who acquired these skills.

Seven Forms of Lightsaber Combat & Who Used It

Each of the seven forms below is unique, with its own distinct strengths and weaknesses. 

Form I: Shii-Cho

Another Name	The Way of the Sarlacc, or The Determination Form
Practitioners	Kit Fisto, Grand Master Yoda, and Mace Windu

Shii-Cho is the first fighting style taught to initiates within the Jedi Order. It is one of the oldest and most basic lightsaber combat styles. Also, it is a frequently used technique that you might have witnessed throughout the Star Wars prequel trilogy. 

Kenobi believed that this fighting style was wild, raw, and deadly, demanding a great deal of emotional intensity. It is practiced to establish the fundamental principles of attacks, parries, and body target zones. It also featured two methods of combat: Ideal and Live Combat Form, which dictated how these moves were performed.

Younglings are taught this fighting technique, which is good to start with. However, this doesn’t seem as effective against other most advanced forms. 

Form II: Makashi

Another Name	The Way of the Ysalamiri, or The Contention Form
Practitioners	Count Dooku, Ki-Adi-Mundi, and Darth Vader

Makashi is the second of the all traditional styles of lightsaber combat. It is developed after Form I became outdated among the Sith and Jedi due to its limitations. It is the most duel-centeric suitable for the most skilled duelists, such as Count Dooku. 

This style is known for being the most elegant and focused. It utilizes balance and footwork to outmaneuver opponents. It prioritizes fluidity, precision, and efficient movement over strength, employing jabs and light cuts instead of heavy swings. It also enables an initiate to defend against an opponent with minimal effort, emphasizing the prevention of disarmament. 

Makashi practitioners often wielded lightsabers that specialized in one-handed moves, such as Count Dooku and his curved-hilt lightsabers, which allowed greater strength and precision. However, over time, the form’s limitations reduced its practical use among the warriors, making it ineffective against enemies with projectile weapons. 

Form III: Soresu

Another Name	The Way of the Mynock, or the Resilience Form
Practitioners	Obi-Wan Kenobi, Count Dooku, Darth Vader, and Galen Marek

When Makashi became obsolete, it was time for Soresu to overtake in response to the growing number of blasters in the galaxy. Soresu, the third form of lightsaber fighting, became immensely popular during the Clone Wars. 

Over time, it became the ultimate embodiment of non-aggressive Jedi philosophy. Soresu focuses on tight blade work and subtle dodges to maximize defensive coverage and minimize exposure to ranged attacks. 

Although difficult to master, this fighting style became more prominent, especially among the Jedi, for its defensive techniques. Soresu practitioners like Obi-Wan Kenobi used this technique to block any strike and move with utmost grace and finesse.

Form IV: Ataru

Another Name	The Way of the Hawk-Bat, or The Aggression Form
Practitioners	Master Yoda, Qui-Gon Jinn, Luke Skywalker

The fourth lightsaber combat style, Ataru is fast-paced and most effective against a single opponent. However, it is not recommended for use against opponents wielding blasters due to being less effective in extended battles and confined areas.

It is the most aggressive form, relying heavily on Force-assisted acrobatics and emphasizing rapid, agile movements. Jedi are recommended to master this fighting style to enhance their speed and stamina. Those who’re master at this form could move at high speed, jumping and attacking through the air. 

It is considered best while one-on-one dueling. The masters of this form could launch sweeping strikes so swiftly, forcing the foes to be on the defensive. 

Remember Master Yoda while fighting with Count Dooku in the Attack of the Clones? His moves and fighting styles in the epic scene are perfect for understanding this combat style.

Form V: Shien & Djem So

Another Name	The Way of the Krayt Dragon or The Perseverance Form
Practitioners	Anakin Skywalker, Ahsoka Tano, Plo Koon, Luke Skywalker

Those who practiced Form III developed the fifth and most aggressive dueling form, realizing the need for a more offensive edge. This technique is characterized by power attacks and defense followed by a counterstrike. 

Shien, the original version form, is better at blocking blaster bolts than in blade-to-blade combat. On the other hand, Djem So, which is developed later, is focused on lightsaber battles. 

Both styles aimed to use an opponent's attack against them, with Shien reflecting blaster bolts back to their source and Djem So focusing on quick counterattacks. However, not all Jedi favored this style as it highly promoted aggression and domination; many still practiced it.

Form VI: Niman

Another Name	The Way of the Rancor, the Moderation Form
Practitioners	Darth Maul, Exar Kun, Yoda, and Mace Windu

Niman, the sixth combat style, is a hybrid martial art that combines elements from the previous lightsaber forms into one comprehensive fighting style. It is developed from pre-existing martial arts fighting styles that both focused on the use of dual-blades. 

It is focused on a relaxed approach to blade work and is designed as a simple and easy-to-master form for Jedi who focus on study and diplomacy. Its effectiveness in combat relied on a practitioner's intuition and creativity rather than the predictable techniques typical of other forms. However, it is extremely deadly in the hands of a skilled practitioner such as Exar Kun. 

Form VII: Juyo (or Vaapad)

Another Name	The Way of the Vornskr, or the Ferocity Form
Practitioners	Mace Windu, the Stranger

Now, finally comes the seventh of all lightsaber combat forms– Form VII. The two variants, Juyo and Vaapad, utilized bold and direct movements. During the time of the prequel era, Jedi master Mace Windu refined Juyo into an offshoot known as Vaapad, perfecting Form VII. He developed this style so that he could master his inner darkness and bridge the gap between light and dark Force. 

He also tried teaching this style to his apprentices, although he feared that they might not master it as perfectly as he did. Many Jedi do not favor this form, and whether it’ll reappear in Star Wars films is still a mystery. 

Other Forms

That’s not it! Yes, that’s not all lightsaber combat styles! There are more, and you might want to delve a bit deeper into it. 

Jar'Kai

Practitioners

Ahsoka Tano, Darth Sidious, Pong Krell, and Asajj Ventress.

A combat style that uses two weapons, Jar’Kai involves two lightsabers, one standard and one shorter Shoto blade, or even two double-bladed lightsabers. Skilled practitioners might also pair a regular lightsaber with a longer melee weapon, like a bladed staff or another double-bladed lightsaber. Both light and dark side Force users have used Jar'Kai, including Ahsoka Tano, Darth Sidious, Pong Krell, and Asajj Ventress.

Tràkata

Practitioners

The Stranger

Tràkata's fighting style involved switching on and off the lightsaber blade during combat. The Stranger, who didn’t follow the traditional rules of the lightsaber battle, used this fighting style. 

It is considered the forbidden form because the Jedi believe it to be dishonorable. Due to its weaknesses, even the Sith don’t like it. The following style has only been witnessed in The Acolyte so far.    

Lightsaber Combat Tips You Must Know

Each warrior in the lore is familiar with every style but tends to favor specific ones in combat. They believe it's crucial for any fighter to understand their own abilities and strengths and choose the styles that best suit them. 

The personal connection to a particular fighting style can make all the difference in battle, allowing the warrior to harness their potential and fight with confidence and skillfully. Here are some tips to enhance your skills:

• Start with the easy one: If you’re a beginner, start with the easiest technique. It’s a good idea indeed!

• Stay focused and aware: Whether you’re a beginner or have some experience, you must be aware of your surroundings so that you don’t hurt yourself or others. 

• Play like a fighter: If you really want to learn some of the best lightsaber fighting styles, you really need to think of a real fighter(keeping in mind that you do not hurt your opponent).  

• Read your opponent’s movement: A crucial step in a duel is reading and analyzing your fellow combatant movements. It will help you anticipate their actions and adapt your strategy accordingly. 

• Use basic fencing techniques: Techniques like feint can help you launch one or more fake attacks. Incorporating such techniques will make your battle more strategic and enjoyable. 

• Discover the potential of your lightsaber: Your lightsaber is not just a mere weapon with some electronic inside it. It’s even cooler than you think. Learn about its components and how you can use it to the fullest. 

• Practice: Practice makes a man perfect. Be it any skill, you need to practice to become a master consistently. 

• Keep your comfort zone out: Once you are proficient at a particular style, you must move to another to stay out of your comfort zone. 

• Stay calm: Thankfully, it’s not a world war that you need to fight. So, stay calm and focused. 

• Ensure safety: Ensure the safety of yourself, your opponent, and the people around you. 

• Use lightsaber accessories: Lightsaber accessories don't only elevate your experience but also enhance your skills. 

When you step onto the battlefield, you'll learn and discover new strategies that will help you grow as a warrior. 

To be a successful combatant, you need a blade ingeniously crafted to meet your specific needs and work in your favor, much like Luke Skywalker's saber, which found its way to him. A well-designed weapon can be your greatest ally, enhancing your abilities and ensuring victory.

Choose Your Force: Choose Your Lightsaber!

Now that you have a solid understanding of the best styles of lightsaber fighting, all you need is the perfect saber to start your journey. At ARTSABERS, you can find the lightsaber of your dreams that meets your preferences. Whether you're captivated by the elegance of the Jedi or drawn to the fierce power of the Sith, we offer a wide variety of lightsabers to suit your needs. 

Explore our collection today and find your ideal blade. We have options for every purpose, including lightsabers for beginners, heavy dueling blades, collectibles, highly customizable sabers, and more! Start your path to mastery with the perfect lightsaber from ARTSABERS.

May the Force be with you!