Lightsaber
Combat Guide
Basic Information
The noble weapon of the Jedi, a symbol of a more simple time, a versatile and elegant tool for precise mayhem. time, a versatile and elegant tool for precise mayhem. The Lightsaber serves as an extension of the Jedi's will. The Lightsaber serves as an extension of the Jedi's will, sometimes, their only friend, their only salvation. The sometimes, their only friend, their only salvation. The Lightsaber often means the difference between life and Lightsaber often means the difference between life and death.
death.The saber itself is deceptively easy to operate. To turn it
The saber itself is deceptively easy to operate. To turn it on often requires just the touch of a button. But to
on often requires just the touch of a button. But to swing it, the gyroscopic effect throws off all but those
swing it, the gyroscopic effect throws off all but those who have trained long and hard in study. Using such a who have trained long and hard in study. Using such a weapon effectively, much less with any grace or style, weapon effectively, much less with any grace or style, requires many years of constant work and practice.requires many years of constant work and practice.
Through the ages, many different styles and forms of combat proved themselves effective on the battlefields. combat preved themselves effective on the battlefields. These forms became codified and were then taught to eager students, who carried on the tradition. The Jedi eager students, who carried on the tradition. The Jedi were known for having a curriculum of seven forms, were known for having a curriculum of seven forms, numbered accordingly. This selection of forms had numbered accordingly. This selection of forms had changed throughout history for various reasons, new changed throughout history for various reasons, new forms being created or forgotten as necessary.
This saber guide will discuss the seven Forms of the Jedi as well as several ancient forms, as well as some that were as well as several ancient forms, as well as some that were always the forms of the Side adherents, always the forms of the Side adherents.
The forms are broken down into three categories:
Core, Advanced, and Elite.
The Core Forms (Shii-Cho, Makashi, and Soresu) are easier to learn, and crucial to understand before moving on to more difficult forms. The Advanced forms (Ataru, Djem So, Niman)
The Advanced forms (Ataru, Djem So, Niman, and Dun Moch) build on the basics that a student has
learned with their study of the Core forms. The techniques are more specialized, the forms far more
techniques are more specialized, the forms far more complex and dangerous.
But even these do not represent the highest pinnacle of lightsaber combat. The Elite Forms (Shien, Jar'Kai, Vaapad Niman, Sokan, Juyo, and Trakata) refine a student's ability even further than previously thought possible. Only the most dedicated, and most talented practitioners of the of the Order have mastered these forms, and they wield their weapons with such perfection that it is both terrifying and wondrous to behold. This is the perfection to which the saber enthusiast aspires.
Learning to Use this Guide
For every Style, there will be a box, quite like this one, that will explain the fine points of that
particular form. Each form has requirements which must be met in order to begin training in that particular form. They can be either Character Statistic requirements (STR, INT, etc.), or Style requirements (such as Makashi 3 or Vapaad 4). This same box will also give the names of any famous adherents of the form, and then, it will break down the forms learned Techniques by ranking.
Common abbreviations for this guide are the same as in most role-playing games.
STR = Strength
INT = Intelligence
DEX = Dexterity
WIS = Wisdom
CON = Constitution
CHA = Charisma
Introduction Jedi Lightsaber Guide
As it is in real life, a master of any art, even a Core art, will often best those who have just dabbled in more exotic forms. The dedication and training that one goes through in order to be declared a Master is very thorough, and exceptionally challenging. Those declared as Masters are serious threats indeed.
In the following pages, all of the varied forms known to the Order, including some recently unearthed, will be detailed. In your study of the Saber Combat Arts, there will be many decisions as to which path to follow. Judicious use of this guide may help you decide.
Table Of Contents
Introduction 2 Form Zero 4 The Core Arts:
Shii-Cho 5 Makashi 7 Soresu 9 The Advanced Arts:
Ataru 11 Djem So 13 Niman 15 Vapaad 17
‘
Dun Moch 19 The Elite Forms:
Shien 21 JarKai Niman 23 Sokan 25 Juyo 27 Trakata 29 Lus Ma 31 Custom Saber Construction 32
In order to begin studying an Elite form, the level of understanding in the previous forms must obtained. In order to be tested for Master status of an Elite form, the rank of Jedi Master must first be obtained.
In order to be allowed to use certain weapons, certain ranks must also be achieved.
In order to use a lightsaber, one must first have obtained the rank of Jedi Padawan.
In order to wield a Custom Lightsaber, It is preferred (though not required) one achieved the leve; of Jedi Knight.
In order to make use of two sabers at once, one must have learned a minimum of Jar'Kai.
And the Saber-staff may only be used by those who have reached the understanding of multiple forms, and the Multiphase may be used by Jedi Masters.
At the core of the Jedi's lightsaber training is what the Jedi Master's affectionately call "Form Zero". It was not a true form and therefore never counted among the main seven. In short: it was the act of wielding a lightsaber without the blade. It taught Jedi the symbolic power of a lightsaber and how in many situations its mere presence could prevent a fight. That the threat of violence is sometimes more useful than the actual violence itself.
While in practice it is unheard of for Jedi to even acknowledge Form 0, its message should not be ignored. Even an inactive lightsaber is a powerful tool. It is normal for
Journeymen learn the basics of Form 0 in their initial training with a low-powered lightsaber, called a 'Training Saber' (see sidebar) in order to appreciate the power of a real weapon.
Training Lightsaber
The training lightsaber was developed from the standard lightsaber for use by younger and less experienced students to enable them to begin training with a proper weapon. It is especially useful for training compared to ordinary swords for it perfectly replicates the weight and feel of a real lightsaber without the danger of fatalities during sparring.
The strength of a training lightsaber is greatly reduced compared to a real lightsaber and a glancing blow is far more likely to just leave a severe burn rather than sever a limb. While the after affects of a successful blow are still painful they are almost never fatal except with prolonged contact.
Training sabers have sometimes been used by cocky
Journeymen against more experienced Jedi. Those that survived learned several important lessons. Chief among these is that while the Training saber can parry and block other training sabers, they do not fare so well against regular lightsabers. A regular lightsaber's blade is far more focused and intense and will disrupt a training saber's blade on all but the slightest of blows.
Form I is the oldest lightsaber fighting style and serves as a basis for most of the other forms of lightsaber training. It was the first style developed by the Jedi with the advent of the energy-bladed weapon. Form I consists of a variety of standard duelling manoeuvres that are required before
being able to move into the more difficult fighting styles and the basics are exhibited in the First Circle of most of the other forms. Because of this Form I is often the most misunderstood style.
Many people rush to associate the age and simplicity of Form I with weakness when in fact Shii-Cho is one of the most aggressive of the seven Jedi Arts. What Form I lacks in style and artistry it more than makes up for in brute force and power. It is because it resembles ordinary sword fighting so closely that Shii-Cho is so easy to learn and, indeed, master, however this is far from a weakness and most masters of Form I will tell how they believe this is its greatest strength. Form I is particularly effective when faced with multiple adversaries at once. In a time when many saberists use excessively over stylized forms, the deceptive simplicity of Shii-Cho shines through.
This style utilises relatively basic manoeuvres with very little flash. It is the easiest of all styles to start as many of the manoeuvres are rather intuitive but true mastery requires dedication and practice. While adherents of other forms tend to knock the Form I styles as clumsy and inelegant they cannot deny its effectiveness in combat, Favouring strength over dexterity and strong strikes over light slashes. Form I is a hard art, preferring strong but sudden attacks, and has no parries but several blocks.
FORM I: SHII-CHO
Requirements: STR + CHA > 24
Famous Adherents: Kit Fisto
Techniques:
• First Circle:
Basic Strike, Basic Parry • Second Circle:
Press, Power Attack • Third Circle:
2-Strike Combo, Back Defence, Spinning Slash (Jung Ma) • Fourth Circle:
3-Strike Combo, Target Limb, Target Head, Overpower
• Fifth Circle:
4-Strike Combo, Defensive Velocity, Devastate, Target Weapon
Grip
Shii-Cho utilises what is called a hammer grip where the hands are kept in direct line with the wrists and forearms. Adherents of Form I typically wield two-handed to maximise their strength.
Stance
With legs slightly wider than the shoulders and slightly bent at the knee face the opponent with the hilt close to the dominant side of the waistband with blade extending up and forward at a reasonable angle as shown.
Simplicity
Many warriors throughout history have been proponents of the simplest path. The almost natural gross motor movements inherent to Shii Cho's roots lend itself perfectly to battlefield application of this precept.
As one advances through the ranks of Shii-Cho mastery, many of the strikes and blocks develop an artistic simplicity that elude to a different move. Those facing the Shii-Cho master may take these subtle cues as warning, and expect a differing strike, believing that the coming attack is far more convoluted or complicated than the simple
devastation that is Shii-Cho's strength.
Striking
Keeping the wrist in line with the hand the majority of the Form I power comes from the shoulder and back with the adherent putting all of his weight behind most of the strokes and blocks. This skeletal alignment makes it easier for a student to learn powerful techniques by teaching them to strike with their entire body weight, creating slow but devastatingly powerful strokes.
Blocking
By anticipating an opponent's strike the Form I adherent will literally strike into the opponent's blade. This blocking style can sometimes even push back a weaker opponent's strike and place the adherent back into the offence where this style shines.
Often referred to as 'the duelist form', Form II lightsaber combat is a rarely seen fencing style that emphasizes both finesse and speed. Count Dooku mastered Form II and brought the once-archaic style back into practical use at the dawn of the Clone Wars. It is mainly designed for lightsaber-on-lightsaber dueling and a favourite of master duelists. While it may not be as good against ranged weaponry or multiple opponents it is virtually unstoppable against a single duelist. Like Shii-Cho its age and simplicity have no reflection on its elegance and efficiency in a true lightsaber duel. Some things have always worked, and so long as there are enemies who bear lightsabers, there will be those who choose Makashi.
This quintessential duelling style was developed over generations of Jedi training and was popular during the ancient Sith Wars when Jedi were required to fight Sith in direct one-on-one combat. Eventually Form II rose to the forefront as one of the most elegant methods to defeat the opponent. However with the advent of blaster technology, and the decrease of lightsaber wielders, most followers abandoned Makashi in favour of the more defensive Form III.
While the form praises dexterity over strength it is a very compact and trim form with almost no flourishes and no unnecessary motions. This style is to the point and considered a hard style. The strikes of Makashi rely more upon the inherent damage of the lightsaber over the adherent's strength. This is not to say that strength plays no part in the form, however, as the strength to overcome particularly skilled opponents is still necessary.
FORM II: MAKASHI
Requirements: DEX + INT > 24
Famous Adherents: Darth Tyrannus (Count Dooku)
Techniques:
• First Circle:
Basic Strike, Basic Parry • Second Circle:
Deflect Saber, Riposte
• Third Circle:
2-Strike Combo, “Clear The Path”, Wound
• Fourth Circle:
3-Strike Combo, Target Weapon, Target Limb, Evade Attack • Fifth Circle:
4-Strike Combo, Flurry, Centre Self, Reverse Grip Form*
*upon Mastery of the fifth circle of Makashi, the adherent may reverse his grip on his saber without penalty.
Grip
Held at an angle, the Form II grip has the ring and small finger held tightly with the index and middle fingers loose. The looser the index finger the more confident the user. Customised sabers are often made in a curved hilt shape specifically for the trim strikes of this form, creating a more natural s striking continuum with the style's grip. Form II is almost universally done with one hand on the hilt, the other hand used for balance or open handed attacks.
Stance
With the feet square to the shoulders, the body should be turned at a slight angle away from the opponent, thereby reducing the target for the opponent. The saber arm is closest to the enemy and the blade is held down and slightly forward and away from the body.
Striking
Fast and light, this style relies heavily upon the flexibility of the wrist, the fast mobility of the blade a crucial dynamic in successful application. Tight arcs and fast slashes are used to out manoeuver an opponent.
Parrying
Makashi has very limited blocks, instead relying on parries to deflect an opponent's blade, get their blade within striking distance, and disarm an opponent. By using an opponent's vigour against them the redirection of their weapon, and the strategic placement of their weapon to enable a proper next strike, this form is incredibly effective against other saberists. Due to the form's placement of the saber it is not terribly effective versus ranged weaponry.
The Duellist saber
The most famous of the Form Two adherents tend to use the more ergonomic curved hilt sabers, favoring them for the angle at which the blade follows the arm. Whether or not this aids their fighting is an oft-contested subject. What is known however, is that when a Makashi master decides to pick up the curved Hilt saber as their preferred one, that they rarely, if ever go back to the usual style.
Further, once one gets used to the curved hilt saber, there is an adjustment period when one tries to return to the regular straight hilt. Obelisk warriors sometimes eschew this style for this reason alone… lightsabers are commonly lost or destroyed on the field of battle, and you can not rely upon the small chance that a fallen enemy happens to have such an uncommon variant of an already rare weapon.
Makashi masters have been known to favor Nextor focussing crystals in their lightsabers. This seven pointed crystal found on Geonosis is valued highly by masters of the second and seventh form of saber fighting. When used in the saber, these crystals chaotically change the energy flow of the saber, making it easier for the wielder to parry other saber blades, and give them an advantage in saber locks. Deflecting blaster bolts with such a blade is far less precise and much more difficult, however, as the chaotic 'grain' of the plasma tends to bounce blaster bolts in remarkably unpredictable fashion.
Form II: Makashi
As the technology that enabled blaster fire spread, the Jedi found themselves at a distinct disadvantage. As a result, they found that they had to adapt, creating Soresu. Form III originated as a set of stances and manoeuvres designed to counter incoming blaster fire. As the form developed into a more mainstream combat style it became more popular and eventually progressed into the defensive form it is today. Unlike most other forms Soresu focuses almost exclusively on defence and parries with few attack actions. It has been said that a true master of Soresu would be virtually invincible.
While a master of Soresu might never be able to win against a superior duellist they would almost never lose, as their dedication to their own defense ensured their survival. It has been said that the only reason any Jedi survived the Clone Wars at all was due to Soresu. They certainly did not win, but the impossibly strong defensive styles of Form III meant many evaded defeat.
Soresu is considered a hard form in regards to its staccato motions. Sometimes derided as anachronistic by young padawans who favor flashier styles like Vapaad, the more
FORM III: SORESU
Requirements: CON + WIS > 24
Famous Adherents: Obi-Wan Kenobi Luminara Unduli, Barriss Offee
Techniques:
• First Circle:
Basic Strike, Basic Parry
tactically inclined people recognize the value in mastering Soresu.
• Second Circle:
Evade Attack
Deflect Blaster Bolt,
• Third Circle:
Defence Velocity, Press,
Mobile Defence • Fourth Circle:
2-Strike Combo, "Dance
Between Blasts", Defended Strike, Defensive Roll
• Fifth Circle:
3-Strike Combo, Riposte,
Target Weapon, Return Blaster Fire Form III: Soresu Jedi Lightsaber Guide
Grip
Held aggressively, the Form III grip is typically held one handed, the hand high on the grip to allow for the quick defence necessary from the form.
Stance
Pointing the lead foot at the opponent(s), the Soresu adherent will turn his body slightly, aligning his back foot's side toward the heel of the lead. Lowering his center of gravity, the Soresu master will often raise his off hand to counter-balance.
Striking
Slow on the attack but very vibrant and quick on the defence, this form relies on the near constant use of defence arcs to deflect blaster bolts, the attacks being crafted in the same arcs, as a natural part of the defence.
Defense
The defence of this form is inherent in the constant manoeuvring of the blade, really just bounding an opponent's attacks off at odd angles, which sometimes will cause them to be placed in an awkward overextended position which the Soresu adherent will readily take advantage of.
The Deflecting saber
Soresu and Djem So adherents often prefer to utilize Jenruax focussing crystals in their lightsabers. This smokey colored and rare Nova focussing crystal is valued highly by masters, for the Beam, when attuned with a Upari Nova crystal, produces a blade that aids the deflection of blaster bolts to such a fine control that it makes aiming the deflected bolts much easier. When used in the saber, these crystals 'smooth' the energy flow of the saber, making it easier for the wielder to precisely ricochet the bolts. Sadly, the 'smooth' nature of the saber blade does make the locking of sabers much more difficult, as the opponent's blade can shuffle along the Jenruax blade much easier than the average blade would permit.
In this day and age, there are those who do not believe that they have to worry about duelling someone at such a range, and prefer the enhanced targeting precision offered by such a combination. The choice is each individual, ultimately. Choose wisely for yourself.
Form IV: Ataru
Form IV is an acrobatic form that allows the combatant to
Form IV is an acrobatic form that allows the combatant to draw upon his or her athletic prowess to outmaneuver draw upon his or her athletic prowess to outmanoeuvre an opponent. Developed in a more violent time, Form IV developed as a more aggressive style than most other developed as a more aggressive style than most other forms, to reflect the inherent danger a Jedi had to face
forms, to reflect the inherent danger a Jedi had to face during those days. A successful master of Ataru relies on during those days. A successful master of Ataru relies on his or her dexterity and speed and a master almost never his or her dexterity and speed and a master almost never stops moving during battle.
stops moving during battle.
Though there are no fatal blows available to practitioners of Ataru, Form IV forgoes power in favour of wearing an of Ataru, Form IV forgoes power in favour of wearing an opponent down gradually with a barrage of high speed, opponent down gradually with a barrage of high speed, rapid attacks. It is especially effective against single rapid attacks. It is especially effective against single opponents where it can often be impossible to hope to opponents where it can often be impossible to hope to keep up with the movements of a master. In general Form IV is equally effective against lightsaber and ranged
IV is equally effective against lightsaber and ranged opponents.
Ataru is considered a soft art due to its flowing and flexible nature. The Ataru adherent attempts to
flexible nature. The Ataru adherent attempts to overwhelm their opponent with constant attacks and deft
overwhelm their opponent with constant attacks and deft acrobatics, relying heavily upon distraction and dexterity acrobatics, relying heavily upon distraction and dexterity to wear their opponent down enough so that they may be to wear their opponent down enough so that they may be apprehended with ease.
apprehended with ease.
FORM IV: ATARU
Requirements: DEX + CHA > 30, Makashi 3/5, Soresu 3/5
Famous Adherents: Yoda, Qui-Gon Jinn, Aayla Secura, Quinlan Vos
Techniques:
• First Circle:
Basic Strike, Basic Parry
This form, sadly does leave something to be desired in
• Second Circle:
Bound, 2-Strike Combo
This form, sadly does leave something to be desired in the defense category, relying more upon their consistent the defense category, relying more upon their consistent and ever-present attacks more than attempting to defend and ever-present attacks more than attempting to defend themselves. This translates into often leaving oneself themselves. This translates into often leaving oneself open, over-committed to their own attack, and open to open, over-committed to their own attack, and open to counter attack. Many times, a saberist will compliment counter attack. Many times, a saberist will compliment this form with the defensive abilities of another style to this form with the defensive abilities of another style to round themselves out more.
• Third Circle:
3-Strike Combo, Feigned Strike, Offensive Roll
• Fourth Circle:
4-Strike Combo, Chaotic Strike, "Flurry", Offensive Flip
• Fifth Circle:
5-Strike Combo, "Tornado" Spinning Attack, Airborne Flurry, Reverse Grip Form*
*upon Mastery of the fifth circle of Ataru, the adherent may reverse his grip on his saber without penalty.
IV
Form IV: Ataru Jedi Lightsaber Guide
Changing Your Mind
It is known that the Jedi Obi-Wan Kenobi, a hero of the Clone Wars, for the Old Republic originally trained in Ataru under his Master, Qui-Gon Jinn. It was noted that Kenobi was nearing mastery of the form when he bore witness to the pitfalls of the art as concerning defense. As his master fell to the blade of Darth Maul, Obi-Wan discovered this hard lesson. After returning to the temple, Kenobi cast aside his training in Ataru and began the study of Soresu, becoming one of the masters of that more defensive form.
The lesson we have to learn from the Jedi is that one should not be overly dedicated to any one art and succumb to the stagnation that comes with it. Do not feel as if you must complete any one form to master.
Grip
Held in an almost relaxed grip, the Ataru stylist changes his grip based upon the manoeuvre. In general the flexibility in the grip is achieved by using half of the fingers held loosely and the other half held tightly, allowing for easy spins and slices.
Stance
The standard ready stance of Ataru is quite literally standing there. Some masters prefer to turn slightly sideways and bring their saber up in a gesture to show that they are ready, a mark of respect.
Striking
This form is very dynamic and somewhat aggressive. The form calls for a near constant attack stream, relying upon the saberists speed and persistence to overwhelm their enemy's defences. Many acrobatic stunts are used to help catch the enemy off guard and to find gaps in their defences that the Form IV adherents can access.
Defence
Unfortunately the constantly whirling attacks prove to leave the adherent somewhat undefended at many times and occasionally overextended. The major reason Jedi Master Yoda was able to use this form so effectively was because his small frame made him naturally more difficult to strike. A larger adherent would likely find the weak defences of Form IV a liability.
Form V: DJEM SO
V
The Form known as Djem So was pieced together by Jedi wishing to utilize the advantages of increased defense of Soresu, yet maintain the edge in duelling situations through Shii-Cho techniques.
Form V stems from a desire for more power when
Form V stems from a desire for more power when duelling with a lightsaber but its origins can actually
duelling with a lightsaber but its origins can actually be traced to the Form III style rather than the physical be traced to the Form III style rather than the physical strength of Form I. The style is based on a philosophy of peace through superior strength. Form V focuses on turning an enemy's own strength against him and on turning an enemy's own strength against him and then following with overwhelming force. It seeks to perfect the art of blaster bolt redirection and is thought of by some as the best defence against any threat.
Instead of merely learning to deflect an enemy's attacks at odd angles, Djem So students learn how to
attacks at odd angles back at them. It is especially effective when used against multiple , particularly when they are using blaster weaponry. Djem So is an efficient all around form
FORM V: Djem So
Requirements: STR + INT > 30, Shii-Cho 3/5, Soresu 3/5
Famous Adherents: Darth Vader (Anakin Skywalker), Plo Koon, Luke Skywalker
Techniques:
• First Circle:
Basic Strike, Basic Parry
with few weaknesses. with few weaknesses.
• Second Circle:
Offensive Flip
Return Blaster Fire,
Given its nature it is no surprise an adherent of Djem
• Third Circle:
3-Strike Combo, "Flurry",
Given its nature it is no surprise an adherent of Djem So will nearly always have perfected the art of Soresu
So will nearly always have perfected the art of Soresu before learning how to redirect attacks. Djem So
Defended Strike • Fourth Circle:
4-Strike Combo, Target
before learning how to redirect attacks. Djem So adherents often persue their mastery of the form with
Limb, Defensive Velocity, Offensive Flip adherents often persue their mastery of the form with great fervor, even among the ranks of the Jedi.
• Fifth Circle:
5-strike Combo, "Tornado"
great fervor, even among the ranks of the Jedi.
Spinning Attack, "Dance Between Blasts", Aggressive Flurry
Grip
Held high on the hilt, this form alternates between tight and loose grips, sometimes even incorporating hand changes and reverse grips.
Stance
The standard ready stance of Djem So borrows from Ataru in that a ready stance is usually deemed unnecessary. Turning sideways is typically done to lower the target profile for their opponent.
Striking
The saber of a Djem So stylist is always in motion. Using the powerful attacks of Form I, yet incorporating the stricter defence vectors of Soresu, this form is terribly demanding in its physicality.
Defense
Relying upon defensive strokes to defend themselves both from saber and blaster, this form sacrifices some of the overwhelming attacks of Form I to defend better. The Soresu components serve well. A typical Djem So adherent will try to bounce back an opponent's attack to take advantage of their incongruous motion.
The Side and Djem So
The very aggressive nature of Djem So are the result of the times of it's invention. A war-time construct, this Form saved countless Jedi in combat. Unfortunately for the Jedi, the violent nature of the form places a strong need for emotional restraint on it's adherents if they are to avoid the Side of the Force.
The most famous adherents of Djem So were both Jedi, and both fell to the Side of the Force at times throughout their career. Anakin and his son, Luke, both exhibited the unfettered rage of the Side, drawing upon it to win battles. Why the Jedi Council continued to teach this form in times of peace is not known, but it is known that it did not aid them much throughout the Jedi Purge.
In the hands of a Jedi of the Jedi, one can only guess how well the style will
perform.
Form V: Djem So
V
Form VI is a consolidation of many of the lessons taught by Forms I, III, IV and V. It was the most common style in use during the early days of the Clone Wars. Form VI does not require the intensity of many other forms but rather seeks to create harmony between all the other styles. It was sometimes referred to as the "diplomat's form" because its study allowed time for the pursuit of other fields such as politics, negotiation, and diplomacy.
The history of Niman is unusual given its origins in a dual wielded variant that continued to be practised remotely into the last days of the Jedi Order. With
Today, those who prefer to avoid combat, and feel that their time is best spent in learning other aspects of the Force besides combat are encouraged to learn Niman.
FORM VI: NIMAN
Requirements: CON + CHA > 30,
Shii-Cho 3/5, Soresu 3/5
Famous Adherents: Coleman Trebor
Techniques:
• First Circle:
Basic Strike, Basic Parry
time the Jedi abandoned the aggressive practices of the older variant of Niman. During these old times,
• Second Circle: Deflect
Defensive Flip
Blaster Fire,
many years would be spent in study of the other
• Third Circle:
Evade, Avoid Attack,
forms, in an attempt to better round out the training of an individual Jedi.
Defended Strike • Fourth Circle: 3
-Strike Combo, Target
Limb, Defensive Velocity, Evasive roll
• Fifth Circle: 4
-strike Combo, Target
After the conflicts ended, and combat became less of a focal point to a Jedi's training, the hard study of the various saber forms declined, and was codified into this very dtreamlined, and relatively easy to learn form. This freed up time to spend pursuing other studies as already said. In many ways modern Form VI is ideal for any situation because its diversity allows a master the freedom to adapt. In the recent past many Jedi chose Form VI because it did not require the rigorous training regime to master as many of the other forms, Instead relying upon their negotiation skills to avoid the actual violence of combat. This did not serve them well throughout the Clone Wars, as every single Jedi practitioner of Form VI present at the Battle of Geonosis was slain.
Weapon, "Dance Between Blasts", Reflect Blaster Fire
Grip
Held in the middle of the hilt, this form alternates between several variations of handgrips, based upon the component styles.
Stance
The standard ready stance of Niman borrows from Soresu in that a turns sideways and lowers themselves slightly. Different from Soresu, Niman practitioners keep their weak arm angled toward their opponent, a slight modification in stance that Jedi Consulars believe makes a person more likely to surrender and listen to reason..
Striking
The saber of a Niman adherent moves only to defend, and to strike only when pressed in ways that would not kill, but nevertheless removes the opponent's threat.
Defence
Relying upon defensive strokes to defend themselves both from saber and blaster, this form sacrifices much of it's defensive ability when used as a secondary to the practitioner's negotiation skills.
Light-Whips
This is a form of whip that employs light energy to stun a target as well as lash out and cause wounds. The standard lightwhip is designed to harness energy around an extremely tough and resilient alloy core, often made out of a rare metal such as Mandalorian Iron. The product is a flexible energy whip typically somewhere between 2.5 to 4.5 meters in length.
The lightwhip has a number of practical advantages over more traditional weaponry. Its most apparent benefit, however, is its immunity to Cortosis alloys giving a lightwhip adherent a significant advantage over standard lightsaber duellists. Though this level of skill requires years of training and beginners are as much a danger to themselves as to those around them.
For this reason alone lightwhip practitioners are rare, more so even than the limited adherents of the double bladed lightsaber variants. The real difficulty with the lightwhip, other than the self preservation factor, comes with its construction. They are exceedingly costly, requiring a number of focussing crystals embedded throughout the alloy core, all of which must be aligned precisely to ensure the weapon functions correctly.
More experienced adherents often even build numerous cores into their weapon, creating an extremely potent weapon with a number of energy thongs. This style of weapon was seen in the hands of Lumiya, one of the Sith trained by Darth Vader. Githany, one of the Sith Lords from the Order of ness shortly before the Battle of Ruusan, also used a lightwhip, though one of the more basic single cored variants. They were occasionally used by Jedi, Kit Fisto being one such example.
Lightwhips are considered exceedingly rare, let alone the very dangerous prospect of learning to fight with one, which is a feat probably best reserved for Masters of the Jedi Arts.
Form VI: Niman
VI
Form VII, the chosen style of Mace Windu, is among the most difficult styles to master. It is one of unpredictable movements and direct assaults, constantly throwing opponents off guard thanks to continual and seemingly unconnected movements. Still being developed by the style's masters, Form VII is composed of many paradoxes and other difficult concepts for students to grasp, and as a result, it has many fewer students than other styles.
In the Old Republic there were only ever two known masters of Vapaad other than Mace Windu, who developed it, Depa Bilaba and Sora Bulq. Vapaad focuses almost exclusively on combat manoeuvres and wavers dangerously close to the side, for Jedi practitioners. It should be noted that both Depa Bilaba and Sora Bulq fell to the side soon after mastering Vapaad. The key to Form VII is speed and a true master can move so fast they virtually become a blur.
Vapaad has its roots in Juyo which filled the role of Form VII during the ancient Sith Wars. When peace was restored many deemed Juyo too violent to remain a part of the Jedi Arts permanently and it was forgotten. Vapaad was developed as the new Form VII by Mace Windu during the twilight of the Jedi Order to counter the increasing instability of the ailing Republic.
Form VII is a difficult path to tread for even the most powerful Force users, and has been regarded as a dangerous choice for many Jedi. For the Order, Vapaad is an old stand-by.
FORM VII: Vapaad
Requirements: DEX + WIS > 30, Makashi 3/5, Soresu 3/5
Famous Adherents: Mace Windu, Depa Bilaba, Sora Bulq
Techniques:
• First Circle:
Basic Strike, Basic Parry
• Second Circle:
3-Strike Combo, Evade • Third Circle:
4-Strike Combo, Center Self, Overpower
• Fourth Circle:
5-Strike Combo, Aggressive Flurry, Chaotic Strike, False Hope*
• Fifth Circle:
6-Strike Combo, "Tornado" spinning attack, Precise Targeting, Devastate, Block Glide*
*Vapaad Students who have attained the fifth rank of Makashi have access to special Vapaad techniques otherwise unworkable. This training gives them the specialized Vapaad techniques marked with a *. Students of Vapaad that have not yet bothered to master Makashi do not have access to these techniques.
Grip
Held high on the hilt, this form alternates between tight and loose grips, sometimes even incorporating hand changes and reverse grips. The typical is to hold the first two fingers loosely, with the last two fingers and thumb held tight to facilitate the swirling strokes.
Stance
Vapaad, it is said, needs no stances, as the Force guides them to where they must be. A common thing among adherents is a slight bending at the knee, permitting the Form VII master the capacity to spring suddenly if need be.
Striking
One might expect that the saber of a Form VII adherent to be constantly moving. One would be wrong. The Vapaad stylist's saber only moves to strike or to block. The moves are very erratic and staccato, snapping to position almost instantly. This staccato rhythm adds to their strong defence as it is terribly difficult to read a Vapaad master's attacks.
Defence
Vapaad relies upon the speed of the adherent's responses, augmented as they may be by the Force, to block strikes. Less concerned with forcing an opponent's blade back and off balance than other forms, the Vapaad master prefers to stop the attack, then leave them hanging there and attack around their weapon in a wicked riposte.
Dual-Phase Lightsabers
The dual-phase lightsaber is an extremely rare variant that incorporates an adjustable blade of two distinct lengths, often of different colours. It is usual for the second length to be longer, if not double, the length of the ordinary blade, though there is nothing preventing the user from aligning the crystals in order for the second blade to be of appreciably shorter length.
The use of a dual-phase lightsaber should not be taken lightly and they typically require intensive training to be used efficiently. Like many of the more common lightsaber variants such as the double bladed variety a dual-phase lightsaber can be more a danger to the adherent than his opponent if he is inexperienced in its use. This is especially true for extended blades where the additional length can make the weapon ungainly and awkward to wield properly during combat. In the past many who have built dual-phase lightsabers have come to reconsider their usefulness and taken to using the extended blade more for purposes outside combat than during a duel.
The weapons are rare primarily due to the rarity of the focussing crystals required in their construction. The variable phase emitter means the crystals must be able to handle much greater power outputs and be constructed with a level of precision far greater than even that needed for an ordinary lightsaber. Examples of dual-phase lightsabers have been used by Jedi and Sith alike including Exar Kun, Darth Vader and Corran Horn.
VII
Dun Moch is more a state of mind than a complete form of lightsaber combat. Its name roughly translates from ancient Sith into "domination of the mind" and, for obvious reasons, was never used by members of the Jedi Order. Rumour has it Dun Moch was the chosen form of both Darth Tyrannus and Darth Vader.
The basis of Dun Moch is to break an opponent. It incorporates a number of taunts and gestures, and particular applications of the Force are also built in to some of the manoeuvres. Like most Sith practices it relies heavily on the side and is far more Force heavy than any of the basic Jedi Arts, except perhaps Vapaad.
In many ways Dun Moch resembles Makashi for it was developed primarily with the thought of duelling Jedi in mind. Dun Moch incorporates a number of different techniques but specialises in tricking an opponent into making fatal mistakes. A number of feints form a core part of the teachings of Dun Moch.
The Dual Phase Lightsaber is used to change the saber in mid-duel, helping to confuse their enemy. Used in conjunction with armor, and while using the Force to further frighten or intimidate their prey, all while Battering their assailant with saber, and telekinetically mobilized objects, the Dun Moch adherent glories in his ability to bring his assailants down before him in fear.
ANCIENT FORM: DUN MOCH Requirements: 5/5 Makashi, 200 Force Points
Famous Adherents: Darth Vader
Techniques:
• First Circle:
Basic Paradigms
• Second Circle:
Defensive Roll, Mid-Strike Hand Change
• Third Circle:
6-Strike Combo, Distract, Batter
• Fourth Circle:
Defensive Back Flip, Chaotic Attack, Intimidation, False Hope* • Fifth Circle:
Aggressive Flurry, Telekinetic Crush, Devastate, Overbear*
*These Dun Moch techniques are only available to those adherents who possess a Dual-Phase lightsaber.
Stance
With feet square to the shoulders, the body should be turned at a slight angle away from the opponent, thereby reducing the target for the opponent. The saber arm is closest the enemy, and the blade is held down and slightly forward and away from the body.
Striking
Fast and light, this style relies heavily upon the flexibility of the wrist, the fast mobility of the blade a crucial dynamic in successful application. Tight arcs and fast slashes are used to out manoeuvre an opponent with minimal strain on the user, a boon for those who have limited manoeuvrability due to age, handicap, or just those ungifted in stamina.
Parrying
This form has very limited blocks, instead relying on parries to deflect an opponent's blade, get their blade within striking distance and disarm an opponent. By using these tactics, as well as aggressive and judicious use of the Force to break an opponent, a Dun Moch master has little trouble with most opponents.
Cortosis
The Cortosis molecule is a fascinating material. Cortosis has unique properties in regards to lightsaber blades, making it a sought after commodity. Cortosis ore in its native state is quite rare. Cortosis can be woven into arms and armor, as well as structural elements. Much discussion has taken place over the use of Cortosis, a rare ore that is known to be able to withstand the incredible heat and cutting power of a lightsaber. Many rumours have risen out of the mythical metal, and many have a limited understanding of its use. Prime among the rumours is that Cortosis can stand up against a saber blade. This is not entirely true. The refined version of the material has the unique ability to de-harmonize a lightsaber blade, causing it to shut down temporarily. The blade can be re-ignited, but it does take some energy to do so. The mineral matrix of unrefined cortosis ore is damaged by the contact with the blade. A refined version of the ore exists, which is merely resistant to lightsaber blades. However, further refined cortosis has fewer impurities and is therefore not as severely affected by the contact.
Known locales for the occurrence of the natural mineral include Bespin, Niruan, Kintan and Yinchorr. There are other unconfirmed sites as well.
Further, while Cortosis was pretty common in the days of the Sith Lords, the metal was hunted and destroyed with fervor during the Old Republic years. This caused the availability of the metal to plummet, and the price of minuscule amounts to skyrocket.
It is a well known fact that the Council confiscates any Cortosis that comes into the possession of the Orders members.
The variant form known as Shien is a rarely seen style
The variant form known as Shien is a rarely seen style that, while effective, is almost a topic of controversy
that, while effective, is almost a topic of controversy among lightsaber masters due to the drastically
among lightsaber masters due to the drastically different grip taught by practitioners of the form. The
different grip taught by practitioners of the form. The style calls for the Jedi to hold the lightsaber horizontally with the tip of the blade out away from the body, and all strikes are made by sweeping the arm forward as strikes are made by sweeping the arm forward as though throwing a punch while whipping the blade forward quickly in a broad arc.
Shien originated back in the early, violent days of the Old Republic. Formulated as yet another style to
Old Republic. Formulated as yet another style to combat the enemies of the Jedi, this violent art was
combat the enemies of the Jedi, this violent art was quickly thrown to obscurity once the Jedi Council
quickly thrown to obscurity once the Jedi Council discovered the way that this form would lead astray
discovered the way that this form would lead astray their knights. Kept alive by historians among the order,
their knights. Kept alive by historians among the order, it was generally only tought to those who would not
it was generally only tought to those who would not likely see combat, and risk the fall to the Side.
likely see combat, and risk the fall to the Side. Adi Gallia was one of the few Jedi around the time of
Adi Gallia was one of the few Jedi around the time of the Clone Wars known to actively practice the form, , as was the Anzati Jedi called Nikkos Tyris. With their deaths, so too did Shien's practices die to the Jedi.
deaths, so too did Shien's practices die to the Jedi.
The Jedi rediscovered this lost art, catalogued in a holocron, several years ago, and have
catalogued in a holocron, several years ago, and have been gladly teaching the aggressive style to their most been gladly teaching the aggressive style to their most eager students. The overly violent methodology, combined with the forms contempt for defense make it a natural for the Side Jedi of the Order..
ANCIENT FORM: SHIEN
Requirements: 4/5 Djem So, DEX >15
Famous Adherents: Nikkos Tyrus, Adi Gallia, Asajj Ventress
Techniques:
First Circle:
Basic Strike, Basic Block, Reverse Grip
Second Circle:
5-Strike Combo, Evade Third Circle:
Aggressive Flurry, Center Self, Offensive Flip
Fourth Circle:
6-Strike Combo, "Tornado" Spinning Attack, Defensive Roll, Flashsweep*, Hewing˜ Fifth Circle:
Lock Reversal, Defensive Slice, Devastate, 7-strike Combo*, Scissor-walk˜
* If a student of Shien has mastered the style of Shii-Cho (5/5), they may begin training in Dual Sabers for this form. This training gives them the specialized Shien techniques marked with a *. Students of Shien that have not yet bothered to master Shii-Cho do not have access to these techniques.
~ If a student of Shien has mastered the Soresu and Djem So forms, they may begin specialized Shien Saber-Staff techniques marked with a ~.
Grip
Held backwards, the hand is clenched in a fist around the saber hilt, with the blade extending away from the body.
Stance
The Shien Practicioner will bring their hands up, so that their saber blades emit down and away from their body,turning slightly off square to their opponent.
Striking
The Shien slash is delivered much like a typical punch, but with a flexing of the wrist at the last second which tilts their knuckles inward, bringing the blade to bear very rapidly upon their target. This style of attacking often will confuse saberists unfamiliar with the form, and that confusion is taken advantage of by the Shien practitioner.
Defence
Shien's methodology of holding the saber, unfortunately wreaks havok on it's defense. With the alignment of the blade, the time it takes to bring the sabers to cover their vulnerable body from blaster bolts is far too long. Against
another saberist, the Shien practitioner still does well, in that their constant attacks often leave their assailant no opportunity to do anything but defend themselves.
Reverse Grip Duelling
The use of an inverted grip is a rare but effective means of outsmarting and
overpowering an opponent. It essentially sacrifices all forward defence for speed and wide striking attacks. The technique is particularly useful against multiple opponents. It was the basis for much of the Shien form but was also common among other circles.
While not requiring any particular or special variation in the lightsaber itself it was not uncommon for practitioners of this technique to make use of curved hilts. The added angle of the blade often gave adherents a considerable advantage and more range to their swings. The reversed grip forgoes virtually any forward deflection and parrying ability in order to focus purely on offence. Many adherents also incorporated
conventional blades on their hilts in order to both punch, and stab, as well as strike with the lightsaber blade itself. The reverse grip was also often combined with Jar'Kai in order to confuse an opponent with a mixture of backhanded and offhanded attacks.
Another uncommon form called Jar'Kai Niman is a style often taught in the Jedi Order but rarely mastered by more than a few Jedi each generation. Jar'Kai Niman teaches the use of two lightsabers simultaneously, which can be used as a pair of offensive weapons, or as an offensive weapon and a parrying blade. Many
as an offensive weapon and a parrying blade. Many Jedi study the basics of Jar'Kai Niman, and such
Jedi study the basics of Jar'Kai Niman, and such rudimentary training has often been the edge needed
rudimentary training has often been the edge needed to prevail over a foe.
Mention should be given to the difference between this form of Niman and the modern version of Form VI by the same name. The modern form has its origins rooted in this version of Niman but, after obtaining
rooted in this version of Niman but, after obtaining widespread popularity, the form began to become
widespread popularity, the form began to become customised to the particular interests of the Jedi training in it. Unlike the modern form of Niman, which was largely used by Jedi Knights during peacetime, the
was largely used by Jedi Knights during peacetime, the ancient form of Jar'Kai Niman detailed here was
ancient form of Jar'Kai Niman detailed here was developed with memories of the Sith Wars in mind.
developed with memories of the Sith Wars in mind. "Jar'Kai" itself translates loosely to "two blades", and is
"Jar'Kai" itself translates loosely to "two blades", and is used when discussing the elder Niman, for ease of
used when discussing the elder Niman, for ease of discussion.
discussion.
Jar'Kai Niman was mostly popular among the true swordsmen of the Jedi Order. In its heyday people like
swordsmen of the Jedi Order. In its heyday people like Master Kavar were renowned for their knowledge of
Jar'Kai Niman and, in the last years of the Jedi Order, weapon masters such as Cin Drallig obtained fame from their proficiency with such specialist forms.
ANCIENT FORM: JAR'KAI NIMAN Requirements: 4/5 Niman, WIS >15
Famous Adherents: Nikkos Tyrus, Adi Gallia, Asajj Ventress
Techniques:
• First Circle:
Basic Strike, Basic Parry, Dual Wielding
• Second Circle:
6-Strike Combo, Aggressive Velocity
• Third Circle:
7-Strike Combo, Double Flurry, Defensive Velocity
• Fourth Circle:
8-Strike Combo, Whirlwind Attack (Double-Tornado), Aggressive Flurry, Shred
• Fifth Circle:
9-Strike Combo, Two Heavens, Devastate, Reverse Grip Form
Grip
Held with the first two fingers loosely and the last two fingers and thumb tight to facilitate the swirling manner of the form. The hand is typically placed in the centre of the grip.
Stance
With the feet squared beneath the shoulders the body is turned at a slight angel from the enemy, with the dominant shoulder back, the saber held up with the arm parallel to the ground, and the elbow bent. The off hand saber is held out in front of the body, typically at an angle to help defend the adherent.
Jar'Kai
Striking
Almost universally using the strength of the dominant arm, Niman adherents strike forward after the off hand has typically parried away the opponent's defences, leaving the opponent open. In some cases the off hand attacks in tandem with the dominant hand, overbearing the opponent.
Defence
The off hand saber is typically used to block and push back an opponent's' strike, leaving a window of opportunity wide open for counter attack. Against the overhead strike it is commonly taught for the adherent to catch the blade in an 'X' block of their own sabers, locking the opponent's blade and allowing them to press down on their opponent.
The method of wielding two weapons at once carried over from more traditional swords to lightsabers and became what is now the variant style of Form VI called Niman. The term Jar'Kai is less an official definition of the form and more a nickname given to it by most historians of the Jedi Arts.
The use of two lightsabers at once is, for obvious reasons, far more difficult than the art of wielding a single blade. It requires a far greater level of dedication and commitment in order to master to avoid it being more a liability to the adherent than a benefit. However a fully trained master of Jar'Kai is able to make full use of one weapon for parrying and ripostes while the other remains fully on the attack. This technique can easily overpower most opponents only skilled in wielding a single blade.
Despite the popularity of Jar'Kai it was a technique rarely mastered by members of the Jedi Order. Most Jedi Knights received at least some training in order to cope with using two lightsabers simultaneously should the need ever arise but few went on to master the Niman form. Kavar and Cin Drallig are two known masters of Jar'Kai along with Anakin Skywalker who was a mild practitioner of the style. It was also used to some extent by Asajj Ventress, the disciple of Darth Tyrannus.
Sokan, originating during the Sith Wars, is a very dynamic form, with wide sweeping movements, and long maneuvers. A battle fought with Sokan would span an entire battlefield, using the entire terrain as their defense. Sokan scholars are tought how to use their opponent's brash movements against them, setting their enemies up for their own demise.
Sokan is a style that focuses on mobility and evasion as a part of lightsaber duelling. Sokan Practitioners use their own dexterity, coupled with the Force to sense incoming attacks to just simply not be in the way of the opponent's
strikes, utilizing the kinetic motion of their own evasion to whip a retaliatory strike to their assailant. In the time just before the Clone Wars, Sokan warriors integrated many elements of Jedi Master Yoda's highly kinetic use of Form IV into their own ancient techniques to create a blend of styles that relies on mobility and agility.
The style encompasses everything from quick, darting movements to smooth tumbles and strikes that arc toward the vital areas of an opponent's body. Graceful and organic looking, this form often tricks people into thinking that it is not as dangerous as the more aggressive forms of saber fighting. The truth is that Sokan, while not a compact art, is a very efficient one. Seemingly docile maneuvers come chained to unexpected attacks, and oft times, a person beset by Sokan can very obviously see where their death stroke will be coming from, but can do nothing to prevent it, having been thrown off cantor by the style's penchant for disrupting their assailant's own balance and grace.
ANCIENT FORM: SOKAN
ANCIENT FORM: SOKAN Requirements: 4/5 Ataru, INT >15
Requirements: 4/5 Ataru, INT >15
Famous Adherents: Unknown
Famous Adherents: Unknown
Techniques:
Techniques:
• First Circle:
Basic Strike, Basic Parry • Second Circle:
Return Fire, Mid-Strike
• Second Circle:
Return Fire, Mid-Strike Hand Change
Hand Change
• Third Circle:
7-Strike Combo, Distract, Lock Evade
Lock Evade
• Fourth Circle:
Defended Assault, Defensive Roll, Riposte, Overburn*
Defensive Roll, Riposte, Overburn* • Fifth Circle:
Chaotic Strike, Defensive
• Fifth Circle:
Chaotic Strike, Defensive Back Flip, Reverse Grip Form, 8-Strike
Back Flip, Reverse Grip Form, 8-Strike Combo*
Combo*
*If a student of Sokan has mastered the style of
*If a student of Sokan has mastered the style of Makashi (5/5), they may begin training in Dual Sabers
Makashi (5/5), they may begin training in Dual Sabers for this form. This training gives them the specialized Sokan techniques marked with a *. Students of Sokan techniques marked with a *. Students of Sokan that have not yet bothered to master Makashi do not that have not yet bothered to master Makashi do not have access to these techniques. have access to these techniques.
Grip
Held in an almost relaxed grip the Sokan stylist mimics almost exactly the grip of the Ataru form. She changes her grip based upon the manoeuvre. In general the flexibility in the grip is achieved by using half of the fingers held loosely and the other half held tightly allowing for easy spins and slices.
Stance
The standard ready stance of Sokan involves turning slightly sideways with the head slightly cocked own. The classicists still bring their saber up in a gesture to show that they are ready.
Striking
This form is as defensive as Ataru is aggressive. Instead of using the whirling blade to wear down the opponent, however, the Sokan stylist uses the acrobatics to defend himself first then takes the opportunity as it arises to deliver devastating strikes. The form calls for constant motion and great dexterity as well as the stamina to outlast their opponents.
Defence
Sokan has some of the best defence available to a saber wielded. The excessively quick strikes and velocities of this ancient form have the capacity to defend from nearly any angle an opponent could come from.
Balancing Act
Proponents of Sokan study for years the mechanisms of bipedal locomotion. What most people take for granted in how they walk leaves a wide birth of potential for those who know where to look. Small amounts of pressure at the right time, at the right moment can send a sturdy opponent with normally very good balance, sailing to the ground.
Studying where these tiny windows of opportunity are consumes the Sokan practitioners time. As they become more and more well versed in this art, they find ways of parrying attacks in manners that best throw off their opponents rhythm. This is a very useful tactic against those opponent's who might otherwise have the advantage in skill.
This is not an easy set of skills to learn, however, and the Adherents of Sokan realize how small this window can be, so they do not rely upon this tactic alone, instead focussing on the primary goal of getting out of the way of their opponent's strikes.
Juyo was a popular form during the later days of the ancient Sith Wars and continued to gain popularity during the Jedi Civil War. It was one of the most aggressive forms used by the Jedi Order at the time and has only ever been surpassed in terms of brute force by Vapaad. It should be noted that Juyo was the basis for many of the techniques in modern Form VII, with the Jedi Master Mace Windu studying the Ancient Juyo and tempering it for the Jedi's needs, removing many of the overly violent techniques as a control to help avoid the Side.
This variant on Form VII obtained popularity with Sith groups and, was even favoured by the Sith Lord, Darth Maul. Those wishing to pursue the use of the double bladed lightsaber would benefit from training in Juyo for there is no other style of lightsaber combat that accommodates the specialist weapon quite so directly.
The few members of the Jedi Order who chose to construct a double-bladed lightsaber often pursued the rarely studied art of Juyo. In practice however it was one of the rarest of both the Variants and the Jedi Arts.
Acrobatic in ways perhaps better befitting an adherent of Ataru, the wielder of Juyo is a constant blur of motion. Of particular interest is the mentality that is taught to the student: That their entire body is a weapon, not just the saber. As a result, the form incorporates many devastating hand-to-hand techniques in addition to the spinning attacks made necessary by the use of the saber staff. The incorporation of these attacks decreases the amount of time between attacks, as the spins native to Juyo often leave the saber overextended. The kicks and punches help ensure that the saberist stay aggressive to their goal.
ANCIENT FORM: JUYO
Requirements: 4/5 Vapaad, STR >15
Famous Adherents: Darth Maul (Khamier Sarin),
Techniques:
• First Circle:
Basic Strike, Basic Block, Double Bladed Lightsaber basics • Second Circle:
3-Strike Combo, Defensive Velocity
• Third Circle:
4-Strike Combo, Overpower, Target Limb
• Fourth Circle:
5-Strike Combo, Whirlwind Attack (Double-Tornado), Aggressive Flurry, Aggressive Velocity • Fifth Circle:
6-Strike Combo, Block Reversal, Double Flurry, Devastate
Grip
Held high on the hilt, this form alternates between tight and loose grips, sometimes even incorporating hand changes and reverse grips. The typical is to h old the first two fingers loosely, with the last two fingers and thumb held tight to facilitate the swirling strokes. This form, the father form of the heavily modified Vapaad, shares the same grip with the newer form.
Stance
The creators of Vapaad gleaned their policy of no set stances from the older Juyo. Instead, the form is known for relying upon the Force to guide them to advantageous positions. The Juyo adherent needs no stance, rather lashing out like a coiled serpent, to strike without warning.
Striking
The strikes of the Juyo form are fast, elegant, and flowing. Moving from one strike to another, and using their saber blades to cover their wide movements, this form is terrifyingly beautiful to watch. Deceptively graceful, the strikes snap from the whirling blade with stunning celerity and accuracy when needed.
Defence
Juyo has 'showy' manoeuvres built into the strikes, using whirling blades to defend their bodies as they make strikes that would cause other forms to be undefended and overextended.
saber-Staff
saber-Staff
The double bladed lightsaber is quite simply a
The double bladed lightsaber is quite simply a lightsaber with an emitter at either end of the hilt.
lightsaber with an emitter at either end of the hilt. They were popular during the Sith War but fell out
They were popular during the Sith War but fell out of fashion within the Jedi Order as many questioned
of fashion within the Jedi Order as many questioned what need there was for two blades other than to
what need there was for two blades other than to kill more quickly.
kill more quickly.
The use of a double bladed lightsaber requires more intensive training than an ordinary single
more intensive training than an ordinary single bladed weapon and it is rare to see one outside the
bladed weapon and it is rare to see one outside the hands of an adherent of Juyo. They are occasionally
hands of an adherent of Juyo. They are occasionally popular among Soresu and Djem So adherents
popular among Soresu and Djem So adherents given their applications toward blaster bolt given their applications toward blaster bolt deflection. The double bladed lightsaber has been deflection. The double bladed lightsaber has been the choice of weapon by a wide range of people the choice of weapon by a wide range of people including Zez-Kai Eli, Exar Kun and Darth Maul. The weapon is generally more difficult to construct
The weapon is generally more difficult to construct than a standard lightsaber but only so much as it than a standard lightsaber but only so much as it requires two hilts fused together, something that requires two hilts fused together, something that usually causes most double bladed hilts to be considerably larger than ordinary lightsabers. It is considerably larger than ordinary lightsabers. It is possible with more skill and experience to build more compact double bladed variants such as the one used by Exar Kun but this requires more one used by Exar Kun but this requires more precision in order to focus the crystals.
precision in order to focus the crystals.
Trak
ata
Tràkata was fully suppressed by the Jedi Order as one of the biggest perversions of the Jedi Arts because it utilizes the lightsaber for one purpose: death. The technique was developed by the Sith into a complete form of combat that comes full circle from the teachings of Form Zero. Tràkata is one of the most difficult styles to master and has seen few adherents. It is believed
Darth Sidious made substantial use of this form during the Great Jedi Purge.Tràkata has no blocks, no parries, no defenses. The only time a Tràkata adherent will ignite the blade is to land a killing blow. It is a physically demanding style for the rest of the time the adherent will employ a combination of Force powers and hand-to-hand techniques together with other lightsaber forms they may know.
For a lightsaber form Tràkata is unique in that it shuns dueling completely. It doesn't even bother with the pretence of trying to stand up in a duel. An adherent will often open themselves up to attack just to lull their opponent into making a move that will leave them open and vulnerable.
Tràkata is not a last resort- it is a quick end to a battle. Due to the confidence needed to learn Tràkata, however, many adherents choose to play with their prey first before landing the killing strike that will end their opponent's life. It is quite common for Tràkata adherents to make use of a Dual-Phase Lightsaber to extend their range and enable them to access a wider repertoire of attacks.
ANCIENT FORM: TRAKATA Requirements: 5/5 Dun Moch, 200 Force Points
Famous Adherents: Darth Sidius (Palpatine),
Techniques:
• First Circle:
Basic Stab
• Second Circle:
Lunge, Predict Attack • Third Circle:
False Confidence, Sever Limb, Sever Head
• Fourth Circle:
Feigned Attack, Flying Lunge, Lull, Ranged Stab*
• Fifth Circle:
Lethal Riposte, Gouge, Disembowel, Ranged Lunge*
*These Tràkata techniques are only available to those adherents who possess a Dual-Phase lightsaber.
Grip
Held relaxed in the off hand, alternating between tight and loose grips, sometimes even incorporating hand changes and reverse grips. The saber is held in the off hand to lull the opponent into a false sense of security.
Stance
The Tràkata practitioner will stand facing the opponent, a mark of confidence. The saber arm is normally held closest the enemy but will depend on the enemy's style and the adherent's confidence. The starting stance of Trakata is very elaborate, and varies from user to user, but the common point is that the tip of the saber blade or the emitter is universally pointed at the assailant.
Striking
Fast but strong, this style relies heavily upon the flexibility of the wrist. Wide arcs and long stabs are used to land fatal, killing blows early in a fight.
Sith Swords
It is known that Darth Sidious kept a few Sith Swords in his collection, relics of times long past, when the Sith had yet to adapt to the Jedi weaponry. These swords were supremely crafted, hand forged and differentially tempered and generally had a distal temper. In addition to the supreme craftsmanship of what might appear to be a cruder weapon, these blades were then subjected to extremely intricate alchemic treatments.
The most common enhancements bestowed upon the blade by the Sith Alchemists were to make the blade harmonically able to deflect blaster bolts. This also permitted the blades to defend against Lightsaber blades, a development not noticed until much later. While very important at the time, the Sith moved away from the archaic weapon, moving into the current technologies to embrace the more compact (and more concealable) and more sharp lightsaber. As a result, the alchemic processes used to forge these weapons were all but lost to the sands of time. Only a few holocrons still hold the secret, and even fewer Alchemists have the necessary skill to utilize them.
The few Sith Swords that remain intact to this day are kept as treasures, remnants of days gone by, remembrances of the Golden age, and the pinnacle of craftsmanship of Side Smiths.
Parrying
This form has no parries, blocks or defensive stances of any kind. The lightsaber is kept off except
when used to attack the opponent. The Trakata adherent relies upon on external, non-saber defense.
The form currently known only as Lus-ma is one of those forgotten to the history books. The teachings of Lus-ma have been lost to time and at present there are none qualified to teach it. It is known that Lus-ma was a favourite of the leader of the Separatist armies during the Clone Wars, General Grievous, as is it known that he was trained by Count Dooku. Unfortunately this is as far as the bread trail goes and until more details are unearthed the secrets of Lus-ma remain hidden.
It was known that the Emperor's fighting style was terribly demanding, and more agile than one would expect from the aged senator. The strikes seemed to consist largely of wide sweeping arcs and devastating stabs, a form that suited the Emperor well throughout the purge, as well as the many attempts on his life. It is presumed that many of the acrobatics would have been enhanced by use of the Force.
At the current time, specialist Order researchers have been dispatched to Byss, Mustafar, and to the former site of Palpatine's retreat on Naboo to try to discern more of this lost style.
Your Custom Lightsaber
It is not uncommon for a Jedi (or a Sith) to create, and craft a lightsaber completely unique to their style and which plays to their strengths and hides their weaknesses.
- Jedi Master Quinlan Vos was known to use a blade that had extra power cell capacities for extended lengthy field operations.
- Master Qui-Gon Jin had a blade hilt comprised of many small-interconnected power cells, thus lessening the vulnerability and power load drawn from any one.
- Corran Horn and Neija Halcyon had multi-phase lightsabers.
- Master Yoda carried a short lightsaber.
- Mace Windu fought with a purple bladed lightsaber clad in electrum. It is rumored he extracted the crystal from an exotic locale.
- Micah Giett carried a multi-phasic blade.
- Sith Lord Exar Kun created an unusually small and quick dual bladed lightsaber with blue blades. He was known to possess multi-phasic blade technology as well.
- Dark Jedi Asajj Ventress wielded a custom set of curved saber hilts that could be attached into a dual bladed mode, originally made by Komari Vosa.
- Count Dooku used a curved lightsaber hilt, even before falling to the Dark Side.
- Darth Maul constructed a dual bladed lightsaber that used four synthetic Sith crystals, an obvious custom weapon.
- Gantoris made a dual-phase blade.
- It is rumored that Darth Vader himself wielded a multi phasic blade.
- Gorc, a mutated Gamorrean Jedi was known to use a Great Lightsaber.
- Sinya, a Twilek employed by the Black Sun had twin short lightsabers
The Jedi will often go to great lengths hunting and acquiring specific components for their new masterpiece. This guide is
specific components for their new masterpiece. This guide is to help such a person decide what they want to search for.
Starting with the most famous component, the Generator Crystals. These crystals are the rarest, and most necessary component of the lightsaber. This crystal is responsible for the powered Force-beam, and the color of a saber.
Generator Crystals are of three varieties: the Adegan, the more rare Corusca, and the incredibly difficult to find white
Adegans
Durindfire crystals.
Adegan crystals are terribly rare, having only been found in reasonable quantity on Korriban, Yavin, Ruusan, Ilum, and in the force caves on Dantooine. They only occur in places very strong in the force, and usually far away from civilization. The stones on Ruusan were all destroyed when Sith Lord Kaan detonated his Thought Bomb during the Battle of Ruusan. Adegan crystals naturally form in only a few colors: Yellow, Green and Blue. These crystals are tinted from very light to very intensities of their colors. It is presumed that it has to do with the saturation of the force in their 'growing' conditions, but it is unknown whether or not this is the case. It has been proven that er coloured crystals produce blades identical in power to their paler cousins. It is noted that the Ruusan stones were available in every hue before they were destroyed.
The Adegan crystal has a hexagonal symmetry pattern, and occurs as a terminated prism in most cases. Most Adegan crystals are fairly small, less than 10 cm in length. Larger crystals are known to occur rarely. Not all Adegan crystals are suitable for use as a lightsaber crystal, however. Only a select few are imbued with the Force.
Simulated Adegans
As the Sith have seen restricted access to the Adegan mines throughout history by the efforts of the Jedi, in order to create lightsabers, they had to discern an alternate source. And it was through alchemy that this source was found. By taking the more abundant Rubat crystals and grinding them into fine powder, the ancient siders discovered that they could form artificial Adegans.
These lightsaber crystals as well as the infamous red pyramidal Sith Holocrons are fashioned in a similar manner. The alchemist must build a device capable of reaching high temperatures with precisely controlled conditions in order to fabricate the synthetic crystal. This also requires skill with the Force, as well as the appropriate scientific knowledge. Red synthetic lightsaber crystals tend to have pyramidal or tetragonal structure. They can be simple prisms or more complex twinned structures. A synthetic crystal can be of any size that the creator desires. However, the equipment needed to synthesize a large one is very cumbersome and exponentially expensive as the size increases. Thus, most synthetic crystals are no larger than their corresponding Adegan counterparts.
The blades from these crystals were even slightly stronger than the purer Adegan crystal formed blades. The only down side was that the blade was invariably a rich shade of red, one of the many keys that the Jedi would use to identify a Jedi later on. The reason for this power was due to the precisely controlled conditions during synthesis. These crystals contained less internal flaws and inclusions than natural stones, and thus produced a more clarified and intense plasma beam. The rich shade of red obtained was a result of the intense heat and pressure needed to create the stone.
Treated Adegans
By subjecting the natural Adegan crystals to alchemical treatments, the Jedi also discovered new crystal colors. These include baths of force-empowered liquids, plasma discharges, nuclear irradiation, magnetic field treatments and many other methods. Sometimes, even simple exposure to a powerful Side site could taint or change a virgin crystal.
By working a blue crystal, the process turned the crystal and its blade purple. By treating a yellow Adegan, the crystal would take an orange hue. By treating a green crystal, the crystal turned a pale brown, but the blade produced was oddly a bright silvery white (ed: if you know how white light comes from multiple colors, you'll understand this...). While these alchemic treatments resulted in drastic cosmetic changes to the saber blade, no noticable difference was found in their quality.
Corusca Corusca Crystals
Another source of stones for lightsaber production was the Corusca crystal obtained from the crushing gases of Yavin Four. Corusca crystals are one of the most valuable and
Gantoris was able to use a combination of three Corusca stones to fabricate a varied-length lightsaber on Yavin Four. The Corusca stone was known to Exar Kun's spirit, who imparted this knowledge to Gantoris before he died at the Jedi Academy. Corusca crystals can sometimes be attuned to resist cortosis, but this is extremely rare. It has only been performed by one person, a Rodian genius scientist named Suvam Tam. Cortosis was approximately one half as effective versus this weapon. The perfect crystal structure of the dense mineral causes this effect, harmonically separating the cortosis
Durindfire
molecules at the atomic level to some degree.
Durindfire Crystals
The rare Durindfire Crystals are known for their production of a silvery white blade, a rarity among the more common Adegan and Corusca crystals. These stones were discovered to be able to produce the necessary energy by Corellian Jedi, and ever since, it has been a matter of pride for those hailing from Corellia to bear a saber utilizing a Durindfire crystal. Most notably of these would be Corran Horn. The crystal structure of the Durindfire crystal does not lend itself to alchemic treatments, and experiments in trying to do so have thus far ended in the loss of the stones. However, the Durindfire does exceptionally well when used in multi-phase
hardest substances known, and produce intense lightsaber blades. However, very few of them have the Force within them to be utilized in this manner. Out of hundreds, perhaps one might be usable. This information is also uncommon, and
lightsabers.
Novae
thus the Corusca gem is seldom used in lightsaber production.
Corusca stones occur in clear, yellow, orange, and watery pink colors. They tend to be complex cubical prisms, similar to garnets in structure. They can range in size, but all are extremely valuable as gems alone. Most Corusca stones produce purple, white, or orange blades.
The average lightsaber hilt has room for two focusing crystals, while some rare custom models make room for three. The focusing crystals harness and hone the raw energy created by the power flux through the Generator Crystal. The Generator generates the power, but it is the focusing crystals that control the power and make it a usable weapon.
The focusing crystals for lightsabers are almost always Nova crystals of one variety or another. Nova crystals, while rare in and of themselves, are far more abundant than the elusive Adegan crystals, with one variety or another being available on almost every planet, with a few exceedingly rare varieties only available in far corners of the galaxy.
Nova crystals are generally clear, with a luster that often makes them desirable as gemstones for jewelry. Their use as focusing crystals helps constrict the saber blade to a specific field, keeping the energy in a tight enough area to cause the legendary damage of sabers. Some crystals change the energy patterns in ways imperceptible to the eye, and others condense the beam so tightly that it causes the blade to ignite things close enough to it.
The basic, well known and easily accessible forms of
Nova crystals are: Bondar, Damind, Firkrann, Luxum, Opila, Phond, and Sapith. There are several other Nova varieties that are far less easy to acquire. Nevertheless, Jedi occasionally seek these rare crystals out as a matter of pride, or to maintain a combination they prefer. A few are listed below for reference.
Jenruax - Found only on Dagobah, these smoky crystals are rather rare. When used in conjunction with a Upari crystal,it produces a strangely fine grain in the blade that lends itself incredibly well to the more accurate deflection of blaster fire. The fine grain, unfortunately impedes the saber when used in a duel against another saber. The grain causes the blade to 'slide out' from locks, often leaving the wielder in a very vulnerable overextended position.
Solari - Found on Bespin and occasionally Coruscant, these rounded Nova crystals are very attuned to the Light Side of the force. While valuable to the Jedi, they are relatively useless to Jedi.
Upari - This diamond white dodecahedron shaped crystal is well revered for its use in sabers. While found only on Kashyyyk, Many Jedi still find the procurement of these Nova necessary. When used as a focusing crystal, this stone makes it far easier to adjust the length of a saber's blade while in combat.
Nextor - This seven-pointed crystal found on Geonosis is valued highly by masters of the second and seventh form of
saber fighting. When used in the saber, these crystals chaotically change the energy flow of the saber, making it easier for the wielder to parry other saber blades, and give them an advantage in saber locks. Deflecting blaster bolts with such a blade is far less precise and much more difficult, however.
Sigil - This Korriban stone is very murky, almost to opacity, and renowned for its ability to cause sabers to produce hotter blades. A saber with a Sigil focusing crystal also runs the risk of igniting anything flammable within 6 inches of its blade. This can be both an asset or a liability, depending upon the environment.
Melnora - This variant is found only on Kamino, mined from rocks very deep beneath the seas. This crystal helps 'tame' the gyroscopic spinning of an activated saber, greatly aiding Form IV devotees in their fighting.
In addition, the Krayt Pearls (gems found inside the gullet of Krayt Dragons on Tatooine) can be used as a focusing crystal despite not being of the Nova family. The results of how these crystals might enhance the blade vary widely, and cannot be conclusive. It would be safe to say that it enhances the attributes that the other focusing crystal imparts.
Hilts
The actual part where Jedi and Weapon unite, the hilt is often the most heavily customized part of the saber. There are a few major divisions within this category, depending on use and
style of the wielder.
Straight Hilts
The generic, basic saber hilt is about 7-9 inches long and about 1½" diameter. This makes it large enough for two handed use, but small enough to be able to use one handed. This is an overall average style, favoring no one style over another.
Curved Hilts
Almost universally made in one-handed configuration, the slightly curved hilt is grasped behind the bend from the emitter, sometimes with the index finger pointing down the hilt. This type of hilt is often favored by Form II proponents, as the more natural blade orientation to the body aids their combat style by requiring less motion at shoulder, giving a slight speed advantage.
Single-handed Hilt
Designed for use in one hand and one hand only, this 5-7 inches long hilt literally has no room for a second hand. These are often designed somewhat ergonomically to best fit the swell of the palm, which helps the wielder overcome the gyroscopic effect. These hilts are excellent for light and fast styles, which favor speed and dexterity rather than power.
Double handed Hilt
Designed for strong strokes and heavy blows, this saber is designed to be used with two hands at almost all times. From 8-11 inches in length, this style of hilt sometimes has a counter weight at the base in the form of a keyed access panel for the power cell. The weight at the bottom helps to counter the gyroscopic effect, but slows the strikes down a bit. This hilt is best suited for powerful characters who rely on strength to overcome their opponents.
Saberstaff Hilt
Saberstaff Hilt
A two-handed weapon, the saberstaff, or double-bladed lightsaber, is often the weapon of choice for many wielders of smaller, more agile size in the Order. The elongated hilt of the saberstaff is often just a double terminated hilt, and occasionally has a release in the center, allowing the wielder to separate the halves and use as two regular lightsabers.
Materials
Hilts are built on a hollowed core of a metallic substance,
Hilts are built on a hollowed core of a metallic substance, often durasteel, but sometimes more exotic materials are used. Ditanium or tritanium are hardier metals, but somewhat more expensive and more difficult to work. Some Jedi have tried to alloy the very expensive and rare Cortosis into their saber hilts, only to find that the metal dampens the energy produced by the generator crystals, rending the saber useless.
Phrik alloy is also rumored to be lightsaber resistant. It is mined on Gromas 14. This alloy was used in the
mined on Gromas 14. This alloy was used in the Trooper project, and Emperor Palpatine supposedly had his lightsaber hilt made from the material. This is the stuff that the MagnaGuard electrostaves were made from as well. Mace Windu is known to have plated his saber hilt in electrum, giving it a golden hue.
giving it a golden hue.
Some Jedi craft more ergonomic grips, using comfortably upholstered cushions for their fingers, the grooves lined with rancor leather or any other exotic trim. Ergonomic grips, if customized for the individual certainly does improve their handling of the weapon, but also can not be used well in any hand it was not designed for, nor in a reverse grip. A saber set up for forward grip in the left hand would not handle well in the user's right or the user's left in a reverse grip, and probably not well at all in anyone else's hands.
It is standard practice among lightsiders to incorporate automatic cut-off switches into their sabers, so that if they drop the saber, it deactivates. side proponents sometimes eschew such a failsafe, in favor of throwing the saber offensively, or just out of not caring what happens if they are cut down. Something to remember is that if you are aboard a ship, the saber blade could cause a critical hull breach if dropped. Several have remembered that and installed cut-off switches that deactivate the pressure plate for when they are about to throw the blade.
The Emitter is often the most customized item on a lightsaber. The classic Bell emitters (as Obi-Wan Kenobi was oft to prefer) and shroud emitters (as Anakin Skywalker preferred) are revered as timeless, although many in the Order prefer a far more sinister look, reaching back to the ages of the Sith War to draw inspiration for their own creations.
The one known variant on emitters which has some impact on performance are the focusing tines found on many perfectionist's sabers. These metallic alloyed tines protrude from the hilt and move notoriously close to the blade of the ignited saber. This enhancement, discovered during the Sith Wars, is rather rarely done, but it has a very specific purpose. The end of the time nearest the saber blade is typically coated in an alchemic formula consisting of powdered Adegan and Novae crystals as well as the more widely used Kyber. These times are precisely calibrated to 'dip' their ends into the energy flow of the saber blade, focusing the blade further, and granting a better degree of control over the gyroscopic effect of the saber blade. Many of those who craft dual-phase lightsabers use focusing tines for this reason.
In the end, it must be recognized that the saber is the expression of the wielder. Many assumptions can be drawn
Glossary
Advanced: A form that requires a basic understanding of some of the precepts taught by the Core arts before being able to fully understand..
Ataru: Highly kinetic and offensive Advanced form.
Core: Basic lightsaber forms which require no previous training with lightsabers to study.
Djem So: Well balanced aggressive/Defensive Advanced form.
Dun Moch: Side Aggression and Domination in a Advanced form.
Elite: A form that is very advanced, and must only be studied by those who have had much experience with less complicated forms.
Generator Crystal: The crystal used in a saber to generate the light beam. Adegans, Corusca and Durindfire are all generator crystals.
JarKai Niman: Twin sabers are wielded in speed and precision in this Advanced form.
Juyo: Acrobatic Elite form centering on the use of the saber staff.
Lightsaber: The high-tech, glowing sword-like weapons used by the Jedi and Sith in the Star Wars Galaxy.
Makashi: Elegant and compact, precise Core form known as the Duellist form.
Niman: Broad form, using all Core forms to make this Advanced form.
Novae: Crystals used to focus the Generator Crystals energy into a beam.
