THE JEDI ACADEMY - THE LIGHTSABER

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Lightsabers have been used for thousands of years by the Jedi Order and the methods used to employ them have been refined throughout this time to create an approach that is far more holistic than simply reverting to bladework: each Jedi who has ever picked up a lightsaber has found themselves shaping their mode of battle to the way in which they think and, likewise, being shaped by it in turn. As such, over time, distinctive combat philosophies accompanied by the techniques that epitomise those states of mind have been developed, becoming what we call the ‘Forms’ of lightsaber combat. Each one is centred around a particular approach to battle that is in turn reflected by a way of thinking, such that a Jedi’s manner in combat is also reflected on their practices out of combat.

An individual who fights defensively might be expected to have a conservative mindset that focuses on a simple, minimalist approach that achieves their objectives with the least effort expended, but with maximum efficacy. Likewise, a Jedi who fights offensively might be seen to be more direct, perhaps even brutal in their mindset, but favouring a quick, clean completion of their missions, wasting little time on extraneous considerations. All Jedi will ultimately be shaped by the Forms in some way: they may choose one that best suits their methods, or alternatively, will find one naturally choosing them because of their preferences for particular combat technique. Each one naturally offers particular strengths and weaknesses to those that use them, but it is common for all Jedi to study at least one or two within their lifetime, though true Masters of any form are a rare thing indeed.

FORM ZERO

Ethical Principle

“The best blades are kept in their sheaths.”
Alternative methods of resolution, via creative negotiation and diplomacy
Use of alternative, even violent, methods to resolve a combat situation, but not using a lightsaber
Use of the lightsaber as a means of intimidation to avoid a battle

SHII-CHO

The First Form
Determination | Way of the Sarlacc

Known as the Way of the Sarlacc or Determination
Developed when the Jedi transitioned from normal blades to Lightsabers
Designed specifically to cater to Lightsaber usage
Considered the training form as it was experimental when made
Primary focus is on disarming

MAKASHI

The Second Form

Contention | Way of the Ysalamiri

Developed specifically to combat Lightsaber wielders
This is a dueling form which focuses upon skill over strength
Unpopular during times without Darkside users

SORESU

The Third Form

Resilience | Way of the Mynock

Most defensive of the forms
Developed specifically to combat blast users
Focuses on deflecting shots
Considered the pinnacle of non-aggressive philosophy
It’s main practice is motion economy, and building of momentum to avoid unneeded energy usage

ATARU

The Fourth Form
Aggression | Way of the Hawk-Bat

Known as the Way of the Hawk-Bat or Aggression
Designed for single-combat, it was weak for prolonged combat and confined spaces.
Not recommended against blaster users
Primarily focused on using the force to amplify and enhance the user’s physical abilities
Acrobatic in form
Strike from multiple angles

SHIEN / DJEM-SO

The Fifth Form
Perseverance | Way of the Krayt Dragon

Known as The Way of the Krayt Dragon or Perseverance
Actually divided into two combat disciplines
Created by Form 3 Practitioners who felt that it created prolonged combat thus this form focuses on creating counter opportunities, rather than waiting. Using their attacks against them.
Shien is focused upon the origins of Soresu, blocking blaster bolts then returning them back.
Djem So is focused upon lightsaber combat, focusing on counter-attacks.

NIMAN

The Sixth Form
Moderation | Way of the Rancor

Also known as the Diplomat’s Form
A mixed style, that combines aspects of all the previous forms together into one generalized form.
Has no major strengths, but no drawbacks to be exploited
Encourages the user to combine force abilities into their style.
Also well developed for dual-blade use
Encourages practitioners to rely on creativity and intuition, rather than scripted responses.

JUYO

The Seventh Form

Ferocity | Way of the Vornskr

Considered the most vicious form
Requires great internal focus
Its teaching can lead individuals to the Dark Side.
Requires the user to use brute strength, but also channel controlled passion into their fighting.
Designed to overwhelm singular opponents through raw power.

VAPAAD
Form Variation

A state of mind rather than a true form
Teaches the user to enjoy the fight, and find satisfaction in winning, then channel that into their form.
The user transforms themself into a conduit for their opponents fury, being a loop to send it back at them.
Brings the user even closer to the Dark Side than Juyo normally does.