This principle transcends mere combat techniques and embodies an ethical approach that prioritizes peaceful resolutions over engaging in conflict. Yoda, in his wisdom, advocated for greater adherence to Form 0, aiming to steer Jedi towards non-aggressive negotiations.
Considered the fundamental and introductory form of lightsaber combat, Shii-Cho serves as the initial training for Younglings within the Jedi Temple. Its primary objective lies in disarming opponents rather than delivering lethal strikes.
Characterized as a more refined style of lightsaber combat, Makashi is specifically tailored to counter the techniques employed in Form I. Emphasizing balance and precision over extravagant acrobatics, practitioners of Makashi maintain a tightly controlled center of mass. Their attacks are swift, accurate, and executed with meticulous precision.
Renowned for its exceptional defensive capabilities, Soresu stands as a form that, once mastered, can render the user nearly impervious to all manner of attacks. Effective against both blaster bolts and lightsaber strikes, Soresu aims to secure victory by exhausting opponents and outlasting them in combat.
A dynamic and acrobatic style of lightsaber combat, Ataru harnesses the Force to empower practitioners with superhuman capabilities. This form, however, may prove less effective in situations that require precise dexterity. Ataru is characterized by Force-enhanced acrobatics, incorporating somersaults and leaping strikes for both offensive and defensive maneuvers. Additionally, it emphasizes rapid and powerful strikes from multiple directions.
Shien emphasizes the mastery of deflecting and redirecting blaster bolts using a lightsaber. This straightforward defensive technique seamlessly transitions into a highly effective offensive tactic. The key to Shien's success lies in catching adversaries off guard with unexpected attacks, capitalizing on moments when they are least prepared.
Djem So is an aggressive style of lightsaber combat that harnesses both physical strength and the power of the Force. Its practitioners rely on wide and forceful strikes, capable of breaking through almost any defense. The foundation of Djem So lies in solid blocks and parries, swiftly followed by powerful counterattacks and ripostes.
Niman is characterized by its balanced approach, providing Jedi who prioritize study and diplomacy with a versatile and easily mastered fighting form. While Niman places less emphasis on intricate bladework and specialized techniques, it compensates by encouraging the integration of Force-based attacks during combat. This includes utilizing telekinetic pulls and shoves in synchronization with lightsaber strikes, enhancing the effectiveness of Niman practitioners.
Vaapad is not simply a fighting style but rather a state of mind. It enables the wielder to tap into their inner darkness and embrace the fury of their opponent. By doing so, Vaapad practitioners can absorb and redirect the dark energies of their adversaries, creating a continuous cycle of reflecting the opponent's own energy back at them. This form harnesses the power of the opponent's aggression and turns it against them.
Juyo is renowned as the most ferocious form of lightsaber combat, requiring intense internal focus from its users. Over time, knowledge of Juyo became restricted within the Jedi Order, as members grew concerned that its principles could potentially lead practitioners down a path to the dark side. The raw and aggressive nature of Juyo's techniques made it a formidable but risky choice, emphasizing the importance of control and discipline to prevent succumbing to the temptations of the dark side.