A Deeper Look: Lightsaber Combat Forms—Form III: Soresu

In Star Wars, lightsaber fighting styles have evolved to address weaknesses and new situations on the battlefield. These changes have occurred over time. The styles have adapted to better suit the needs of the fighters.

When developers created the first version, Shii-Cho, lightsabers remained comparatively rare, giving their wielders a significant tactical advantage. Shortly after lightsaber use and one-on-one battling spread throughout the galaxy, someone created the second form, Makashi. These two forms both represent the eras in which they were made.

For lightsaber users, the introduction of blasters and other similar ranged weapons proved to be a problematic development. During that time period, Makashi and Shii-Cho were two popular lightsaber fighting techniques. These techniques were not designed to defend against attacks with lightsabers. A blaster-wielding opponent might keep shooting while staying a safe distance from the lightsaber user.

One significant intrinsic benefit of the lightsaber was its plasma blade's ability to deflect blaster fire. This implied a sabre wielder could elves from blaster strikes using the lightsaber's incredible power. That discovery led to the creation of Soresu, lightsaber Form 3. This lightsaber form is mainly for defense, helping skilled users effectively block attacks, except for those from blasters.

How Soresu Lightsaber Form Works

The main goal of the Soresu stance was to help saber wielders deflect blaster shots. It is also known as the Way of the Mynock or The Resilience Form.

The stance was particularly useful when fighting multiple opponents. To accomplish this, the Soresu master carefully wields the lightsaber, keeping the blade close to the body so it is constantly ready to block oncoming fire. Similarly, they adopt a stance and posture that presents the smallest possible target.

Soresu, like Makashi, emphasizes efficient movement. This helps the user save energy. It also allows them to avoid unpredictable actions that could leave them vulnerable to attacks.

A practitioner of Soresu is never unprepared for a protracted battle. They wait patiently for the enemy to become fatigued, expose themselves to a counterattack, or shift their attention to other fighters nearby. The main goal is to survive, but a skilled Soresu expert can redirect blaster shots back at the attacker.

Practitioners developed the Soresu form to help protect themselves against blaster fire. Still, its principles can also be used to deflect various fighting technologies, such as lightsabers, efficiently.

The Shortcomings of the Soresu Form

One significant drawback of the Soresu lightsaber form is that it is nearly entirely focused on defense. Although practitioners are not particularly concerned with being on the offensive, they can strike when they find an opening. When the situation demands an attack, the Soresu expert will probably use strategies from other fighting forms in battle.

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