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I found this thing on the net; if it's already been posted, then pardon me, but I didn't find anything like it here.

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Lightsaber combat is a fictional fencing style used by Jedi and Sith in "Star Wars". None of the styles described below are directly mentioned in the films; however, the martial arts of lightsaber masters are explored in detail in novelizations, novels, magazines, comics, tabletop RPGs, and various "Illustrated Dictionaries".

The prototype for the cinematic duels was a combination of Eastern sword fighting styles Kendo and Iaido and Western schools of fencing.

Seven Styles of Lightsaber Combat

Each Jedi chooses the style that suits them best. For example, Master Yoda uses the Ataru style to compensate for his short stature; Mace Windu uses Vaapad to feed off the power of his own anger and use it to his advantage (without crossing the line into the Dark Side). Count Dooku practices the Makashi style, which, firstly, aligns with his love for "blade-to-blade" dueling and, secondly, is characterized by elegance, precision, and even a certain same aristocratism. The Jedi Exile (KOTOR 2. - Riila) was proficient in several styles at once but did not reach the highest rank in any of them.

Style I: Shii-Cho

When the lightsaber was created, it became necessary to develop a combat technique for its use. Thus Style I emerged, also called the "Sarlacc Style". Its foundation lay in ancient martial traditions containing key sword fighting principles adopted by the Jedi Masters of that distant era.

Style I, like all styles developed from it, includes the following basic methods and concepts:
attack - a series of lunges aimed at various parts of the body;
parrying - a combination of blocks preventing the blade from hitting specified body parts;
strike zones (1 - head, 2 - left arm, 3 - right arm, 4 - back, 5 - left leg, 6 - right leg);
training exercises to improve reaction time.

Younglings, Jedi recruits, study Style I even before they become Padawans and acquire a personal mentor, a Jedi Master. In "Star Wars: Attack of the Clones", one can see Yoda teaching younglings how to deflect blaster bolts.

The only known practitioner of Style I in the "Star Wars" universe is Kit Fisto. But although he was an unsurpassed master of Style I, it did not help him prevail over Darth Sidious in "Revenge of the Sith". The Shii-Cho style we know from KOTOR-2 is good against a large number of enemies (especially those armed with blasters), but is ineffective when it comes time to fight a single opponent armed with the Force and a lightsaber.

Style II: Makashi

Style I, as you have realized, is most often used against superior enemy forces. In contrast, Style II, or "Ysalamiri Style", was developed as a means for conducting "blade-to-blade" duels. The style itself is characterized as very elegant—and at the same time powerful—requiring extreme precision, but giving the user the ability to attack and defend with minimal effort, wearing down the opponent. The style is based on nimble parrying, lunges, and short precise strikes—as opposed to the blocks and wide swings used in other styles. This style requires very careful calibration of the light blade, but the results are impressive. However, as soon as weapons like blasters enter the fray, or there is more than one opponent, the advantages of Style II vanish.

In the times preceding the Clone Wars, Jedi rarely resorted to this technique. One-on-one duels occurred so infrequently for the Jedi that they considered Style II impractical. However, earlier, before the appearance of blaster weapons, Makashi was quite common.

Darth Tyranus (also known as Count Dooku) in "Attack of the Clones" demonstrates the highest art of mastering Style II and fights with virtuosity multiplied by ancient technique. When he showed Style II in action, he threw the Jedi into confusion: their training system did not provide for such duels where opponents deliver targeted point strikes to one another.

This style is based on the Spanish fencing style "La Destreza Verdadera", which is often called the "dance of sabers" or "swords of truth"; the style is "fluid", in the terms of fencing masters, but at the same time, quite rigid.

Style III: Soresu

After defeating Darth Maul on Naboo, Obi-Wan Kenobi decided to perfect himself in Style III, the most defensively oriented of all styles, because Qui-Gon Jinn, Obi-Wan's mentor and a master of Style IV (Ataru), could not withstand Darth Maul.

Style III, or "Minockka Style", was originally developed to counter the rapidly growing popularity of blaster weapons. The traditional enemies of the Jedi were armed with blasters, and the Jedi had to find a method of defense that the enemy could not bypass or replicate.

Pursuing the sole goal of parrying blaster bolts, this style uses movements performed in dangerous proximity to the body—to achieve maximum protection while consuming as little energy as possible. The technique allows for minimizing the hit area and makes someone proficient in it practically invulnerable. In "A New Hope", Obi-Wan Kenobi becomes reachable by a light blade only when he himself opens up to Vader. Those practicing Soresu maintain their defense without much effort, waiting for the opponent to tire and make a mistake; and then the Jedi, who just a moment ago was on the defensive, delivers his crushing blow. Among the Jedi, Luminara Unduli and Barriss Offee are skilled in the Soresu style.

Style IV: Ataru

Adherents of the "Hawk-Bat Style" make extensive use of acrobatic tricks—sometimes completely unbelievable ones. The style was created in the final centuries of the Old Republic. Qui-Gon and Yoda were both masters of Style IV, as they demonstrated in duels with Darth Maul and Count Dooku, respectively. Obi-Wan Kenobi, who by then was already quite proficient in Ataru, abandoned it in favor of Style III because he believed that fatal flaws in Ataru led to the death of his mentor. However, later Kenobi resorted to Ataru again—when he had to face Anakin Skywalker—or rather, Darth Vader—in the final battle on Mustafar. Aayla Secura, if Jan Duursema (co-creator of the Twi'lek Jedi) is to be believed, was also a master of Ataru. Quinlan Vos taught her this art. Palpatine used a Sith version of this style, which included thrusts and wide swings.

In critical situations, Style IV masters use the Force to perform their acrobatic tricks. Continuously spinning, jumping, and moving with lightning speed, the Jedi appear as a blurred streak. To demonstrate wonders of acrobatics, superhuman reaction, and physical power granted by this style, a Jedi Master must fully surrender to the power of the Force, allowing it to penetrate every corner of his being. Having achieved complete unity with the Force, he no longer needs to think about things like infirmity and old age.

Style V: Shien / Djem So

Style V (or "Krayt-dragon Style") is a powerful style developed by practitioners of Style III—those who preferred a more offensive tactic. The defensive nature of Style III often leads to a dangerous prolonging of the fight. The Shien style is the result of a combination of styles II and III. Anakin—both as himself and after turning into Darth Vader—as well as Luke Skywalker and Plo Koon, were masters of Style V.

Style V is based on defensive techniques borrowed from Style III but turns defense into attack. A typical example: if style III is used to parry a blaster bolt, then style V is oriented toward redirecting the charge back at the opponent. Such a technique simultaneously protects the user and damages the enemy. Similarly, this style uses the classic parrying technique from style II, but in the case of style V, Jedi perform a counterattack simultaneously with reflecting the blow. Another difference from style III is that followers of the Shien style use frontal attacks and slash the enemy left and right in an attempt to break their resistance through brute force. The aggressive philosophy of style V is disapproved of by many Jedi.

Vader created his own version of style V, in which he uses only one hand while keeping the other carelessly held to the side. This can be seen at the very beginning of the duel in "The Empire Strikes Back".

Combining aggressive but perfected techniques of style II and superior defensive functions of style III, Shien / Djem So proved its effectiveness.

Style VI: Niman

"Rancor Style", style VI, was the standard combat style in the era before and during the Clone Wars and the Jedi Purge. This martial discipline is often called the "Diplomat's Style". The result can be observed in "Attack of the Clones": almost all Jedi using style VI were killed on Geonosis. The same sad fate befell Coleman Trebor, whose mastery of the Niman style did not save him from a master shot by Jango Fett.

In style VI, an attempt was made to balance all elements of lightsaber combat by borrowing techniques from styles that were not heavily oriented toward fighting. Result: followers of style VI possessed all basic combat techniques to an equal—albeit very average—level; such a path was suitable for diplomats since they could devote more time to politics instead of tedious training.

Style VII: Juyo

Also called "Vornskr Style", style VII remained unfinished for an entire millennium. Later, Master Mace Windu decided to refine and develop the style; he turned it into the combat style Vaapad. The most provocative and complex of all styles, Vaapad requires incredible concentration, a high level of mastery, and excellent proficiency in other styles. Only three Jedi were able to fully master the art of Vaapad: Mace Windu, Depa Billaba, and Sora Bulg, who in turn taught Quinlan Vos some techniques. Sora Bulg helped Windu perfect Vaapad but proved too weak to resist the currents of the Force and leaned toward the Dark Side. Thus, it was Vaapad that mastered him.

Daring, straightforward movements in Vaapad are used in combination with the most advanced techniques, including Force-powered jumps and lunges. Style VII does not look as spectacular as style IV; however, the technique of open movements leads to a very unpredictable fighting style. A powerful staccato of hacking blows and the flickering of arms and legs make the opponent think there is no sequence in these movements—and throw them into confusion.

Style VII absorbed the emotional and physiological pressure of style V but manages it more effectively (if the Jedi masters the style well enough). With proper control, style VII can grant the user incredible power.

However, Vaapad stands on the very edge of falling to the Dark Side, as it uses anger and other negative emotions to carry out attacks. Only Windu's mastery and his devotion to the Light prevent him from falling under the influence of the Dark Side; this is why Vaapad is considered dangerous and used so rarely. Two other known practitioners of Vaapad, Sora Bulg and Depa Billaba, leaned toward the Dark Side.

In KOTOR 2, events of which unfold approximately 4000 years before the Clone Wars, Juyo is one of the combat styles used—even though it was not yet fully formed. This proves that Juyo was a very effective combat style thousands of years before Mace Windu turned it into Vaapad.

Darth Maul used a variety of Juyo (not Vaapad, since Vaapad was created by Windu and he never taught it to the Sith) together with other martial arts.

Other Combat Styles

The following forms are not among the seven main styles; they can be considered unofficial. All of them, as a rule, are based on other styles—with the exception of Style Zero, which emphatically avoids conflict whenever possible.

Style VIII: Sokan

Developed by ancient Jedi Knights during the Great Sith War, Sokan combined mobility and evasion tactics with the choreography of the IV combat style. Sokan is distinguished by fast lightsaber strikes to the opponent's vital organs in combination with nimble flips and rapid movements. Opposing sides used the specifics of the landscape to lure the rival into a place where Sokan could be applied with the greatest effect.

Obi-Wan used elements of Sokan during the fight with Anakin on Mustafar in Episode III: Obi-Wan sought suitable high ground to take advantage of a more convenient position and defeat Anakin by exploiting his weak points.

Style IX: Shien

To apply the Shien style, a Jedi must hold the lightsaber horizontally. The tip of the blade points at the opponent; the lightsaber describes an arc, and during this time, the Jedi quickly tosses the sword from one hand to the other. In the game "Knights of the Old Republic 2: The Sith Lords", Master Zez-Kai El teaches the Exile this style if the Exile chose the path of a Jedi Guardian or Jedi Sentinel. (Do not confuse this style with Style V: Shien / Djem So).

Style X: Niman

Niman allowed a Jedi to fight with two swords at once, one in each hand, as demonstrated by Anakin Skywalker in "Attack of the Clones". One blade was used for attack, the other—for defense (to deflect blows) or as an additional opportunity for attack. Many Jedi tried to master the art of Niman, wishing to gain even rudimentary skills of dual-blade attack, but only a few lightsaber masters fully grasped this wisdom. Serra Keto, Sora Bulg, and Asajj Ventress practiced style X; also, perhaps, Darth Revan was a master of this style. (Do not confuse this Niman with Style VI Niman).

Style XI

This style is essentially the same as style I, except for the strike zones. Here they are: 1 - head, 2 - left arm, 3 - right arm, 4 - left hip, 5 - right leg, 6 - left leg.

Style "Zero"

Not being a combat style in essence, style "Zero" carried the idea that a Jedi should always know when to draw the lightsaber and when to find another way to solve the problem. The style was devised by Master Yoda so that Jedi would avoid the temptation to start "aggressive negotiations", instead using other Jedi tricks—such as the well-known mind trick.

Dun moch

The Sith, always striving for total superiority over the opponent's personality, use all possible means—including their own doctrine of lightsaber combat. Dun moch was combined with jabs, mockery, and jokes directed at the opponent to reveal their weak points, doubts, or contradictions. Another variation of Dun moch was using the Force to throw large heavy objects at the opponent during battle, distracting them and capable of causing serious injury. Darth Vader used such a technique against Luke in "Empire". Count Dooku and Darth Sidious applied it against Yoda in "Attack of the Clones" and "Revenge of the Sith", respectively.

Saber Throw

Sometimes Jedi or Sith, to hit an object beyond reach, use a special technique called the "lightsaber throw". When the lightsaber is launched at the target, the blade rotates quickly, like a propeller, and upon hitting the target, cuts it into pieces. Skilled masters use the Force to control the trajectory of the lightsaber and make it return back to the hand. When Yoda in "Revenge of the Sith" made his way into the Jedi Temple, he used this technique to kill a clone trooper who attacked him. When Luke Skywalker jumped onto the bridge in "Return of the Jedi", Darth Vader threw his lightsaber and cut through the bridge supports; some believe that Vader lacked the agility, nimbleness, or Force power to jump onto the bridge himself. Others believe it was a skillful demonstration of the Force to confuse and intimidate an inexperienced opponent. According to a third opinion, Vader, remembering the sad outcome of his battle with Obi-Wan on Mustafar, decided not to tempt fate twice and not to put himself under the blade of someone standing above.

Trakata

This combat style was used by only one or two of the most powerful Jedi. During a fight, the Jedi holds the lightsaber in their hand but does not activate it. They dodge attacks or defend using only the Force. The most qualified among the Jedi undertake a Force counter-offensive in the gaps between the opponent's attacks. Waiting for the right moment, they quickly switch the sword on and off, plunging the light blade into the opponent's body. The enemy inevitably receives a serious wound or dies. This technique is extremely difficult to use, and a Jedi who chooses it must be a very powerful Force-user. Furthermore, it is believed that this style is from the arsenal of the Dark Side, as the killing here happens stealthily; besides, Trakata can be used outside a duel to get rid of someone standing nearby. Although the best application of Trakata is found in a lightsaber duel, this technique can also be used to deflect blaster bolts.

"The unorthodox"

Some techniques fall outside the context of traditional combat styles practiced by Jedi. Characters like General Grievous from Episode III may use more free movements. The goal of his rapid attacks is to confuse and bewilder masters of the classical school. Grievous succeeded greatly in such tricks thanks to the flexibility of his joints, computer reaction time, and an extra pair of arms. Only the most experienced and skilled among the Jedi could withstand his attacks. For example, Grievous could take a sword in each of his four hands, put two hands forward and, by rotating them quickly in the air, create an improvised shield. Grievous used such a trick against Obi-Wan on Utapau, but Kenobi managed to deal with him by waiting for the right moment and finding a weak spot in the defense.

Another unique style of lightsaber mastery is that of Adi Gallia (who fell victim to Grievous): she held the sword blade backward (reverse grip style).
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I'll continue with what I was too lazy to type yesterday, as the material was in printed form. Movements and Strikes In all seven combat styles, ancient terms are used that Jedi use to describe tasks, ways to achieve a goal, and the results that can be obtained during a lightsaber duel. Strikes Cho mai The term cho mai is used to describe cutting off an opponent's arm holding a weapon. This strike indicates that the Jedi inflicting it seeks to inflict minimal damage on the opponent; cho mai also demonstrates the Jedi's high skill. Cho mak Cutting off an opponent's limb, such as the leg of a humanoid. Cho Sun This term describes a movement that leads to cutting off the opponent's arm that is holding a weapon. Sai cha The term sai cha is used to describe the rare instance when a Jedi executes their opponent. This technique is intended for the most dangerous opponents - those whom the Jedi cannot allow to remain alive. Sai cha is what Anakin Skywalker did to Count Dooku in Episode III. Sai tok A technique condemned by the Jedi due to its Sith nature, it cuts the opponent in two, separating the legs from the torso at the waist. Obi-Wan Kenobi, as a Padawan, did this to Darth Maul in "The Phantom Menace." Shiak Shiak is an act of mercy, stabbing a mortally wounded enemy. Shiim Inflicting a small scratch on the opponent with the edge of a lightsaber blade. It is also considered a sign of desperation or helplessness in a fight against a more powerful enemy. Sun djem Sun djem is an attack that aims to knock the weapon out of the opponent's hand. It is performed when one does not want to inflict physical harm on the opponent. Movements Jung A 180-degree turn. Jung ma This term is used to describe a 360-degree turn maneuver, during which energy is accumulated for an attack on the enemy. Kai-kan Essentially, this is not a technique, but a staged performance of a famous, usually ancient, and very dangerous lightsaber duel, which can only be performed by well-trained Jedi. Sai A term used to describe a movement that Jedi perform when launching an attack on the legs. The Jedi jumps up, using the Force, and counterattacks from above, using the acceleration of free fall to increase the power of the strike. Shun This term is used when a Jedi makes a 360-degree turn, using their own arm as a lever and gaining additional speed for the attack. Sources: Fighting with Lightsabers, by John Clements The Seven Forms of Lightsaber Combat - Star Wars Insider, Issues 62 and 68 Jedi fighting styles Lightsaber Techniques Lightsaber Combat Styles Star Wars: Attack of the Clones The Visual Dictionary, Lightsaber Combat (page 62) Star Wars: Revenge of the Sith The Visual Dictionary
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You can find even stranger things on Wikipedia.
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Informative.

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