Form II: Makashi - Description & Analysis

[@FellsApprentice]

Darth Tyrannus's holding his lightsaber out to the side, is meant to lure the opponent into attacking, seeking a presumed opening that actually isn't there. In short, it's a TRAP!

[@matthewcooper4248]

Or, in martial terms, he assumes a Fool's Guard.

[@ktastet1]

A bar would be proud

[@quangtrungbui675]

nah, that kind of guard means Dooku saying "come on in bro, i'm currently having some time stretching my muscles a bit"

[@dulio3240]

Form 1 is all about simplicity and letting the force flow through you becoming a waterfall of strikes. form 2 is discipline, elegance, fluidity in motion. instead of becoming a whirlwind of blades you are a dagger in the dark. form 3 is simplicity, efficiency and defence. Become the eye of the storm and you will ward out all storms. form 4 is all about speed, agility and acrobatics. Overwhelm your foes with blinding speed, strike like a bolt of lightning Form V, dominance, strength and steadiness. A mountain you must become, crush your enemy with the strength of one. Form VI, flexibility, instincts, open mindedness and tactics. A trickster with endless tricks. Form VII, aggression and fury. Let the flow of battle fuel you and become a fury of blades.

[@piercewise2232]

Agreed. Djem So for me as my favorite. Decent defense with an emphasis on brute strength and counter attacks.

[@ragingocelot4013]

+Pierce Wise hey I know you're in that face book group bro

[@piercewise2232]

+TUNA SUB that extraordinary black group one? 😂small world... or small internet I guess

[@ragingocelot4013]

+Pierce Wise no the Star Wars one

[@ragingocelot4013]

+Pierce Wise I talked to u on Kik

[@RojoFern]

Lightsaber combat, where all the star wars fans that fence hang out

[@NightcrawlerNC]

And lose there limbs

[@rayden120]

Plus Makashi fits so well with Christopher Lee's personality cause be did say he was fencer in his youth I can see that in Dooku. And in Bob Anderson too.

[@deadponic117]

dooku and ventress are two of the only people so far that have answered the blast deflection problem presented with Makashi, if I had to pick an form as a backbone for a personalized style, I will always pick Makashi, I love lightsaber combat but it does need to be paired off with other forms in combonation in order to achieve maximum effectiveness, essentially, pulling a vader, I think Jensaarai would understand that

[@lukepirie8473]

It’s probably the best form for Assasins

[@jelagalam9839]

How strange I do fencing does that technically mean that I have “mastered” makashi?

[@gameovervirus2384]

Not A Lord of Cinder no it does not. Makashi is a classical and archaic fighting form in a galaxy far far away. It’s inspiration derived from real world fencing techniques and postures. Even if you do participate in fencing competitions, and win them, you have not mastered Makashi. What you have done is become particularly skilled in its prime influences. Which is still particularly noteworthy.

[@casbot71]

The issue with the opening salute to your opponent is it temporarily blinds you due to having a incredibly bright plasma blade held directly in front of your eyes. _"As a fellow gentleman, could you please wait a few minutes for the strobing after-images in my eyes to fade?"_

[@robgeorge4581]

Your analysis of form 2 is a lot like a makashi master. Refined, Elegant, and precise. Since I'm a music fan and Star Wars EU (not a fan of the Disneyverse, EU is always canon to me), I see Makashi as the classical music form of lightsaber combat. But that's just me. Incredible job and I look forward too form 3 and beyond.

[@SS4Xani]

Your description of his analysis is also an example of Makashi. :D

[@bakionigeri6414]

Well said. When trying to get people into Star Wars I always tell them; they're six main movies and the legends books.

[@Bastion83]

The animated version of Form II also reminds me of chinese straightsword(jian). I think this is because in the series they can play more with Dooku's versatility as a duelist. Watching Dooku fight(sadly he is the only Form II specialist we meet) reminds me at times of both sides of the Spanish fencer VS Huo Yuen Jia fight from Jet Li's Fearless. Truly beautiful form to behold.

[@midshipman8654]

Bastion83 to me it seems more like western military saber. Which makes sense given Lee’s fencing background and dooku’s curved hilt.

[@matthewcooper4248]

@@midshipman8654 It is absolutely nothing like military saber. Makashi doesn't have the proper cuts to be like it, and military saber almost solely relies on the cut. Later on it implemented more thrusts, but for the majority of history it was solely about cutting.

[@midshipman8654]

Matthew Cooper idk, the Victorians liked themselves some thrusting. If we’re talking about Georgian, sure, but later techniques definitely had a good amount of thrusts. Also, if I’m not mistaken, MILITARY saber only usually refers to the codified, systematic, form of saber for a military (so having a cut 1 cut, 2, etc), especially in the 19th century, so stuff like polish or Hungarian saber are not considered part of military saber. Of course I said Inspired by, not one to one. To be honest it’s probably inspired by epee, foil, or saber given the actors fencing background.

[@watchface6836]

In regards to Count Dooku's square on position with the blade extended downwards, this may be a lightsaber adaptation of the real life "fool's guard" where the blade is deliberately held low in order to goad an opponent into deliberately striking high. Nice work. I'm enjoying the revived lightsaber form series and am looking forward to seeing more of it in the future.

[@omnitool1586]

I like that you are actually referencing some of your sources now. Sources > Wookiepedia descriptions any day.

[@threesofthree6100]

Another style of lightsaber developed exclusively for practice of Makashi is the lightfoil. Designed by the sith of the Mecrosa order, the were characterized by a much smaller and more finely crafted hilt designed exclusively for one handed use almost always in the Makashi style. They were noted for being exceptionally well balanced and nimble, with each one being more of a work of art than a weapon. Fun fact.

[@Rosseroni88]

Finally someone who pronounces Makashi the correct way. These vids are great! Keep it up!

[@EM-nz9hf]

but can't pronounce "studious"

[@Tpwn3d]

@@EM-nz9hf lol I also noticed this

[@juliettek.9440]

Since learning English, that is very much the case.

[@HisShadow]

I find Form 2 and Form 3 to be the best combination. Form 2 gives you the offensive ability to attack your lightsaber opponents one on one very well and if you face blaster wielding opponents or more than one lightsaber opponent you can use Form 3's amazing defense and take them down. It also addresses both form's weaknesses.

[@colemon8596]

Well Makashi is weak against several lightsaber and blaster wielding foes while Soreso is complet defence. Form 3 has no offence attacks but it is difficult to penatrat it's denfences.

[@mortem9126]

Agreed, I actually don't see that as big as a weakness as some make it out to me, at a novice level and some variations of it I do see it being a problem as it is extremely precise, but I find it easily solved

[@colemon8596]

+ryan Towers Well I think that since Count Dooku (sorry if I misspelled his name) is used to the form and he utalized it for years but for trainees who are still learning the form has those weakneses. Also he\she who hasent been using it for a while will most likely will get shot and if facing several lightsaber weilders will most likely get cut down.

[@nicholaspeterman9111]

No spelling errors to be seen. Also, thrusting can leave you exposed from the side if you lack a shoto. There's a lot of thrusting in Makashi.

[@nicholaspeterman9111]

Yalwin Khales Except Shien isn't dueling-focused. Djem So on the other hand is.

[@Nist498]

One thing I absolutely love about Form II is how its presentation throughout Star Wars shows how a form can evolve to fit the changing needs of a modern era. Dooku took the original form and created many Makashi variant and counter moves to reflect and deal with the 5 lightsaber forms that came after. In effect he modernized the form and showed us what is arguably the most refined application of a single form ever seen in Star Wars EU included.

[@maanavallampallam4864]

As a fencer, I know a curved or pistol grip gives huge amounts of control and power in some places. In fencing it allows for more precise bladework and great defense

[@flipkiller8521]

I love how the saber styles correspond to a real world Fencing system. Form 1: Spanish Fencing. Form 2: French/Italian Fencing. Form 3: Kendo. Form 4: Chinese Fencing. Form 5: Yagyu-Shinkage Kenjutsu. Form 6: English Fencing. Form 7: German School of Fencing/HEMA. Jar'Kai: Kali.

[@shozanhanma2709]

Well said!!

[@shozanhanma2709]

It makes sense now why I'm so addicted to form five, I grew up in Japanese martial arts! I'm recently studying French fencing so needless to say I'm falling in love with form 2.

[@galaxiy_2191]

@@shozanhanma2709 It also makes sence how Form II seems so natural to me, i've practiced French fencing for 5 years when I was young

[@billytheconqueror5803]

Form 5 is german Longsword fencing. The stances are almost identical

[@matthewcoates756]

@@billytheconqueror5803Agree with you there. Many Djem So moves are taken straight from Talhoffer, Meyer and Mair. Generic lightsaber moves from the original trilogy are a mix of European Longsword and Japanese Kenjutsu. There are moments when other aspects of swordsmanship enters the lightsaber but the majority is based around Kendo and European longsword.

[@sagesheahan6732]

wow ive missed these Form videos... wow. Am beyond happy you got your channel back.

[@fairytalejediftj7041]

Makashi would serve as an excellent blaster deflection style in many respects: it presents a smaller profile, its bladework is minimalist and precise. All that's required is to alter the angle of the blade presented to the opponent. So I don't see Soresu being developed to answer Makashi's weakness in blast deflection, which was nonexistent; rather, Soresu evolved after Jedi significantly decreased the amount of training time spent dueling to focus on blaster remote regimens.

[@c15page]

From what we can tell, Soresu and Ataru were created for both of the reasons you mention.

[@mortem9126]

Count Dooku actually modified form II to be effective against blasters, just not as defensive, it is in the lore that it is rather weak to it, which is actually understandable if you saw how they defended themselves, they did it by parries and such, things that are not that effective against blasters

[@fairytalejediftj7041]

+Jensaarai1 True. Different tactics. But Makashi offers no particular impediment to defense against blasters, in my estimation.

[@crazyscotsman9327]

Absolutely fantastic metaphore for Makashi's approach to combat you are not bringing the Storm (such as offensive forms like Djem So, Ataru, or Juyo.) or weathering the storm (defensive forms like Niman, or Soresu) you halt the storm.

[@jkthedudeman]

Actually your statement that "Makashi would serve as an excellent blaster deflection style" is incorrect. Makashi does have major weaknesses against blasters. Students of Makashi are taught to be proficient in lightsaber to lightsaber dueling. Not in blast deflection. Therefore, they are not skilled in blast deflection, unless they have supplemented Makashi with another form that is geared toward it, such as Soresu, or Shien. Having a sofisticated defense against lightsabers doesn't translate directly to deflecting blaster bolts. You would need to train in that specifically as well.

[@andrewsinclair9733]

I'm glad you resurrected your lightsaber form channel back

[@stealthboy5767]

*two years ago*

[@matthewmann8969]

A great form for footwork, fencing, one on one combat, and saving energy

[@DarthWill3]

Great analysis, dude! You know, as hard as it may be for you to believe, there are hints that Darth Maul may have also used Makashi to supplement his fighting form: 1. _The Sith was the best fighter Darsha had ever seen. His movement was precise, his control of the Force that of a musician playing an intricate solo._ - _Darth Maul: Shadow Hunter,_ Chapter 30 2. _Maul usually disdained such blunt maneuvers. He is-was-an elegant fighter. Precise. But when he saw his opening, no doubt he remembered my lesson._ - _Episode I Journal: Darth Maul,_ Epilogue by Darth Sidious 3. The Duel of Fates. Seeing Maul pin an opponent's blade to expose an opening, separate the Jedi, and lure Qui-Gon towards the laser gates while "retreating" in a fencer-like manner speaks volumes of a Form II practitioner. 4. In several instances of _The Clone Wars,_ we witness Maul using his lightsaber in one-handed sequences, given that Makashi is usually a one-handed style. 5. _Sidious’s sabers were a blur, a whirling cage of deadly plasma. Maul danced away from one blow, then reversed his movement to avoid another._ - _The Clone Wars: Shadow Conspiracy_ Other possible practitioners would be Darth Talon, Tholme, Valenthyne Farfalla, and Xanatos.

[@unbelievablytrash9458]

Sorry for being a year late to reply to this but in short: Just because they have some similarities, doesn't mean they're the same. Mace Windu was precise in his movements, but he didn't use Makashi, Vader employs hand-to-hand sequences yet doesn't use Ataru or Juyo, Zannah incorporated force-powers into her fighting style however didn't use Niman. See my point? They don't hint at someone's forms, they're hints to their applications.

[@akeembourne9491]

From what I can, it may be possible to apply saber resistant shields to makashi, in order to provide better defensive coverage. Using the shield as an intercepting medium whilst also applying a thrust with the blade might be a viable strategy for a makashi user who chooses to use a secondary weapon other than a shoto. A pistol might also be an efficient weapon for a more underhanded variation of the dualing style. Or even applying kicks to the kneecaps, thighs or shins to offset a more aggressive opponent. Because makashi revolves around the use of one hand, i imagine that it may be applicable to have alternative tools to add a layer of unpredicability without soley relying on the blade itself.

[@avwillis5269]

I'm sure someone else has already brought it up, but it's worth noting that Christopher Lee style was based on his classical training in fencing this also accounts for the design of his lightsaber hilt in that the pistol grip is meant to mimic modern fencing foils.

[@deusvult6900]

Is there a lightsaber form focused/centered around wielding a lightsaber backwards? Or is it just a preference and it adapts to every single form?

[@ZeroRoyale]

I believe it comes from mainly from Form V Shien, but it probably is preference

[@matthewwhite4564]

It is a variant of Form V: Shien

[@matthewcooper4248]

There is no form that is focused on the reverse grip, it's simply a variant of Shien, Djem So. It relies more on deflecting blasters, but still has the power for devastating attacks.

[@tkgwildfire5339]

Honestly holding a blade backwards is almost always a weaker technique than a standard grip.

[@davidthould8281]

Thanks for making the video. i love form II. you explained it very clearly.

[@ctv186]

I remember likely in your older Makashi video's comments section you brought up the light pike as a viable tool for Makashi due to weapons retention training. What're your thoughts on the light pike now? You didn't include it in this video while other lightsaber variants were mentioned.

[@guapocat203]

Love your videos man! The attention to detail, aesthetics of the video, and overall fun of it all came together well in the series.

[@venomrulesall]

I have a feeling one of the reasons Dooku is such a Makashi master, is because Christopher Lee was a skilled fencer.

[@bryguy1502]

In fact, it was because Christopher Lee was cast as Dooku that Makashi was made a duel-centric style. It’s also why Dooku’s saber is curved; Lee was unused to holding thick handles like a broadsword (which lightsaber are based on) and asked that his personal lightsaber prop be changed.

[@fakealias1990]

A shoto in one hand and a lightsaber in the other whilst employing Makashi sounds interesting. It'd be almost like a fencer with a parrying dagger and a rapier.

[@jon636374]

Might be completely off my rocker here. But from where I'm sitting, it sounds like Form 2 and 3 are not that different from each other with regards to blade work, finesse, economy of motion, simplicity etc. it sounds like it wouldn't take much to incorporate the fundamentals of Form 1 and 3 blast deflection into Form 2. Thus balancing out form 2s weakness in that area.

[@ariesstorm9577]

Did members of the Mecrosa Order, known for wielding one handed but well balanced Lightfoils, use Form II or know of the style in any aspect?

[@letthatsinkin7879]

Excellent vid. Thank you!

[@caos1925]

it is surprising to me since we have games like KOTOR, the army of light era and SWTOR where lightsaber battles are common we don't see more makashi specialists.

[@caos1925]

wow you responded really fast, sorry got impatient and posted that before watching through the whole video.

[@anhdinhlamduc5700]

Rowan Atkinson it still hard to learn and you have to fought multiple op and got shot by a bunch of soldiers so i don't think only focus on form 2 is agood idea

[@anhdinhlamduc5700]

Rowan Atkinson still great for dueling so they can learn it with another form but only focus on form 2 then i don't see so many will do that

[@kasen338]

hmmm maybe forms 4 and 5 are new and the knights flock to that rahter then an old form

[@lyconxero457]

Another great video, man! The only thing I would've liked to have seen was a small bit mentioned about other users of the form who have successfully combined it with another form to create something that better suited their personal style like Shaak Ti.

[@AKlover]

Excellent work! Makashi would seem to have it's roots in real Rapier/side sword work.

[@boxhead411]

Such refinement and precision described in the battles we've seen of Tyrannys. Makes him that much likeable as a former Jedi and Dark lord. Christopher Lee was perfect as a live action pick. Would love to see backstories on the republic after the time of Revan and the old empire, the growing ups of Yoda and such. I had the book explaining the forms and timelines all the way to Luke's new order explaining the death of Mara Jade. Awesome literature.

[@iancourouleau777]

This is my absolute favorite form. Your choice of lightsaber combat should reflect who you are as a person, and this definitely does for me. I also want to point out that the Grand Inquisitor from SWR was also a Makashi user, at least by my observation. I certainly can't be wrong, especially if you just watch his style. He was rather good at it, too. Quite a specialist.

[@Phoenix_254]

I believe the current speculation is Makashi and Niman. Makashi would be used when single blade and dueling while he'd switch to Niman when using it as a saber staff.

[@iancourouleau777]

Nathan Fite You're right, I'd agree on that

[@matthewcooper4248]

@@iancourouleau777 Well it's now canon that he used Makashi, but was versed in all seven forms.

[@Wittle_Boyo]

lol. I love how you and the rest of the guys in the council forcecast still refer to the movies as "The Six films." Six.

[@AntoineBandele]

To me, they really are the big six. The story of Anakin's rise and fall. Seven can be argued as his legacy but it really is no longer about him, it doesn't really fit the theme of the saga. Completely missed these last two vids. Gotta go back.

[@joroa7151]

Agreed!

[@fairytalejediftj7041]

Ep 7 doesn't present much that's useful in a discussion of the Fightsaber forms.

[@joroa7151]

Honestly it doesn't present ANYTHING usefull for the saga as a whole...

[@AntoineBandele]

+Rayve Napsu amen to new original movies but that's not gonna make a return on their investment.

[@ThePerrperr]

what a splendid Makashi overview.

[@Mister-Thirteen]

So, not going to mention the Grand Inquisitor's use of makashi? Because he clearly favors the style when making use of a single blade, his foot work and linear approach practically scream it.

[@nicholaspeterman9111]

He already said he would disregard the Inquisitors.

[@Mister-Thirteen]

Nicholas Peterman I can understand that from a narrative perceptive or not wanting to address them in his fight series. But purely as an analysis of technique it makes little sense to avoid a depiction of the aforementioned style just because you want to avoid the user.

[@caleboch8181]

but he's not the only user

[@Mister-Thirteen]

Cale Boch Sure, but by that same logic neither is Doku. & unlike Game characters we have a better visual understanding of his style & method.

[@caleboch8181]

Mr.Northwind the thing is he doesn't have to use him as an example it's his video his channel he can do what he wants if he doesn't want to use a character or timeline that's his choice

[@IamtheWV17]

Makashi is definitely the closest to what would actually be effective with a lightsaber. With the minute amount of movement and power required to injure with a plasma blade a rapier style with a focus on reach and finesse is obviously the best usage against other saber wielders. I'd really love to see a character utilising an offhand defensive short saber like the offhand daggers of the era.

[@SuperWindsage]

hey I love that your having another go at the light saber description and Analysis which is the thing that first brought me to you as WELL as getting me in the Versus series/genera so THANKS for that.so...yeah! ..............................................................................................................................................................................................................excellent job as you always do and the new light of REASONS that make sense on how jedi actually fight and training was primarily based and then sparingly and intermediate bladed battles of all sorts, along with odd ass fights between bounty hunters and excelled killers. Also swords where weight is not an issue but control is, the more focus and similarities on rapier dueling as well parrying, SO MUCH SENSE. and that bit about Static Blocks cause actually need to HOLD and control your blade to handle the recoil of blaster fire. So! !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!before I get out of here, Versus suggestions for the future things to take hold in your mind! after these videos cause these are awesome or whenever.0000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000 /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\Lord Kann V.S. Darth Bane (Brotherhood of Sith vs the Rule of Two Go!!!!)00000000000000000000000000000000000Quin Lan Vos versus ANYBODY (seriously as someone who I know has fought Volfe Karko, Count Dooku, Sora Bolq and a lot of others... the fact that you haven't touched upon him save once in a Council Forcecast makes me Sad!!!! ) against Ventress Perhaps?WAIT!!!!Quin-Lan-Vos V.S. ASHARD HETT, Post Revenge of the Sith, Before ANH.&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&& \//\/\/\/\//\Depa Belada V.S. Sora Bolq, Battle of the failed Masters of Vapad.\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\//\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\Executor Sedriss V.S Inquesitor Jerec. The Post Palpatie Empire V.S. The Current Sideous Empire. ||||||||Any'a Kuro V.S. Tholme. Battle of the Shadowed Masters.anyway just some ideas, as always thank you for the videos!

[@xsstj8063]

you're knowledge is very enjoyable and I have learnt a lot more about star wars over the years so thank you ✔✔👍👍

[@janeghudjars3496]

It is often assumed that Dooku used Makashi at all times, however, Dooku was a master of all lightsaber forms, and used applicable techniques when necessary. Like for deflecting blaster bolts.

[@johnowen9349]

By far my favorite Form. I really like that you don't take the implied weaknesses of the form at face value and give it more thought than that (like with the novel exert that suggested the style needed to be paired with another to be dangerous).

[@sithguy1704]

my favorite form

[@Dimachere]

If Makashi is weak against kinetic strike of Djem So, I do not understand why it is not as weak against Ataru and Juyo/Vaapad which both create kinetic energy in a different ways??

[@darylfranklin5354]

Practitioners of Forms 4 and 7 were often on the offensive at the expense of defense, which can be exploited as Dooku demonstrated in his fights

[@DarthWill3]

Well, you'd need to have either rigorous training or cybernetic strength to make Makashi more kinetic.

[@TheGhostDogg100]

Excellent! Can't wait for the form 5 reboot.

[@ariesstorm9577]

Twin Shoto style hilts, with an interlocking hilt system allowing for both weapons to be connected at the pommel and dual phase settings for both hilts. The perfect weapon for a Makashi and Niman specialist who also uses Jar'Kai. Essentially an Exar Kun style hilt that can be separated into two separate sabers.

[@ironinquisitor3656]

I'd love to see that.

[@Tre_Ason_Number7]

I love you're narrations... Peace

[@kevinnorwood8782]

Interesting to learn that Jerec was a Makashi specialist. But I honestly don't see Ventress as a Makashi specialist. I see her more as a Jar'Kai specialist (even though Jar'Kai isn't exactly an official Lightsaber combat style).

[@talynator3745]

I think dooku holds his saber like he does because he is fighting two opponents and needs to widen his stance to be able to parry well and to draw them in

[@matthewcooper4248]

As a Makashi practitioner, although no means a master of the form, I find it the most disciplined and varied in interpretation. It can be incredibly acrobatic, or incredibly basic. I find that although I am not incredibly skilled because of my lack of experience, duelists using other forms are often defeated by simply blocking and going in for a quick thrust. Also, I personally do not like the curved hilt. It keeps the blade straighter for a more effective thrust, yes; however you actually lose power in the cut, which is incredibly important for potential cross-cutting, but also for a regular attack.

[@chrisflowers6989]

Count Dooku didnt just use a squared form of a makashi, it was a taunt because if im not mistaken he leaves himself open from the rear

[@mortem9126]

Great video! Only thing I would of liked to see is maybe at the end of your video basically a round up of the strengths and weaknesses of the form

[@ariesstorm9577]

While attempting to gauge which lightsaber form was being used by Darth Bandon, I noticed something interesting in one of the clips depicting his fight with Revan. In this particular video he appears to advance while delivering an attack but immediately steps back while delivering a defensive blade flourish. Could this advance and retreat technique be his attempt at integrating Makashi into his personal style? Or could it simply be a Ben Kenobi style Form III tactic like we see him use against Vader onboard the Death Star? In the end I think I labelled Bandon as a Darth Maul fanboy: similar but nowhere near as proficient a fighter. His Forms being Makashi (based on the back and forth footwork I mentioned), Ataru (based on the feats that bear a resemblance to Saber Swarm and Hawkbat Swoop/Falling Leaf techniques) and Niman (as a means of mastering the saberstaff) as the basis for his personal variation of Juyo. And despite that second blade he was still easily outflanked, engaging one of Revan’s allies while Revan attacks from the side and cuts the Sith apprentice down.

[@edcliffe2988]

This was a particularly interesting video for me, as my Star Wars character can dance and has intentions of using her skills as a base from which to learn Makashi. But she also has designs on constructing a saber staff, so it seems that she may have to simply incorporate a few Makashi maneuvers into a personalized version of Niman.

[@viktorbarkovski2226]

Star Wars with Halo music isn't half bad...

[@Hypercat0]

I still think learning Form 2 Makashi to a Masters degree and Form 3 Soresu to an Specialists degree is what i would do. I know myself pretty well and Stamina is definitly not my Forte. So i let Economy and Precision be my Weapon.

[@jondysnach]

Nice video can't wait to see the rest of them. mostly some of my more favourite styles xd:P Niaman and Juyo might be waiting a while anyway good luck and love your work:)

[@sanjurohanamizuki6181]

I have never sen these detailed before .. but I feel like the creators of these in the Star Wars mythos , read the Go Rin No Sho by Miyamoto Musashi .. I'm quite fascinated being a student of Katori Shinto Ryu , and familiar with the styles of other schools of iai

[@Cannon361]

A good and informative video with accurate information. Thanks.

[@Renzuru21]

The best form for me. It's core Philosophy of "economy of motion" has won me fights in FMA

[@wolfgod6443]

Now I'm curious as to how many jedi and sith in the old Republic used Makashi. The lore tells us that many used the form (in fact George Lucas described Dooku as "old school" for his use of Makashi), but I have yet to see any prominent figures in KOTOR or the MMO use Form II. Someone please point them out, because right now it feels like both sides were fools not to have used it more often with so many duelists around.

[@creeperkiller78]

Jensaarai1 how would you describe the offence/defence percentage of makashi?, 50/50?, 40/60 leaning towards defence?

[@Storyman09]

ultra ranger I believe Jensaarai described Dooku's fighting style as something along the lines of a push and pull probing offensive in one of his vs videos with Dooku, don't remember which one though. I think given Dooku's expertise and showings of the form as well as others that we can safely say it was quite balanced as a fighting art. Though it was noted in several sources that at lower levels of skill with the form it was mainly defensive and was required to be paired with a more aggressive form, which makes sense given that the Jedi would likely have wanted trainees and padawans to be able to defend themselves first and thus taught them the defensive movements and principles first. Ultimately, though we can generalize, everyone uses a form or martial art (applies to real world martial arts too) slightly differently and have different mindsets and approaches to their fighting style based on their own personality as well as life experiences. Plus, Makashi users trained to develop unique offenses and defenses within the overall style in order to avoid "defeat from the unforeseen." So, depending on who's using it Makashi could be 50/50 or 40/60 or 60/40 or any other percentage split, though I think most Makashi stylists would remain pretty balanced given Makashi's optimization.

[@ironmanrock1]

One can perform stabs with a saberstaff. It's not hard. Hold staff with both hands in an overhanded position on the weapon. Hold out in front of you. Sweep up with lower blade, knocking or manipulating opponent's blade out of the way. Stab with the same blade.

[@rayden120]

Digging these new video's on the forms.

[@filipinogopnik4161]

i think shii cho as the base foundation mixed with the fluidity and precision of makashi mixed with the solid defense of soresu and the aggressiveness of djem so with the sun ma principles of ataru mixed with the force abilities with light saber techniques style like niman then the anger of juyo is implemented in soresu and makashi.

[@firetarrasque4667]

I can't believe you ta!led about VENTRESS without mentioning how"SHE IS A RATTATAKI FROM RATTATOR, NOT A GOD DAMN DATHOMIRIAN!"

[@Soriichi]

I'm currently writing a starwars novel about revans life. would you like to read a copy?

[@maxkogan3785]

That labyrinth quote can be applied to Savage Opress.

[@cultofmalgus1310]

+Jensaari1 I am curious if there was ever a Jedi or Sith of normal stature that preferred to use a single shoto saber for combat. If you know of any please share with me. I am wondering if I am just weird for preferring to spar with a single shoto saber lol.

[@cloudftw113]

NERD IT UP If memory serves, the Sith Lord, Freedon Nadd used a shoto as a primary weapon. That is only speculation however due to the lack of material featuring him during his life.

[@raphaelhanna8345]

I think Makashi is a form that fantasy elves would not only excel in greatly but it's a form they would very likely prefer over most other forms

[@Account-lu9ej]

Love your work mate. I have a request though, could you do a video on Pong Krell's combative prowess? I know it's hard due to no 1v1 combat stats but there are so many opinions flying around I'd love to know yours.

[@OceanHedgehog]

Due to its thrusts, stances, single-handed grips, and footwork emphasis, Makashi could be analogized to rapier fencing. It makes sense, then, that you suggest a shoto as an off-hand weapon, because historically daggers or bucklers was used by duelists in their off-hand.

[@kujawanator]

You know it’s funny, I fell in love with the form and for a while thought it to be my personal favorite based off what I saw in the live action movies. My first big criticism of TCW when I watched it was “that’s not how Dooku fights,” until I read more descriptions of the form and learned that’s a more accurate Makashi representation. Is there particular literature or media that discusses the “classical” vs. “contemporary” subclasses? I thought that was very interesting to be brought up here. Because the contemporary form, with its elegant windmill strikes and occasional spins captured my imagination. And I loved the brief battle between Yoda and Dooku in Episode II, almost sad it was so brief. It boiled down to Makashi’s speed of blade vs. Ataru’s speed of self

[@theryanjester7209]

If I were a Jedi I would definitely specialize in Makashi. It has a large focus on precision and energy efficiency while making sure you don't overextend yourself. This is also one of the reason why I love Soresu. I believe the best offense is a good defense and if one were a master of Makashi and Soresu and did not allow themselves to be enslaved to form I doubt anything could take them down.

[@toastedtarts4044]

I don’t know all the details of star wars but darth vader would be notable too. His makashi form looks more about power and it does make sense with what you said. The users have to develop unique techniques. I might have missed it, but why does count dooku stray from the feet lined up with saber vertical and facing opponent when he’s considered traditional? He did have feet square to opponent and light saber off to the side.

[@t14dann18]

So…. There are no sith, and there is a Jedi master who insists on becoming expert in the form that is specialized for attacking other people with lightsabers…. And the Jedi still didn’t think Dooku would go bad (facepalm)

[@quangtrungbui675]

well...imagining Dooku's career in both Sith and Jedi ones. Being one rare duelist to match Yoda outside Windu, being a capable dueling teacher who leads by powerful examples even compared to Battlemaster Cin. As a Sith, he fucks Skywalker and Kenobi with relaxation until ROTS, fucked many capable masters, easily playing around with Yoda and Windu, even Sidious and classic Ventress. Having over 60 years as the top-tier duelist until his death. Yea...ol' Dooku deserves better view. And also Vader, though he's already too bad-ass with his Makashi-heavy Djem So in duels

[@plutoreturns9630]

I believe Darth Vader focused on Makashi heavily during the Jedi purge as he would be dueling lightsaber wielding opponents several times in this period.

[@ironinquisitor3656]

He certainly learned the style and incorporated it into his Form V style.

[@Access.Denied]

is there any proof of what darth traya said about form 2 that it helps resist the force attacks of ones opponent? i think this particular aspect of makashi is greatly overlooked despite it being the only form of lightsaber combat associated to a species resistant to the force - ysalamiri. i'd like to hear how others interpret this.

[@rueryuzaki4035]

Jensaari, do you have any ideas of how Makashi can counter Djem So? I am just wondering if there are any tactics that Makashi duelists can do against a Djem So duelist.

[@Storyman09]

Rue Ryuzaki I believe in the Revenge of the Sith novelization Dooku mentions using footwork to outmaneuver a Djem So stylist and attack from an advantageous position (because of the generally seen weakness in mobility displayed by many Djem So stylists) as well as sweeping or otherwise kicking or damaging the leg (in the novelization Dooku attempted to break Anakin's leg/his stance with an ankle sweep).

[@Phoenix_254]

Dejm So has a major issue where their footwork is flat to generate power. Fighters generate power starting in their feet, going into their body and out the method of attack. This means the body is generating the force of impact, not just the arms and hands. However, that means the Dejm So user is committed. The benefit of committing is that the hit hits hard. But they can't easy pull back as soon as the miss, or overextend. A Makashi user could take a couple steps back and then lunge to cover the distance after the strike and stab the Dejm So user. However the ultimate factor is the skill level of the users. A master samurai will beat a novice fencer. However put them on an even skill level and then their styles and weapons become relevant.

[@cholderh2129]

Luminara Unduli vs Shaak ti should be the next versus video

[@dylandarnell3657]

Personally, I suspect Dooku's performance in AOTC was less pure Makashi training and more him seeing two weakened, formerly-captive Jedi and deciding to play with his food.

[@raphaelhanna8345]

The idea that dual wielding with makashi would work better with a shoto in the off hand makes sense given that the form is based off of rapier fencing which has the same risk when dual wielding and therefore a dagger was used in the off hand I actually intend on creating my own star wars stories with a character that uses such a fighting style

[@philipchurch8772]

I love that you referred to Jerec. Is Sariss a makashi specialist too? A vs with her would be cool.

[@14dcook]

curious about what you think of a fighting style like this: form 2 with added force speed and push applications to batter and wear down an opponent in an attempt to either make them too weary to fight or too tired to defend properly

[@quangtrungbui675]

1:28 I think I just saw Dooku's blade tip disappearing when hitting Kenobi and before Kenobi push it away. If he had worn lightsaber resistant armor, the cloth still has char. Now that's creepy.

[@freyahanmore7374]

looks cool, how does assj ventress vs jax pavan sound? I mean as a vs short, and do you thank it is a good fight?

[@nicholaspeterman9111]

Ventress thrashes Jax based on my knowledge f the two. Ventress went toe to toe with council members.

[@crazyscotsman9327]

I cannot wait for Djem So and Shien's video! :D

[@Canadianvoice]

Is tha halo music in the background?

[@lukepirie8473]

Why halo music in the back ground??

[@reginaldtyroneshort]

Dooku considered only Mace and Yoda as his equal with a blade. Would’ve loved to have seen him vs Mace.

[@Charles36.]

Form one basic. Form two duel me. Form three defense. Form four lots of flips. Form five power strike block baster. Form six mix it up. Form seven idk that shit wild.

[@ariesstorm9577]

A rapier or sabre style hilt with a hand guard made of phrik alloy would make for a beautiful Makashi lightsaber, with a lightsaber shoto as a parrying dagger

[@dennisw.truman3325]

You only need one light saber.

[@forcedgaming3102]

I duel with my friends with lightsabers all the time, I use ultrasabers.com, and I use makashi primarily because I'm a skinny and only moderately strong person and this form is the most effective in my opinion

[@maddoxsoles1544]

Real good description

[@MrMarinus18]

I don't view Makashi as inherently inferior to Djem So, just different. In the dueling arena Makashi has no equal and will win but that's only in the sterile environment of a dueling arena. In the dirty and chaotic atmosphere of the battlefield it doesn't work quite as well and the simpler and more powerful Djem So tends to win out. Of course that doesn't mean that Djem So can never defeat Makashi, that all depends on the skill of the swordsmen. I have some doubts it was ever particularity common as it's so specialized and isn't all that useful when it really matters.

[@Phoenix_254]

I agree about Makashi and Dejm So. They're just different. I can see it being fairly common during the old republic and the war between the Jedi and the Dark Brotherhood. The old republic had the sith and jedi fighting each other for long stretches at a time, so mastering a dueling focus style would be advantageous for any jedi or sith expecting to fight the other. That being said, it probably wouldn't being more popular than other styles given its focus. I'd say it'd be as common as the other forms.

[@MrMarinus18]

The problem with Makashi on the battlefield is that even if you´re a superior swordsmen it takes a little while before you kill your opponent. On an open battlefield and especially when outnumbered that can allow others to get the drop on you. Makashi just doesn't have a high enough damage output for the rapid pace of a heated battlefield. I think that was the reason Djem So was developed in the first place. To get a lightsaber technique that could defeat lightsaber opponents just like Makashi but that got results faster.

[@Keeginator117]

Again, great video. Form 2 is defiantly my favorite form so if i were a jedi padawan my master would probably try to dissuade me lol. But i do think that the only think truly required to master blaster-fire deflection is practice, and having an energy-efficient, quick and linear form as a basis would be perfect to as you say "personalize the style". As to which other more aggressive style it should be paired with, i think the best would be form 5, for the aforementioned deflection training and a heavy handed style good for crow control. Cin Drallig all the way!