What are the laser swords in Star Wars called?

In the expansive universe of Star Wars, the weapon that stands out as a symbol of both hope and terror is the lightsaber. Often referred to as a laser sword, this iconic weapon is a staple of the Jedi and Sith, wielded by force-sensitive individuals throughout the galaxy. But what exactly makes the lightsaber so legendary? Let’s explore the history, design, and significance of this iconic weapon, as well as its role in the Star Wars movies and expanded universe.

What is a Lightsaber?

A lightsaber is a weapon consisting of a plasma blade powered by a kyber crystal, contained within a hilt made of metal. The blade, which emits from the hilt as a glowing, colored beam, can cut, burn, and melt through almost anything. The color of the blade typically depends on the type of kyber crystal used in its construction—Jedi typically wield blue or green lightsabers, while Sith wield red ones, often enhanced by synthetic crystals.

While often referred to as a "laser sword" by those unfamiliar with its design, the lightsaber differs from traditional laser weapons in that it is a blade of pure energy. It can deflect blaster bolts and even block other lightsabers in combat, making it both a weapon of offense and defense.

The Kyber Crystal: Heart of the Lightsaber

At the core of every lightsaber is the kyber crystal. These rare, Force-sensitive crystals are usually found on remote planets like Ilum or Jedha. The crystal is crucial because it channels the energy to form the lightsaber blade. When a Jedi constructs their lightsaber, they must undergo a journey to find a kyber crystal. This is often a rite of passage for Jedi Padawans. The crystal’s color reflects the nature of the Jedi or Sith who wields it, with red being the color of the Sith due to their synthetic creation of the crystals.

In the case of the Sith, their red lightsabers are created by artificially "corrupting" or "bleeding" the kyber crystals, a process that imbues them with anger, hatred, and power. The act of bleeding the crystal makes it glow crimson, which is why Sith lightsabers are commonly associated with this distinct color.

Different Types of Lightsabers

Over the years, there have been numerous variants of the lightsaber used by Jedi and Sith, each tailored for different purposes or combat styles. Some of the most notable include:

1. Standard Lightsaber
   The traditional one-bladed lightsaber is the most common and recognizable form. Most Jedi and Sith wield this type of saber, using it in combat, as a tool for cutting through obstacles, and as a symbol of their order.

2. Double-Bladed Lightsaber
   Popularized by Darth Maul in The Phantom Menace, the double-bladed lightsaber features two blades extending from each side of the hilt. It allows the wielder to attack from multiple angles, making it a deadly weapon in skilled hands. Maul's saber is one of the most iconic lightsabers in Star Wars lore.

3. Crossguard Lightsaber
   Introduced in The Force Awakens with Kylo Ren’s unique saber, the crossguard lightsaber features an additional pair of smaller blades extending from the hilt in a crossguard formation. This design was meant to act as a safety feature and to provide extra offense, but it also reflects Kylo Ren’s unstable emotions and erratic power.

4. Shoto Lightsaber
   A smaller version of the standard lightsaber, often used by Jedi like Ahsoka Tano, the shoto is a short-bladed lightsaber that offers greater mobility and quick, agile movements in combat. It is especially useful for practitioners who specialize in acrobatic forms of lightsaber combat.

5. Lightsaber Pike and Saberstaff
   These weapons are longer and more specialized, used by Jedi or Sith who prefer to fight with polearms or similar long-range weapons. The saberstaff, notably wielded by Darth Maul, is similar to the double-bladed saber, but with a staff-length hilt for greater reach.

Lightsaber Combat Styles

The art of wielding a lightsaber is far from simple. Jedi and Sith alike practice various combat styles that differ in technique, speed, and philosophy. Some of the most notable styles include:

• Form I: Shii-Cho – The most basic lightsaber form, focused on wide, sweeping strikes.
• Form II: Makashi – A form centered on precision and counterattacks, often used in duels.
• Form III: Soresu – A defensive form designed to deflect blaster bolts and withstand prolonged combat.
• Form IV: Ataru – A highly acrobatic and aggressive form, favored by Jedi like Yoda and Obi-Wan Kenobi.
• Form V: Shien / Djem So – A power-based form that focuses on aggressive, counter-attacking strikes.
• Form VI: Niman – A balanced form that incorporates both lightsaber combat and Force abilities.
• Form VII: Juyo / Vaapad – The most aggressive and unpredictable form, associated with the dark side of the Force and used by Jedi like Mace Windu.

Iconic Lightsabers in Star Wars Movies

In the Star Wars films, lightsabers are central to the conflicts that shape the galaxy. Here are some of the most iconic lightsabers and the characters who wield them:

1. Anakin Skywalker’s Lightsaber
   First wielded by Anakin in Attack of the Clones and later by Luke Skywalker in Return of the Jedi, Anakin’s saber is perhaps one of the most iconic in Star Wars history. Its blue blade is a symbol of the Skywalker family’s connection to the Force. After Anakin’s fall to the dark side, the lightsaber became a symbol of hope when Luke used it to defeat the Empire.

2. Luke Skywalker’s Green Lightsaber
   After losing his father’s saber, Luke constructs his own lightsaber in Return of the Jedi. This green blade reflects his maturation and his role as the new hope for the galaxy. It also symbolizes his departure from the old traditions and his embrace of new ways.

3. Darth Vader’s Red Lightsaber
   Darth Vader’s lightsaber, first seen in A New Hope, is perhaps the most well-known of the Sith’s weaponry. Its red glow embodies the corruption of Anakin Skywalker, and the lightsaber itself becomes an extension of his dark power and domination.

4. Yoda’s Lightsaber
   Yoda’s lightsaber is unique not only because of its size—Yoda being a diminutive species—but also in the way he uses it. His fighting style is a mix of wisdom, agility, and finesse, using the Force to amplify his strength and speed in battle.

5. Obi-Wan Kenobi’s Lightsaber
   Obi-Wan’s blue lightsaber is a symbol of the Jedi Order’s commitment to peace and justice. It is seen throughout the trilogy as a key weapon in the battles against the Sith, particularly during his duels with Anakin in Revenge of the Sith.

6. Kylo Ren’s Crossguard Lightsaber
   Kylo Ren’s unstable and fiery lightsaber perfectly represents his volatile personality and the chaos within him. The crossguard design is both functional and symbolic of his fractured relationship with both the light and dark sides of the Force.

The Expanded Universe and Fandom Influence

In the expanded Star Wars universe—encompassing books, comics, games, and fan creations—lightsabers have become much more than just weapons. They have become symbols of identity, power, and personal struggle. For example, in Star Wars: The Old Republic, players can create and wield a variety of lightsabers with different crystals and modifications, further expanding the lore.

Lightsabers also inspire countless fan creations, from detailed cosplays to fan fiction, and have become a significant part of Star Wars fandom. Lightsaber battles are a staple of fan events and conventions, where enthusiasts gather to recreate famous duels and engage in mock combat.

Conclusion

The lightsaber is more than just a weapon in the Star Wars universe. It is a symbol of the values, struggles, and histories of the characters who wield it. Whether it’s the blue blade of a Jedi Knight or the red glow of a Sith Lord, the lightsaber has come to represent the ongoing battle between light and dark, and the choices that define who we are. It’s a symbol that will continue to inspire fans for generations to come.

If you're a fan of Star Wars, consider adding a lightsaber to your collection—whether it's a replica or a custom creation, the legacy of this iconic weapon will always be a part of Star Wars history.