Cal Kestis, the compelling protagonist of the popular video game Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order, is a figure of immense interest within the Star Wars community, particularly for his unique and adaptive approach to lightsaber combat.
Surviving the catastrophic purge of Order 66, Cal Kestis’s journey from hiding former Padawan to a full-fledged Jedi Knight is marked by significant personal and combat growth.
This extended analysis delves deeper into the intricacies of his lightsaber techniques, their symbolic meanings, and how they align with his evolution throughout the game.
Background of Cal Kestis
Before discussing the specifics of his lightsaber styles, it’s essential to understand Cal Kestis’s background.
Originally a Padawan to Jedi Knight Jaro Tapal, Cal Kestis’s training was prematurely halted due to the execution of Order 66.
Forced into hiding and suppressing his connection to the Force to survive, Cal Kestis’s initial fighting style is rusty and somewhat unrefined, heavily relying on basic instincts and whatever remnants of formal training he retained from his early years.
Exploration of Cal Kestis’s Lightsaber Forms
Cal Kestis’s journey in Jedi Fallen Order is not just about survival but also about reclaiming and completing his Jedi training.
This progression is mirrored in his evolving lightsaber skills, which move from elementary techniques to more sophisticated and powerful forms as he regains his confidence and connection to the Force.
Form I – Shii-Cho
Shii-Cho, the first form of lightsaber combat, is known for its simplicity and basic movements, which make it ideal for clearing space and dealing with multiple enemies.
Cal Kestis starts with this form, reflecting his reconnection with his past and the foundational skills of a Jedi.
It symbolizes his starting point—raw and somewhat unpolished, yet effective enough to keep him alive against lesser foes.
Form III – Soresu
As threats grow and Cal Kestis encounters more skilled Imperial adversaries, he adapts Form III, Soresu, into his repertoire.
Known as the defense form, Soresu is perfect for Cal Kestis‘s situation, emphasizing survival and defense against ranged attacks, a common threat from the Empire’s forces.
This form demonstrates Cal Kestis’s growing strategic acumen, showing his ability to turn defense into a strategic advantage, keeping him alive to fight another day.
Form V – Shien/Djem So
Adopting Form V, specifically the Djem So variant, marks a significant turn in Cal Kestis’s journey, reflecting his shift from defense to a more aggressive, assertive stance.
This form allows Cal Kestis to effectively redirect attacks back at his enemies, using their energy against them.
It is particularly symbolic of his increasing mastery over his fears and the external challenges he faces.