Form VIII: Sokan

"It's over Anakin. I have the high ground!"

- Obi-Wan Kenobi

Sokan was a form of lightsaber combat.

Developed by the ancient Jedi Knights during the Great Sith War, Sokan combined tactics that allowed for evasion and mobility with the kinetic motions of Form V combat. Sokan involved swift strokes of the lightsaber, which were aimed towards the opponent's vital areas, in addition to quick tumbles and movements. Combatants made use of large amounts of terrain, trying to maneuver their opponents into vulnerable areas during the course of battles that involved Sokan techniques.

Although it was unclear whether Obi-Wan Kenobi received formal Sokan training or not, the Jedi Master did employ elements of Sokan while dueling Anakin Skywalker (then Darth Vader) on Mustafar. Towards the end of the duel, Obi-Wan sought the high ground and used his favorable positioning to defeat Anakin, attacking his weak points. This was eventually one of the factors that led to Anakin's defeat, and, in his battle against Luke Skywalker on the Second Death Star, may be a reason why he threw his lightsaber when Luke got the high ground instead of going after him.

Sokan was made an official lightsaber form for these advantages.