Is the Lightsaber Throw a Canon Move in Star Wars?

The lightsaber throw, popular in many Star Wars games and media, is not an officially canon move featured in the main Star Wars films. However, it has appeared in some expanded universe content, including animated series like Star Wars: The Clone Wars and Star Wars Rebels.

Appearance in Expanded Universe Content

In the context of canon, the lightsaber throw is considered a technique that both Jedi and Sith can perform, but it is not a central or frequently showcased ability in the films. It is more often depicted in games and other media as a means of combat and strategy, allowing characters to engage enemies from a distance. Characters like Ahsoka Tano and Kanan Jarrus have utilized this technique in the animated series.

Canon Usage

The lightsaber throw did appear in more official canon in certain instances:

Return of the Jedi: Darth Vader throws his lightsaber at Luke Skywalker during their confrontation on the catwalk. This is considered a canon usage. Revenge of the Sith: Yoda impales a clone trooper by throwing his lightsaber point-first through the trooper's chest. Star Wars Comics and Animated Series: The lightsaber throw has also been depicted numerous times during the Clone Wars animated series and in comics.

First Canon Appearance

According to many Star Wars fans, Darth Vader is credited with the first canon use of the lightsaber throw in Return of the Jedi. This move appears as a desperate last-chance tactic by Vader rather than a trained ability he regularly employs.

The second official canon use of the lightsaber throw is seen in Revenge of the Sith when Yoda impales a clone trooper. This move showcases the versatility of the lightsaber as a weapon, capable of striking from a distance with precision and force.

Subtleties and Mechanics

Some Star Wars enthusiasts inquire about the mechanics of the lightsaber throw, particularly how the blade remains activated once thrown. In the films, lightsabers generally deactivate when dropped, but in episodes like The Last Jedi, we have seen that a saber can be ignited using the Force. Additionally, one could imagine a highly skilled Jedi using a Force grip to return a saber mid-throw, much like in certain games.

The inclusion of the lightsaber throw in Star Wars games and expanded universe content often serves to enhance the combat dynamics and storytelling. While it is not a frequently used move in the main films, it remains a fascinating element of the Star Wars universe, reflecting the unique and versatile nature of the lightsaber as a weapon.