The concept of a crossguard lightsaber was first introduced in Star Wars Legends, but it first appeared in the 2004 comic book Republic 61. In the canon, it first appeared in the 2015 film Star Wars: Episode VII, The Force Awakens.
Kylo Ren perfectly represented this unique lightsaber, which has one primary blade and two small vents below it, opposite each other on the hilt. His crossguard lightsaber is unique in design and functionality.
Let’s delve into how this saber is uniquely designed and its functionality, and compare this unique blade to others so that when you think of buying a replica version, such as Kylo Ren Neopixel Saber, you truly feel proud of your purchase.
The Design
Kylo Ren’s lightsaber is immediately recognizable due to its crossguard design, which includes two small lateral blades, or quillons, jutting out from the main blade at the hilt. This design is not merely aesthetic but serves several practical purposes. The crossguard emits from vents on either side of the hilt, functioning as a byproduct of the unstable kyber crystal that powers the weapon. Unlike traditional sabers that use a single, stable kyber crystal, Kylo Ren’s blade uses a cracked crystal, resulting in an unstable and flickering blade. The lateral quillons help vent the excess energy, preventing the hilt from overheating and providing a defensive feature in combat.
The hilt itself is rugged and almost archaic in appearance, reflecting Kylo Ren’s tumultuous nature and his fascination with the ancient ways of the Sith. It is constructed from a combination of scavenged parts and customized components, giving it a raw, unfinished look. This is a stark contrast to the sleek and polished designs of other lightsabers wielded by Jedi and Sith alike.
Functionality
The functionality of Star Wars Kylo’s crossguard lightsaber sets it apart in several ways. The unstable blade, while visually striking, also affects the weapon’s performance in combat. The flickering and crackling blade is more volatile and less predictable than the smooth, steady blades of traditional lightsabers. This volatility mirrors Kylo’s own unstable and conflicted nature, making the weapon an extension of his persona.
The crossguard design also influences combat tactics. The quillons can be used to catch an opponent’s blade, providing a defensive advantage. They can also be employed offensively, allowing for unexpected strikes and making it difficult for opponents to predict their movements. This versatility in combat makes the crossguard lightsaber a formidable weapon in the hands of a skilled duelist like Kylo Ren.
Additionally, the weapon’s construction with a cracked kyber crystal presents unique challenges and advantages. The raw power emitted by the unstable crystal can cause more damage upon impact, but it also requires the wielder to exert greater control and mastery to handle its unpredictable nature. This aspect of the lightsaber aligns with Kylo Ren’s character arc, as he struggles to harness his immense power and balance the light and dark sides within him.
Symbolism
Beyond its design and functionality, Star Wars Kylo Ren’s lightsaber is rich with symbolism. The weapon is a physical manifestation of his inner conflict and his desire to forge his own path, which is distinct from both the Jedi and the Sith. The cracked kyber crystal represents his fractured identity and the instability of his allegiance.
Unlike his grandfather, Darth Vader, who wielded a traditional red lightsaber as a symbol of his Sith allegiance, Ren’s weapon is an embodiment of his struggle to live up to Vader’s legacy while also attempting to create his own.
The crossguard design itself harkens back to ancient lightsaber prototypes, such as the ones used during the time of the Great Scourge of Malachor. This connection to ancient Sith traditions underscores Ren’s fascination with the past and his attempt to revive what he perceives as the true essence of the dark side. However, the unstable and imperfect nature of the lightsaber also highlights his incomplete understanding and mastery of these ancient traditions.
Furthermore, the crossguard lightsaber serves as a narrative device that underscores his development throughout the sequel trilogy. In “The Force Awakens,” the weapon’s chaotic energy and crude construction symbolize his raw power and internal turmoil. As Ren’s character evolves, the lightsaber remains a constant reminder of his origins and the personal and ideological battles he faces.
Comparison to Other Lightsabers
Compared to other sabers in the Star Wars universe, Kylo Ren’s crossguard blade stands out for its unique combination of design, functionality, and symbolism. Traditional lightsabers, such as those wielded by Luke Skywalker or Obi-Wan Kenobi, are characterized by their elegant and efficient designs, reflecting the Jedi’s focus on precision, control, and harmony with the Force. Sith sabers, like Darth Vader’s, are similarly sleek but exude a sense of menace and power, aligning with the Sith’s philosophy of domination and aggression.
Ren’s saber, on the other hand, defies these conventions. Its rough, unrefined appearance and unstable blade reflect a departure from both Jedi and Sith traditions. The crossguard design, while reminiscent of ancient prototypes, is a novel addition to the modern Star Wars narrative, adding a layer of historical depth to Kylo Ren’s character.
Moreover, the crossguard saber’s practical advantages in combat, such as the ability to catch and counter an opponent’s blade, set it apart from the more straightforward designs of traditional blades. This feature makes it a versatile weapon that can adapt to various combat scenarios, highlighting Kylo Ren’s resourcefulness and combat prowess.
Conclusion
Ren’s crossguard sabers is a unique and multifaceted weapon that distinguishes itself from other lightsabers in the Star Wars universe. Its distinctive design, rooted in ancient traditions yet marked by modern innovation, its volatile functionality that mirrors its wielder’s inner turmoil, and its rich symbolism make it a standout element of the sequel trilogy.
Through this weapon, the Star Wars saga explores themes of identity, legacy, and the eternal struggle between light and dark, adding depth and complexity to Kylo Ren’s character and the broader narrative.
