STAR WARS JEDI KNIGHT: JEDI ACADEMY
Mastering The Staff: 101
By: Deathshard
X-Box and PC
1.1 Table of Contents
1. Introduction
1.1 Table of Contents
1.2 Legal Junk
1.3 Version History
1.4 About the author
1.5 About this guide
2. Basics
2.1 Introduction to the Guide
2.2 What is the Staff?
2.3 Acrobatic Basics
2.4 Basic Attacks
2.5 Advanced Attacks
2.6 Lightsaber Locking
3. Combat
3.1 Applying the basics
3.2 Combination Attacks
3.3 How to fight with the Staff
3.4 Force Powers
3.5 Hilt
3.6 Defense
3.7 Attack Precision
3.8 Use of Environment
4. Staff Versus Styles
4.1 Introduction
4.2 Staff Against Standard
4.3 Staff Against Duel
4.4 Staff Against Staff
4.5 Force Exploitation
5. Conclusion
5.1 Tips
5.2 Wrap Up
1.2 Legal Junk
This is the legal junk to "Mastering The Staff: 101." Basically, don't
plagurize.That's naughty. That's VERY naughty.Stealing crap from
my FAQ without giving me any credit is pretty bad too. Don't do it.
If you'd like something submitted, e-mail it to me and I will update
it promptly. Otherwise, bugger off.
e-mail address:
[email protected]
Copyright © 2005 Deathshard. All Rights Reserved®
1.3 Version History
v 1.00 - Mastering The Saber 101
1.4 About the Author
I am a veteran of Jedi Academy. Those who have played with me
will remember thisas my gamer tag. I have been complimented by
the greatest players many times as the best Staff wielder they have
ever seen. Some, have even called me the best player. Those who
know me know I don't have any rules in my games, they are always fun,
and I am never a dark force user, or "Lightning Whore." I am strictly a
Lightsaber combatant, and that's the way I like it. I'm not trying to brag
here, I'm simply letting you know that you are learning this material
from the best in the field. You are in good hands with me, my young
Padawan. And I take great pride in your training.
1.5 About This Guide
This guide is written with the basic assumption that you know how to
play the game. By this I mean you know the basic controls, know
what a Lightsaber is, and you know how to hold a controller.
(Mouse and Keyboard for PC version.)
This guide will teach you all you need to know about mastering the
most underrated and insanely lethal weapon in Jedi Academy: The
Staff. I will teach you how to handle this weapon effectively, and
through practice you too will become ownage in its finest form.
2.1 Introduction - What Are The Requirements For This Course?
Welcome, prospective Jedi Knight to your orientation of "Mastering
The Staff: 101." This course is intended to take an otherwise green
Jedi Initiate and turn him into a Jedi Staff Master. You will learn to
wield a very precise. fun and deadly weapon: The Staff.
You will learn to use this weapon in several forms.
First, you will learn the basics of the force. I will teach you the art of
Jumping, Dodging, Pushing, Pulling and channeling the force to attack
and defend at your full discretion. You will learn acrobatic moves esential
for using the Staff in its most damaging form.
From there, I will teach you basics of handling the Staff.
You will learn its attributes, how it compares to other
weapons, and basic attacks to get you started in training.
Then, you will learn advanced tactics to help you demolish
lesser opponents of all shapes, sizes, colors, creeds and species.
Pretty soon, with dedication and training you will earn the rank
of Jedi Staff Master and you will punish foes with impunity.
The requirements for this course are simple.
- You own an X-Box with Live support, or a PC with internet support.
- You own a copy of Star Wars Jedi Knight: Jedi Academy for either
PC or the X-Box.
-You know how to read.
- You are Force Sensitive.
Alright, are you ready to get started? I hope you've crafted your
Staff, because you're soon going to come to love it. You will
share a relationship with it like no other. You will never let from
your side, you will learn to trust it, rely on it, and come to admire it.
Eventually, you will want to sleep with it and marry it. (Ok, don't get
THAT attached to your Staff.)
Ready? Let's get started....
2.2 What is the Staff? What makes it the best weapon?
That's a great question. Allow me to explain...
"The Lightsaber is the weapon of a Jedi Knight. It's not as clumsy
or random as a blaster. It is an elegant weapon for a more civilized age."
As stated by esteemed Jedi Knight Obi-Wan Kenobi, the
Lightsaber is more than
a weapon: It is a symbol. When a Jedi crafts his first Lightsaber
he is automatically initiated into a life of dedication,
ightiousness, virtue and peace. The Lightsaber is a
constant reminder of the peace the Jedi is sworn to
uphold, and the Lightsaber, along with the force, is
going to be thetool to accomplish this.
The mystery of the Staff is unknown. It is believed to have
existed well over Two-Thousand years before the time of
the Galactic Empire, and its very rootsare traced back
to the birth of the Sith. Many believe the Staff was a
devestatingweapon based on intimidation. When a
Sith lord would wield his Staff on the battle field,
he was an icon knownto be feared: Many Jedi
would feel threatened and frightened, and lose
their connection with the force. This allowed the
Sith to demolish opponents easily wielding this
devestating weapon.
Others believed it was developed in the time where
Jedi were fluent, and they would
have to face multiple advesaries at one time.
The extra blade allowed for swift, fluid
movement and better defense against foes.
Whatever its origin, there's no doubt that a Staff
wilder is an exceptional warrior; he
is fierce, swift, deadly and has trained a lifetime to
handle such a dangerous weapon.
You too, will become this warrior.
The Staff, like its standard counterpart, is comprised
of a beam of energy that is
channeled through specialized focusing crystals found
on Dantooine. Unlike the standard
saber, the Staff utilizes two focusing crystals, allowing
an extra beam from the opposite
end. The hilt is slightly modified in length, making it
possible for the Jedi to wield the
weapon without the beam endangering
himself.
What is the Staff's role in Jedi Academy. you ask?
The Staff has several advantages and one disadvantage in Jedi academy.
First and foremost, the Staff is the fastest weapon in the game. Speed is
the greatest asset. A Staff wilder is capable of stringing together multiple
combos on his opponent, work his way around an opponent, defend
not only his front BUT his back, and attack in ALL directions by
simply facing ONE direction.
The Staff is also the best weapon for penetrating an enemy's defenses. The
weapon can be used in defense as well, but it shines the most through
aggressive force. The game has an auto block, so the most a player has to
do is stand still and he will be able to deflect 90 percent of the attacks
directed towards him. The Staff however, is able to tear through these
defenses like butter. Through speed and maneuvers, the Staff can chain
together attacks to catch a player off guard, and while he is defending
one spot, in merely an instant, the opposite blade is attacking his
open and vulnerable point.
Third, the Staff allows you to utilize all your acrobatic
maneuvers to their fullest extent. When facing a Standard
wielder, you will need to rely heavily on flipping and rolling.
The staff allows you to simultaniously attack a player while
evading his attack at the
same time, which is basically defined as a counter attack.
The staff is the best weapon
for counter attacking. And, when you strictly play based on
counter attacking, you can
walk away with full health WITHOUT having to heal. That is of course,
if you use the weapon
effectively.
The Staff has selection to the biggest amount of offensive
styles in the game. With the Staff
alone, you have an assortment of fighting styles to play
with. However, by switching off one end,
you have a medium-stance standard saber at your
diescretion, allowing you to not only throw the
saber, but fight in a completely different way. Believe it
or not, the medium stance, if used correctly,
can break through Staff opponents easily.
The Staff has INSTANT KILLS galore. You will find that
many times when you are fighting opponents
you will get one hit kills. That is because the Staff is the
most precise weapon, and can slice an opponent's
neck with ease.
The only disadvantage to a Staff is that it is not as strong
as Duel Wielding (Which deals 2x the damage)
or the Standard (Which is devestating at Heavy Stance.)
However, just because it doesn't deal the same
amount of damage doesn't mean it isn't stronger. As I said
before, the Staff relies on speed. And speed in
this case, is better than strength. By stringing together combos
and attacking your opponent aggressively,
you can lower his health nearly completely in only a matter of a
few moments.
2.3 So, what are the basics?
In order to effectively use the Staff, you're going to need to learn
the basic acrobatics, as I will outline, rate and describe its
usefulness below.
JUMP
Jump button
(Rating 4/5)
This is the most basic of moves, and one I find myself
using quite often. By tapping the button, you will do a bunny
hopping. From there, depending on how hard you press
the jump button, and depending on what your Force Jump
is set to, you will jump higher. This is useful when a
Standard saber use is using a Heavy Stance. Considering
he is slow, you will see his attack coming and you
can jump clear right over it.
JUMP FROM KNOCKDOWN
Hold Jump button while on the ground
(Rating 2/5)
This is a move you're going to need. When knocked on the
ground you are left vulnerable to jump stabs, which are
instant kills. By quickly holding the jump button, you will
hop back to your feet. The reason I rate this so low is
because as a Staff user, you are not supposed to be
getting knocked to the ground. If you did, you are doing
something wrong. Once you use the Staff effectively,
you will find yourself knocked down less often.
JUMP KICK FROM KNOCKDOWN
Forward + Jump (HOLD) while on ground.
(Rating 4/5)
If however, you decide to be deceitful, you can use
falling as an advantage. When knocked down and
an opponent is in front of you,
Jump Kicking up will knock him back, bring you to
your feet, and leave him vulnerable to
your attacks. I have performed many lethal strikes
this way.
FLIP
Direction + Jump and hold
(Rating 5/5)
This is probably my favorite move. While jumping is
stationary, a flip occurs while you are running. With
enough force, you
can traverse great distances and height in a matter
of moments. The best thing about this is its counter
attack potential. By attacking an opponent,
and immediately flipping, you can land behind him
before he knowsit and slice at his vulnerable point,
dealing tons of damage. You
can also flip to the side if you find yourself back
into a corner, and you can bring yourself to tactical
advantages. You're also goingto be using it when
you have a Lightsaber thrown at you. I strongly
recommend flipping A LOT.
LONG JUMP
Run + Force Speed + Jump
(Rating 2/5)
Only useful on FFAs or Single Player. It just allows you to jump
further. Necessary on the Taspir Landing glitch trick, which will
allow you duel on the building and mountain.
ROLL
Direction + Roll Button (Tap right thumbstick.)
Rating (5/5)
Use this A LOT. Not only can you deliver stabs which I will
outline below, but you find this most effective when running
low on health and you've really got to start concentrating
on evasion. Rolling allows you to position yourself
quickly behind an opponent, as well as avoid his
attacks and saber throws.What I like to do is
rush an opponent. As he is rushing me, I'll roll
to the side. This puts him behind me. Quickly,
I'll spin my Staff (Will outline later) and get off
a nice, clean attack on him. This will usually knock
off around 20-30 points of health. When falling from a high
ledge, roll before you hit the ground to soften the blow.
Rolling is also useful when you are on the ground, as you can avoid
stabs this way. But, you shouldn't even be on the ground, remember?
RUN UP WALL (BACKFLIP)
Run to wall + Double Tap Jump (Hold, let go to backflip) + Force Jump 3
(Rating 3/5)
I just like this move because it's fun. However, it's also useful for
catching your opponent off guard. If he is chasing you, run up the
wall, then tap A to backflip. You will land behind him, and you
can slice him up. Other than getting to a high ledge, no other use.
SIDE RUN ON WALL
Forward + Jump while next to a wall + Force Jump 3
(Rating 1/5)
Other than being another fun move, I haven't found any use for this.
I suppose it'll be helpful in fighting a standard user, but I've never
had an opportunity where this was a necessity. The only thing
I can see it being useful is for passing a mine or something.
WALL GRAB
Forward + Double Tap Jump (Hold) while jumping/falling to wall
+ Force Jump 3
(Rating 5/5)
This is a really cool move. By jumping towards a wall, you grab
onto it, hold yourself there, and jump in any direction. This is useful
for getting up to a high ledge, for surprising an enemy,
or when being throw off of a ledge. If being thrown off of a ledge,
and near a wall, immediately GRAB the wall. Then, force jump
back to a safe ledge. (Press Pull to gain more momentum as
you are jumping)
As far as acrobatics go, this is all you're going to ever need.
Jumping, Flipping and Rolling are the most essential moves
when fighting with a Staff.
So LEARN TO USE THEM EFFECTIVELY.
2.4 Basic Staff Attacks
This is where I cover the basic attacks with the Staff. Some
you have seen or heard of before, others you have not. I have
discovered new attacks by myself and worked with them to perfect
them. You will find some of these in the Advanced Section, covered
next.
This is just a basic description of the attacks. I will go in depth on
how to use these when fighting later.
VERTICAL SLICE
Forward/Backward + Primary Attack
(4/5)
This is the default attack. You can do this by just holding the attack
button if you have to. You're going to be using this. Often, but not
as often as...
HORIZONTAL SLICE
Left/Right + Primary Attack
(5/5)
This is the main attack of the Staff. By using a horizontal slice,
you can combine 1 Vertical, 2 Diagnal and a Horizontal slice
for a four hit combo. More on combos later. You are going to
be using this a lot. Use this to slice at an opponet's head and
feet.
You are going to be using this to defend as well.
DIAGONAL SLASHES
Up/Down + Left/Right + Primary Attack
(Rating 5/5)
These are the most devestating of the basic attacks. By constantly
running at your enemy, and facing forward, you can string off a Left
Slash and a Right slash constantly, break his defenses and kill him
in a few seconds. Use these when an enemy feels cornered and
keeps backing off.
Necessary for a strong defense. Swats away thrown lightsabers.
STAB ENEMY ON GROUND
Forward + Attack while enemy is on the ground.
(Rating 5/5)
Pretty self explanatory. When an enemy is on the ground, you will
jump in the air and stab him. Usually one hit kills.
ROLLING STAB
Direction + Roll + Primary Attack
Rating (5/5)
This is a great, great attack. Highly lethal and most of the time, will
deliver one hit kills. You'll find in the begining it will be hard to pull off
Rolling Stabs while your opponent is aware.
However, once you have trapped him in the environment (As I will
teach you,)
you will find this quite useful. The best use of this, however, is when
a Duel Wilder is using Twirl. Position yourself to his side and Roll
Stab him. Not only will you avoid his twirl, but you will deal a huge
amount of damage to him, and maybe even kill him. WARNING:
Do not use this tactic on a "High Sensitivity" twirl. They are
impenetratable to a Rolling Stab and they are instant death.
Instead, throw your lightsaber or avoid altogether. High
Sensitivity is a tactic used by cheap players who feel
that increasing their sensitivity will make them better.
This just makes them easier to kill as they are not directing
attacks, and just spinning around. However, their twirl is deadly.
KICKING
Alternate Attack + Direction of Enemy
(Rating 1/5)
Do NOT use these, under any circumstances. They leave
you very vulnerable, are slow, and are only really useful
with Jump Kicking. They knock an enemy on the ground,
but because of the delay this puts you right in front of him.
He will flip up, and knock you down. These are just bad
attacks that should be avoided at all costs. Your Staff is
the only weapon you will ever need.
BACK FLIP ATTACKING
Primary Attack + Back + Flip
(Rating 5/5)
Very useful with Standard and Duel wielders. You will slice
the enemy in the head
while you backflip to avoid damage. Use often.
2.5 Advanced Attacks
Remember, these are just descriptions of the attacks.
I will teach you how to fight later. However, it's
necessary to know the attacks and what they do.
First and foremost, I do NOT recommend using the
Attack Kata, The Twirl or the Butterfly at all. Only, and
I loosely use the word "Only" in specific situations, will
these attacks, known as "Specials" come in use.
Specials leave you very vulnerable to attack and use up
very valuable force points. Many people exploit specials,
and this is their failing. When you learn how to chain and
combine basic attacks effectively, you will not have a need to
use specials. However, I'll give these attacks their due credit.
TWIRL
Crouch + Forward + Primary Attack
(Rating 2/5)
I rarely use this. You can only remain stationary and a
Rolling Stab to your back will kill you instantly.
You can also be force pushed off ledges.This uses nearly
half of your force points. The only situation you should use
this is if you have backed your opponent into a corner. When
he is standing still, end a combo string off with a
Twirl, and you will kill him instantly.
BUTTERFLY
Forward/Left or Right + Primary Attack + jump
(Rating 3/5)
Another one that leaves you very vulnerable to a Lightsaber
throw or being pushed off of a ledge.
Although, Darth Maul made this look cool, and it is. I will
admit however, that it is useful against a standard opponent
or when evading an attacking. If you want to use it offensively,
Butterfly forward, rather than to the side.
While running at an oppononent, make sure you are looking
at the top of your character's head
(By moving the camera forward) then initiate this attack.
Instead of butterflying to the side, you will tear
right through him, and usually kill him instantly.
SPINNING KATA
Primary Attack + Alternate Attack
(Rating 2/5)
This attack is very bad. Unless you have multiple opponents
around you, never use this.
This leaves you very vulnerable to a rolling stab, lightsaber throw,
or being pushed off of a ledge. After the kata, choose
your direction and you will roll, then you can end with a stab. If I
ever did use this, it was a defensive tactic to get somebody
off of me.
BACK STAB
Back + Primary Attack when enemy is behind you
Rating (5/5)
Very deadly. People will tell you to never put your back to an
enemy. That's not the case with a Staff.
In fact, you are probably most damaging to an enemy when he
is behind you. Simply stab him for an
instant kill, or you can slash behind you, spin around, and deliver
a blow to the back of his head.
STAFF SPIN
Strafe Left/Right + Camera Left/Right in opposite direction + Primary
Attack
(Rating 5/5)
Very damaging. Use this to your fullest extent when stringing
combos. Your character will spin
his Staff over his head and turn in the direction of the opponent.
Use this when somebody is behind you, to the side,
or to surprise him. This breaks through defenses easily and works
the best after a five hit combo.
When you see your character spinning his Staff,
try to aim for your opponent's neck, head or legs. Attacking in
either of these places will prove to be
lethal.
This is also a great defensive tool. It will catch your opponent
off guard.
LIGHTSABER THROW
Change Stance + Alternate Attack
(Rating 3/5)
The only offensive force power you should ever use. Use this
when an enemy is in a twirl or a special. This hurts them,
not much, but it does.
PULLING THROW
Change Stance + Alternate Attack + Force Pull
(Rating 5/5)
Don't let people fool you when they tell you they invented
this. People will get pissed when you use this against
them, because they are pissedthey never thought of
it, and they will claim ownership of it just to escape the
embarassment of being killed by this easy move.
The truth is, a friend and I developed this and since then,
it has spread through Academy
like wildfire. I try not to use force powers, but if it's a necessity
use this and unless they are using Absorb,
this will ALWAYS hit. You will pull an enemy into your
thrown lightsaber and deal HUGE damage. Very good
attack.
PULL SLICE
Force Pull + Horizontal/Vertical Slice
(Rating 5/5)
Pull an enemy into your lightsaber slice. Very lethal, usually
instant kills. Use this if an enemy is running from you, or
if he is right in front of you.
ROLLING SUSHI
Roll + Vertical Slice + Horizontal Slice
(Rating 5/5)
I call this "Rolling Sushi" because that's what it reminds me of..
Chopping up sushi. An enemy is completely vulnerable to this
attack. Simply roll to him, and instead of stabbing,
Horizontal slice him, then string together some vertical
slicing combos. He won't know what him him, and he will
die... He will die quickly.
If there's some I forgot or I'm still working on, I will add them in later.
Try to learn how to do all of these moves, and practice. That's the
only way you'll ever get better.
2.6 Saber Locking
Saber Locking is a random thing. It usually occurs when two
players attack the same spot at the same time. From here,
your saber will lock with the opponent. The object is sort of like
arm wrestling. You will have to force your opponent's saber back
so you can slice
him for sometimes instant, and always heavy damage.
The standard method is to constantly hit the primary attack
button, and you will slice through your opponent's head.
However, my method ensures you will win Saber Locks
100% of the time.
Now, I can't put it in this guide because... Well, if it gets o
ut then it's going to be constantly exploited. It will ruin saber
locking. E-mail me and I will tell you personally, if you already
don't know. Some people do know of this already, though.
3.1 Now that I have the basics down, tell me how to apply them
It's one thing to know the moves, but it's a totally different thing to
apply them. This section will tell you how to apply these attacks,
on each and every style you will face. Basically, you're
going to learn how to fight, and you will learn how to fight deadly.
3.2 What are combos?
Combos, otherwise known as chaining, are a combination of
attacks in a fast, and swift amount of time. Instead of just
slashing once, then slashing again, and then slashing again in
the same way like many action games. Jedi Academy relies
on combining your attacks. The Staff relies on this more than
anything.
Combining your basic attacks is going to be your main damage
dealer. When learning how to combo effectively, you won't need
to ever use specials or force powers. Your Staff will be the strongest
weapon in this game, and you're going to want it that way. I'll tell you
how to peform some combos, and also some nice damage dealing
combos.
Let's start with some basic combos I use myself...
Horizontal Swipe Left - Horizontal Swipe Right -
Diagonal Slice Right - Diagnonal Slice Left
This is going to be your most basic of combos. This is
done while an enemy is facing you. You are always going to
be using this combo, and you are going to be using it in repitition.
This combo not only has a bonus to defense, but it also tears
through your opponent's. The trick with this is to always be
facing your opponent. If he tries to circle around you, follow him,
but follow him WHILE swinging the staff. By doing this,
you will always have the advantage over your opponent.
Eventually, he will start to become
overwhelmed at back off.
Diagonal Swipe Left - Diagonal Swipe Right
This may not seem like it, but this is a devestating attack.
Only use this when directly facing either your opponent's front or back.
This is to be donewhile running at him. Remember,
make sure you are always facing him, and you are chasing him.
With this combo, he will usually try to backpedal.
However, you are slicing through his defenses. This will kill them
in a few moments if all strikes connect, and it only takes a few hits.
Just constantly repeat this
pattern.
Horizontal Swipe Left - Staff Spin - Horizontal Swipe Right -
Staff Spin
Ouch. This really hurts. Use this when your enemy is circling around you.
You will find that this attack is very damaging to an opponent. The trick
with this one is it's a defensive
combo, but it's also an advantage for offense. By spinning your
Staff, you ensure your enemy won't be hitting any opening spots,
and by combining with the Swipes,
your enemy will be in a world of hurt. Use this a lot.
180 degree Staff Spin - Vertical Swipe - Horiztonal Swipe To Legs
This is when an enemy is behind you. By spinning completely
around, you will catch your opponent off guard, slice him in the head,
then catch him in his feet. This usually is an instant kill string.
This is why you WANT enemy's behind you.
These are the basic combinations I use. The trick is to use
them all in succession with each other. That is, use the same
set of combos, but alternate their patterns. For example, if you
open up with the first combo, try spinning your back to the enemy.
Now, open up with the last combo I describe. Catch my drift?
The trick to combos is to finding what works the best for you.
You're going to find that if you are always on your game,
if you don't hesitate and you follow your opponent step to step,
you are going to overwhelm him. A lot of players take a few slices, then
back off. That's not the case with the Staff. You need to always be
on top of him. Everybody says, "Man, you're real aggressive."
That's the way it has to be.
The only way to fully understand combos is to experiment.
Take the strings I have told you and play around with them.
For instance, take a Diagonal Slice out of the first string and replace
it with a Vertical. Now, take the last string and instead of a Vertical Swipe,
why not another spin?
You're going to find that by studying your opponent's moves,
and keeping up with him, you can unleash any string of combos you
desire.
People in this game have the basic misconception that "Spinning"
in full circles around an opponent is going to kill him. That's not the
case. The trick is to direct ALL of your attacks and string them together.
Not only does this make your defense strong, but your
offense will be strong as well.
Never end a combination after the sequence is done. STRING them
together. Make your combos unlimited until you or your enemy backs
off. Always, ALWAYS be attacking your opponent when in melee range.
Mirror him. If he spins behind you,
face him.
I recommend opening up a multiplayer game and experimenting
on a stationary enemy.(For instance, on X-Box start a split screen
and play by yourself)
This is best to practice your combos on.
3.3 So, what's the best way to fight with a Staff?
The way you fight your opponent is going to differ
depending on what weapon he is using. But, the
basics apply to everything.
- ALWAYS BE ON YOUR GUARD.
When in the midst of battle, never hesitate. Never
end a combination after the sequence ends. Just
open up with a new combo. Eventually, you will
overwhelm your enemy. The number one killer of
warriors is hesitation. Never freeze, always be alert.
Go with your instincts.
-STOP RUNNING AWAY. ADVANCE YOUR ENEMY.
If you start running your opponent will get the assumption
you are running low on health. Instead, always ADVANCE
him. Your opponent will always start to run after a while.
Then, he will get the impression he is doing no damage to
you, and you will know you are hurting him. People tend to fight
better when they know they are winning.
Others, get too careless. The trick is don't be too careless.
Give chase, but use common sense.
If an opponent asks you how much health you have left, lie.
Tell him you have 80. It doesn't matter if
you have 20. It's all about playing with your opponent's mind.
If he knows he is losing and you are overwhelming him, he will
give up hope most of the time, and lower his guard.
-DEFEND.
Lightsaber defense is automatic, but to an extent. You
actually have to physically match your beams to your
opponent's to deflect his attacks. Watch him,
know where he is striking, and never leave
yourself open to his attacks. Remember, if you are being
aggressive he will try to defend. Use this to your advantage.
When defending, backpedal with the Diagonal Slash combo.
You will deflect all his attacks.
Once you see him vulnerable, advance again. Remember,
always face your opponent. You have
better defense this way.
-EVADE
Overwhelm your opponent by speed. Flip over him, roll
behind him, run up walls. Anything you can do to get
the jump on him. Most players can't keep up with a fast paced
Staff wielder, and that's the way it should be be.
-LISTEN TO YOUR OPPONENT
If you hear screms, and your health didn't drop,
you know you've harmed your opponent. This is
usually a good driving force to deliver more
devestating attacks. You will find what works
when you listen to your opponent. By knowing
which attacks hit, you will know his weakness,
and from there you can exploit it.
3.4 Ok, so what Force Powers should I bring with me?
This is a complete Staff wielding guide. Hence, I do
not use the Dark Side. To fully demolish your opponents,
you are only going to bring four powers with you, and
they will be light side. I will put an additional fifth power
on here in case you'd like to use it. It all depends on your
style.
FORCE PUSH
You are going to need this. When an enemy is in a special,
it's a great way to push him off of a ledge or to an
environmental advantage that you can use. Also, you can
push advancing enemies away from you.
FORCE PULL
You will need this for throwing your saber and pulling running
enemies to you. I don't use it that often, only when necessary
FORCE ABSORB
This is a MUST HAVE. You will more than likely be facing
Dark Side opponents who constantly exploit Lightning,
Grip and Drain. Fortunately, your enemies are most vulnerable when
using powers. Just turn on Absorb and this fully negates their offensive
force powers, leaving their only method of attack strictly to saber,
in which in this case, they are not using. In other
words: They are defensless. One or two combos to a
Lightning user and he will more than likely die.
FORCE HEAL
You really shouldn't need this, unless an enemy is draining you,
or you are drastically low on health. Hey, you might be the best
but anything can happen. When I ever do use this I only
use it once per battle. That's all I'll ever need. You can only use
this when you have at least 50 force points. So, be wary.
Use health only when you reach below 40 hit points,
you can still win with only 50 points.
FORCE SENSE (OPTIONAL)
In case you are facing a Light Side mind trick opponent.
This will make them visible to you.
You'll only need to use one bubble for this, that's all you're
going to need. It also increases your blocking
slightly.
FORCE SPEED (OPTIONAL)
You can fill two bubbles of this. Useful for jumping,
and if you want to be faster
while fighting, then use it. However, your combo
accuracy isn't as strong.
If it's a no force powers game all the better for you.
Your opponent's can't use force,
and it makes them easier to kill. Your auto attack and
defend isn't as good, but that won't matter as long as you
follow what you've learned so far.
3.5 What hilt should I choose?
This doesn't matter. The hilt determining the length of the Staff
is just a myth. I personally use a Purple Guardian because it
looks "Cool." Other than that, it's just your personal
preference.
3.6 What are some of the basics of Defending?
Defending is automatic, but to an extent. You're going to
need to always be on guard.
Always swing your saber when an opponent is attacking,
and try to determine where he is striking.
Standing still gets you killed. It's always better to face your
opponent, but when you
are, BACKPEDAL and open up with a Diagonal Slash combo
string. You will block all of his attacks.
If your opponent is behind you, spin your staff as you spin
yourself around, then open
up with some more attack combos.
Remember, the best defense is a massive offense, in which
case, you have.
3.7 Where should I be striking?
There are four lethal areas: Head, Neck, Torso and Legs.
Clean neck and head slices are usually two to three hit kills,
if not instant. You can
get these off with either Vertical Slices for the head, or
Horizontal Slices for the neck.
Chances are the torso will be the majority of your hits.
Opponents take a while to kill
with torso slices, but not torso stabs. Rolling Stabs into
the torso will kill them quickly.
Legs are where you should be aiming all of your swings.
the Staff is the best weapon for
sweeping the legs, as after one blade slashes you follow up
with the other. Legs are very hard to
defend and more often than not you will kill your opponent in a
few moments.
When you start to direct your attacks rather than just twirling
your staff around like the
Fat Star Wars Kid, you will notice a drastic change in your
dueling record.
3.8 Using Your Environment
You're going to find this most effective with your Staff.
When backing enemies into
corners, or between rocks and other objects, you will
have the advantage. For instance on the
Imperial Control Room, I find leading enemies between
the generators makes it easy
to slice through them in only a few seconds.
Look around you. Get aquianted with your surroundings.
When in doubt, push and pull
opponent's between objects. If you are on a ledge, push
your opponent to a lower one you
can get a tactical advantage on him.
Never let yourself get back into a corner. You will be
practically asking to be
slaughtered. Instead, use the environment as your offense.
4.1 Using The Staff Against All Opponents
Your style of fighting is always going to differ depending
on your opponent and style.
I will first seperate this in the Staff against other forms,
and then I will show you how to
counter and face force exploiters.
First and foremost, always adapt your fighting style to your
opponents. You're going
to need to know who you are facing, and the strengths and
weaknesses of all the weapons,
in which I will describe.
4.2 Staff Against Standard
When you are facing a Standard user you know one thing:
They will use Heavy Stance.Heavy Stance is very dangerous
to a Staff wielder, as it can knock your Staff right out of your
hand, leaving you vulnerable to attack. What's more, is it's
very hard to defenda heavy strike. Instead, you're going
to need to rely on your wits and your acrobatics to survive
this one.
Personally, I feel this is the easiest of the saber duels.
You can destroy an inexperienced
standard user in a few seconds, when you know your
opponent:
-The standard has three stances. Fast, Medium and
Heavy. Fast is a short ranged attack, with
quick and very low damaging blows. I honestly don't know
who would ever use this. I haven't found
it effective at all, only in defense. The medium stance
is the most well
rounded as best aspect of the Saber. It reaches further
than the fast, and it's faster than Heavy.
A medium saber versus a heavy saber will win no
contest. Heavy Stance is very slow, but very powerful.
It will knock the staff from your hands and is what
everyone will be using.
-Generally your opponent will stick with Heavy Style. T
his is better for you, as it is easy to avoid and to counter.
When facing a standard user and he is in heavy,
switch your Staff to standard. Now, your
defense is better compared to the Heavy.
Also, you will add an element of surprise.
When fighting the heavy user watch his attacks.
When he is about to swing, either flip
over him or roll out of the way. Don't try to block.
Next step is to evade and attack at the same time.
Take one or two slices onto your opponent, flip out of
the way, then repeat the process. You will come off
unscathed and always dealing damage. The key is to constantly
rush and back off, rush and back off, rush, attack, back off.
Now, the trick here is surprise. When you see your enemy
finish his swing quickly rush in. Slash him twice then pull
out the Staff and open with a combo string. If timed correctly,
this will kill him instantly.
Speed and evasion is what matters here. Your opponent
has the power. YOU need toevade his power and counter attack.
Always be alert, always roll and and always jump. Jump and attack,
roll and attack, etc.. Don't carry out long combos. Keep your slashes
to three to four hits, then back off. Your opponent will be too slow to
strike you.
Also, try the pull throw technique. Considering he has only one
saber, he is very vulnerableto this. Use it to your advantage.
If your enemy knocks your lightsaber out of your hand, try to
lead him in front of it. By doing
this, when you pull your lightsaber back to you, you'll slice him.
This deals good damage as well.
Just remember to always avoid, and be a lot faster.
4.3 Staff Against Duel
My favorite fight, as these are always fast paced. When
facing your opponent know a few things:
-He deals 2x the damage. When you are hit, you will hurt.
-Do NOT stay behind him for too long. He will attempt a Back
Slash, which is very deadly.
-Their lightsaber throws hurt. When they throw a saber at you
either jump, roll or backpedal and diagonal slash.
-A lot of these people like to exploit twirl, this is the
perfect opportunity to roll stab.
These guys fight fast, but not as fast as you. You
should always be able to keep up with a
duel wielder. His defense is slightly better than a
heavy standard user, but he is not as strong.
When fighting a Duel Wielder, remember to always
face him. You can handle and direct your
weapon with a lot more accuracy. The duel opponent's
slashes are all based in particular patterns.
Use this to your advantage. Match his attacks and
counter with an unsuspected
combo string.
The duel wielder will always spin around you. Mirror him,
try to get him in the sides and a direct
assault if possible. Remember, when you are behind them
they will deliver a back slash to you.
This is very painful. And most of the time, you will die instantly.
If your opponent is using High Sensitivity, then don't worry.
It should be an easy fight. More than
likely, he will spin in circles. This brings him off guard, leaving
you the opportunity to strike him accordingly.
If he goes into a Twirl, however, do your best to avoid it.
Watch his his front twirl. When this happens, roll behind him,
and send a combo string to his legs.
More often than not, this will kill him instantly. Rolling stabs also
tend to work.
These battles should be pretty simple. If you keep the combo
strings up, this fight shouldn't be a problem. Just remember
to avoid his back slash and lightsaber
throw.
4.4 Staff Against Staff
These will be the toughest fights you will find. What's hard about
these fights are the fact it's hard
to block a Staff with another Staff. The main reason is because of
the comno strings. It's difficult to block
both of his blades, considering they will be hitting two different
points in rapid succession.
The biggest thing you need to watch out for here is the combos.
You're going to find your enemy
circling around you a lot, and dealing damage at the same time.
What you are going to have to do is learn
how to predict your opponent's moves ahead of time.
You're probablygoing to be hit a lot, but more than
likely your opponent is not a skilled Staff user,
and you will use thisto your advantage.
Your enemy will probably exploit Butterfly to its fullest.
More that likely, he is going to butterfly while directly
in front of you. When this happens, back off and
throw your Staff. You will hit him, and hewill think twice about
doing that again. As I said, specials make you vulnerable,
and this is a fine example.
The trick to winning this duel is to outclass your opponent.
You both are using the same weapon,
but you use it better than him, and hopefully for you he
didn't read this guide. If you string together a series
of Diagonal Slashes while facing him, he's going to have a
hard time keeping up. Diagonal slashes are tough to
avoid while wielding a Staff, and chances are he won't
know what him him.
The legs are the most vital here. Move around your enemy,
but don't carelessly swing. Target
your attacks to his legs. Open up a Horizontal Slice
combo on his legs. He will try to block at his legs,
leaving you the perfect opportunity to spin your
Staff to his neck.
One of the best things about fighting a Staff wielder
is you know when he's going to throw his saber.
The minute he switches to standard, back off. He's
about to throw. If you time it just right, you can knock
the saber out of the air. From there, hurl yours and this
fight should be close to an end.
Just remember to always be on your guard, and
be AGGRESSIVE. Try to outmatch your
opponent and you will win with ease.
4.5 What if my enemy is exploiting force?
Whether you can use a Staff efficiently or not,
your enemy is going to be using some
degree of force powers. (If the match is set on force.)
And more than likely, your enemy will be using Dark
Side force powers. This is why you will be choosing Light Side.
With Absorb, any force powers he uses will be utterly useless,
and aid you in destroying him much faster.
Let's go through the different types.
LIGHTNING
When your enemy uses Lightning, hit Absorb. You may
take some damage, but at his rate he is giving you force.
Force enough to heal yourself anyhow.
While in Lightning, his guard isdown. This is the perfect
opportunity to rush in and slice him up, or toss
your Staff. You can also tell when an enemy is about to use
Lightning by his backpedaling. Just turn on absorb and go at him
from there.
Many people like to open up fighting with Lightning as well.
This will make you want to turn
on Absorb at the start of the battle.
GRIP
When you are gripped, immediately turn on Absorb.
You will drop back to the ground,
and your enemy has a small recovery delay.
This leaves him vulnerable to attack. Use it to your
advantage.
DRAIN
This one is annoying. By the time you get Absorb on,
some of your force has been drained and your enemy
is healed. However, he shouldn't be getting much, so he will
more than likely try to drain you again. However, since Absorb
is on he will be getting no health, and you will have more force.
MIND TRICK
This is why I recommended bringing Sense. Just turn
that on and you will see him no problem.
If you forgot it, however, it's ok. Stand still and
SLOWLY move the camera. Watch your character's head,
and he will face the direction of your enemy. This gives away
his position and you can attack him for long.
Also, mind trick doesn't last very long. If you want to run,
feel free to, turn on Absorb, and go at him again.
HEALING
The most annoying thing in the world. If you have a
healing exploiter, and you aren't
dealing much damage to him at once, he will never die.
There are healers out there who heal everytime
they get enough points, just to remain with full health.
What's worse is when you have two healers, and the
battle will never end.
My best advice is to disregard what I said about Force,
switch to Dark Side and take Drain.
Now, exploit drain on him. NOT to give yourself health,
but to get rid of his force points. Without force
points he can't heal. From there rush him with your
combos, and after every string, drain again. The key
is to always be draining him so he never has enough
points to heal. With this method you should win the fight
with ease.
ABSORB
Not a problem to you, he's just waisting force powers.
This just means no pulling or pushing. Oh well, you don't
need that anyway. Have fun slicing him up.
With these methods you should never have to complain
about force powers. I find when an enemy
uses force powers it is to your own advantage, thanks to
Absorb. Enemies always die quicker when they
rely on the force. Rememeber: the Staff is your best
weapon.
5.1 Tips
- Practice often, it's the only way to get better. When
you decide to take a break turn your game
to a Bot Match. Let your bots fight each other.
The bots in this game work the same way you do. Practice.
The more your bots fight and gain experience, the better the
AI will become. This allows you to practice your Staff on bots
and ensure they are at a good enough level where you will
actually gain something from fighting them.
-Never get too confident, because eventually you will make
a mistake that will get you killed.
-Learn how to defend and defend well. Knowing how
to match your opponent's attacks will
drastically lower the rate at which you receive damage.
- Learn to use combos efficiently. Expand on the ones
I have told you, and develop your own.
The Staff works the best when strung together with a
combination of attacks rather than a few.
-Adapt your fighting style to that of your opponent's. If
he's using a heavy saber stance,
use the standard medium stance on your Staff.
-Learn to roll and jump A LOT.
-Don't rely on, or use specials. They leave you vulnerable and
will get you killed. You don't need them.
-Heal if you get too low, but don't exploit it. Nobody likes that.
-Play with etiquite. Be curteous. If somebody doesn't want
to play a match with force powers,
show them the honor. It's always more fun when you're
playing a friendly game.
5.2 Wrapping Up
Well, you've done it. This is end of the basic guide. You
are officially a Jedi Knight.
This is the first version, and I will be constantly updating
with new tips and strategies I have developed, and
also for anything that slipped my mind I feel that you
should know.
With this knowledge, you know have a full concept of
the Staff's strengths and weaknesses.
You know what to do, how to do it, and most importantly
how to kill... Quickly. Remember, only through
practice will you ever achieve perfection. I don't expect
you to
immediately go out and be good with it now, but you have
the basic understanding of how to improve upon
what you already know.
Good luck, and I hope to see you in game, my young Knight.
