Fightsaber: Mastering the Art of Lightsaber Combat

This combat form arose as an answer to blaster technology. As compact laser pistols became the standard carried weapon in the galaxy, the Jedi responded not by picking up "clumsy and random" firearms, but rather, refining their abilities with the energy blade to neutralize the advantage blaster-equipped enemies enjoyed. Through Form III, a Jedi can open up his or her senses and effectively block incoming blaster strikes with a lightsaber blade. Because of its focus on short, economical movements that provide complete coverage from incoming strikes, Form III saw applications as defense against both ranged and close attacks. Form III emphasizes reducing a combatant's target area, as opposed to some of the more far-reaching, open styles.

For example, Obi-Wan Kenobi employed Soresu when dealing with the whirlwind lightsaber attacks from General Grievous. This proved advantageous as it kept his defenses close to his body -- a wider defense would be very dangerous to employ against four incoming lightsabers.

Form III is also called the Way of the Mynock and the Resilience Form. Because of its focus on defense, Soresu is not a strong offensive technique. Jedi who focus on Soresu at the expense of other forms find themselves at a disadvantage when attempting to defeat an opponent.