Form V, recognized by its two core specializations, Shien and Djem So, represented the fifth style of lightsaber combat employed by members of the Jedi Order. The Djem So branch of Form V involved defending through firm blocks and deflections, immediately followed by aggressive counterattacks and ripostes. Despite being a style designed primarily for lightsaber duels, it maintained reasonable effectiveness in blaster bolt deflection. Anakin Skywalker famously utilized Djem So, both during his time as a Jedi and later after his turn to the Sith. The Shien branch of Form V incorporated the use of an unorthodox reverse grip, a technique notably favored and utilized by Ahsoka Tano during engagements.
Form V came about as a result of Form III users identifying a need for enhanced offensive capabilities. These Jedi appreciated the defensive qualities of Soresu, but desired a style that more effectively incorporated offensive actions. While Form IV opted for a completely opposite approach, focusing almost entirely on offense, Shien practitioners balanced Form III's strong defensive tactics with a greater focus on attack.
Some Jedi believed that Form III was inefficient, wasting energy by solely focusing on defense and passively awaiting an opportunity to strike. Form V retained many of Soresu's defensive techniques but proactively sought opportunities to attack. This was primarily achieved by turning opponents' attacks against them. This could involve literally reflecting a blaster shot back at the shooter or following a parry with a powerful counter-offensive.
The Shien variant of Form V was the first to emerge. Shien continued Soresu's pursuit of an effective combat style given the continued prevalence of blasters throughout the galaxy. Shien's main goal was to use a lightsaber to not only block blaster bolts, but to redirect them back at the enemies who fired them, effectively turning the enemy's blaster into a Jedi weapon. This tactic proved so successful and efficient that nearly all Jedi integrated it into their fighting styles, regardless of their preferred form.
The Djem So branch of Form V was developed some centuries later to address the form's shortcomings in close-quarters combat. Djem So prioritized defense against melee attacks, particularly from lightsaber-wielding opponents. However, the underlying principles and approach were largely the same as Shien, and the variations in maneuvers and techniques were not significant enough to distinguish Djem So as a separate form. Most Form V practitioners trained in both Shien and Djem So techniques to be prepared for any type of opponent, although they might have favored one over the other.
Form V was a dynamic style. Practitioners had to be constantly prepared to transition from a defensive stance to an offensive attack, and to revert to defense when their momentum waned. While Shii-Cho and Ataru dictated the situation, and Soresu patiently awaited an opening, Shien and Djem So aimed to control the flow of battle, skillfully leveraging any arising circumstances to their advantage.
Anakin Skywalker possessed great skill in Djem So, demonstrating his proficiency during the Clone Wars. His Padawan, Ahsoka Tano, also favored Form V. Form V was a physically demanding style, requiring the user to quickly shift from a dedicated defensive posture to an all-out offensive. The key to Shien's effectiveness was attacking unexpectedly, when the opponent was least prepared. Both strength and speed were essential to immediately follow a block or parry with a powerful series of attacks before the enemy could establish their own defense.
Form V included several maneuvers for closing the distance with a blaster-wielding opponent. However, it lacked Ataru's mobility. Once engaged in melee, a Djem So fighter moved minimally, only using the footwork necessary to maintain pressure on the opponent. Similarly, defending against blaster fire from multiple opponents significantly limited one's mobility. Shien practitioners, like Tano, sometimes used a distinctive reverse grip that was considered outdated by the time of the Clone Wars. Proponents of this technique believed it allowed for greater power leverage. Others contested its effectiveness for defensive maneuvers, making the approach a point of contention among Form V masters.