In the expansive Star Wars universe, scenes of Yoda wielding his renowned lightsaber are indeed rare, yet they never fail to captivate. Whether it’s during the High Republic Era or in self-imposed exile on Dagobah, the Jedi Grandmaster proves time and again that he is a formidable swordsman, defying expectations with his small stature. However, Yoda’s influence stems more from his wisdom and teachings than from his green-bladed weapon.
As a senior member of the Jedi Council, Yoda has embarked on numerous adventures throughout the galaxy, rarely lingering within the confines of Coruscant’s Jedi Temple. His journeys have led to thrilling confrontations, both in canon and Legends, where he has been compelled to draw his lightsaber. Notably, Grogu was set to inherit this legacy during the New Republic Era. Here is a ranking of Yoda’s eight most thrilling lightsaber battles from across Star Wars history, featured in both on-screen adaptations and comic series.
8 Yoda Duels Luke Skywalker… With A Stick
(Star Wars Adventures: Luke Skywalker and the Treasure of the Dragonsnakes)
Even though it falls under the non-canon Legends narrative, Dark Horse’s Luke Skywalker and the Treasure of the Dragonsnakes by Tom Taylor and Daxiong showcases a unique aspect of Luke’s Jedi training on Dagobah. The narrative highlights Yoda guiding Luke to refine his lightsaber skills through sparring, utilizing his walking stick instead of his iconic weapon — a decision made after Yoda vowed never to wield a lightsaber again following Revenge of the Sith. This training session serves as an entertaining glimpse into Yoda’s role as a mentor.
7 Yoda Leading A High Republic Assault
(Star Wars: The High Republic Adventures #2)
During the High Republic era, Yoda remained committed to educating the younger generation of Jedi, reminiscent of his approach in the prequel trilogy. At a time when the Nihil posed a significant galactic threat, Yoda led a group of younglings against marauders exploiting the chaos in the Trymant system. Accompanied by Master Torban Buck and his cadre of students aboard an academic cruiser, this episode marked an exhilarating start to a new chapter in the Star Wars saga.
6 Yoda Defends A Remote Village
(Star Wars: Yoda #1)
Yoda often took sabbaticals during the High Republic, exploring distant regions of the galaxy to absorb new cultural experiences and assist those in distress. In Yoda #1, he encounters villagers embroiled in a prolonged civil conflict, demonstrating his heroism as he intervenes to protect them. The saga continues with Yoda returning years later to mediate between the feuding tribes, showcasing the profound impact of his wisdom borne from his extensive lifespan.
5 Yoda and Anakin Skywalker vs The Megadroid
(Star Wars: Yoda #7-9)
In the midst of the Clone Wars, Yoda joins forces with Anakin Skywalker in Yoda #7-9. This collaboration is unique, as it marks one of their fervent battles as they unite against a Separatist factory producing dangerous “megadroids.”The sight of Yoda leveraging his agility to dismantle one of these menacing machines from within is a notable highlight of their alliance.
4 Yoda vs The Dead & Multiple Sith Lords (Vision)
(Star Wars: Yoda #10)
3 Yoda vs Count Dooku
(Attack of The Clones)
The attack on Count Dooku in Attack of the Clones marked Yoda’s on-screen debut with his lightsaber, showcasing his incredible agility and combat skills. Encountering Dooku, his former apprentice, Yoda adeptly utilizes the Force and acrobatic maneuvers to counter Dooku’s attacks. Although Dooku manages to escape, Yoda’s performance remains one of the defining lightsaber duels in Star Wars history.
2 Yoda vs. General Grievous
(Star Wars: Yoda #7)
1 Yoda vs Emperor Palpatine
(Revenge of the Sith)
The pinnacle of Yoda’s dueling prowess is exemplified in his climactic battle against Emperor Palpatine within the Senate chambers during Revenge of the Sith. Aiming to eradicate the Sith and seek vengeance for the fallen Jedi, Yoda faces formidable challenge in Palpatine. Despite his best efforts and nearly overcoming the dark side’s power, Yoda ultimately retreats into exile, highlighting the stakes and drama of this encounter.
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Upcoming Star Wars Movies |
Release Date |
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The Mandalorian & Grogu |
May 22, 2026 |