With the recent release of the Star Wars Episode VII: The Force Awakens teaser trailer, fans have been swarming over the graphics and ideas of the film. Disney, after buying the franchise from George Lucas, has huge shoes to fill as they continue to build on one of the most popular movie series ever created. From the trailer, one can obviously see that Disney will preserve the “Star Wars feel” with well-known figures such as white storm trooper.

The lightsaber, the famous weapon of a Jedi Knight or a Sith Lord, has remained practically unchanged and simple through the six movies. It consists merely of about a 12 in. handle with a 36 in. blade made purely of searing light. In the upcoming film, the lightsaber seems to have evolved from one smooth sword of light to a more rugged, fire looking blade with two extending daggers protruding from where the hilt meets the saber. Although the design appeals to viewers visually, concerns of the effectiveness of the weapon have risen.

Many fans are unhappy with the change of the lightsaber because they fear it could be potentially harmful to the wielder of the weapon in combat. Its short extensions could unintentionally cut hands and arms with one swift mistake. Fans also fear that it may be more susceptible to being cut at the shaft by another lightsaber. A rebound off one of the light daggers or a blade sliding down its main shaft could result in an easy removal of one of the extensions on the hilt. Some believe the extensions are practically pointless and can serve no benefit in combat with another saber.

Others however, gladly embrace the new look of the weapon. They believe a change to the image of the famous weapon is well overdue and welcome the creative opportunities that could arise with the lightsaber. The rugged-flame look to the new sword adds a harshness and fear to the once smooth and elegant saber. Fans argue that the extensions on the hilt could in fact aid in combat by expanding the range of protection from attacks. As far as susceptibility to being cut at the hilt, some believe that the extensions are one covered saber instead of two separated ones, denying it from damage and further protecting the user’s hands. With proper training and enough power, the weapon can be safely wielded and beneficial.

With Disney’s recent purchase of the Star Wars franchise and their immediate development of a movie, evolving the lightsaber into a more efficient weapon may not have been their primary motive. The release of a new lightsaber would naturally engage the production of new toys. The marketing of the new look has attracted attention that will inevitably boost box office and merchandise sales. Disney has always been the best at marketing techniques and the creation of a new lightsaber is most likely another clever method to earn more money.

Regardless of the motive, the evolved lightsaber will be a brilliant addition to the upcoming film, Star Wars Episode VII: The Force Awakens.