10 Most Powerful Force Users In Star Wars, Ranked

1977 saw George Lucas debut the “Star Wars” universe onto global screens with the iconic movie “A New Hope,” forever altering popular culture. This expansive franchise encompasses films, TV series, video games, merchandise, and numerous other ventures. For decades, a multitude of artists and writers have collaborated to establish an intricate tapestry of planets, societies, characters, and what makes “Star Wars” so enduringly popular. However, when Lucas sold “Star Wars” to Disney, the landscape shifted dramatically.

In a significant shift, Disney chose to discard a large portion of the Extended Universe to establish a more streamlined storyline, eliminating many potent Force-wielding characters from the “Star Wars” universe. This change means that certain highly powerful beings no longer fall under the official canon. While this might disappoint longtime fans who have been engrossed in the books, comics, and games for years, it simplifies the task of determining which Force users are most potent, as only Disney’s approved content is considered now. Among these streamlined stories, there are some truly remarkable characters with extraordinary abilities.

Deciding which character from “Star Wars” wields the greatest power through the Force can be somewhat open to interpretation. What one person might consider the strongest, another may not feel the same way about. However, it’s indisputable that the ten Force users featured here possess immense power. Their abilities, achievements, and feats throughout the “Star Wars” canon have been taken into account when creating this ranking. So, let’s dive right in and explore the top 10 most powerful Force users in “Star Wars,” ranked according to their prowess.

10. Ahsoka Tano

Initially introduced in “Star Wars: The Clone Wars,” Ahsoka Tano was initially met with some skepticism by the fanbase, but over time they came to appreciate her full potential. Trained as the sole Padawan of Jedi Knight Anakin Skywalker, she initially faced resistance from him who wasn’t keen on teaching a young apprentice. However, as he imparted his wisdom and skills to Ahsoka, he recognized her power and eventually grew fond of his pupil. It took time, but Ahsoka developed into an exceptionally skilled Jedi with an impressive list of achievements.

Ultimately, Ahsoka Tano parted ways with the Jedi Order because they deserted her during false accusations of a bombing plot. Regrettably, she missed the chance to rejoin when the Order collapsed following Order 66 and the Great Jedi Purge. Tragically, it was her previous master who initiated much of the death toll under the instructions of his master, Darth Sidious (Emperor Palpatine). However, Ahsoka managed to survive the Purge and emerged as a significant figure in establishing the Rebel Alliance.

Regarding combat prowess, Ahsoka is exceptionally proficient in Form V: Shien/Djem, often using a reverse grip which has allowed her to eliminate countless Death Watch members. She is known for wielding two lightsabers and remarkably defeated a reborn Darth Maul. Ahsoka’s Force abilities are impressive, as she can disable opponents’ lightsabers to disarm them, an uncommon skill that she employed frequently during the Clone Wars. In a flash, she managed to slay an Inquisitor without a weapon of her own.

Ahsoka excels in Form V: Shien/Djem, using a reverse grip to take out many Death Watch members. She’s usually seen with two lightsabers and even bested a reborn Darth Maul. Ahsoka’s Force power is considerable, as she can temporarily deactivate opponents’ lightsabers to disarm them – a rare ability she used often during the Clone Wars, and swiftly eliminated an Inquisitor without her own weapon.

9. Jedi Master Qui-Gon Jinn

As a dedicated gamer immersed in the Star Wars universe, I gotta say, Qui-Gon Jinn was one of the most intriguing Jedi out there. He had this unique approach to the Force, focusing on its living essence, which frequently put him at odds with the Jedi Council elders. His apprentice, Obi-Wan Kenobi, felt that Qui-Gon’s rebellious spirit kept him from sitting on the Council. But let’s not forget, this maverick Jedi was instrumental in molding one of the greatest Jedi ever – Obi-Wan himself! Beyond raising a legend, Qui-Gon’s groundbreaking perspective on the Force unveiled a power so profound, it left an indelible mark on the entire Star Wars saga.

Despite George Lucas choosing to have Qui-Gon die in “The Phantom Menace”, his influence continues to resonate significantly beyond that point. It was Qui-Gon who delved into the mysteries of the Force and uncovered the methods for transforming into a Force Spirit. At first, he was only partially able to materialize, but he helped Jedi Grand Master Yoda in discovering this skill. Yoda then passed this knowledge onto Obi-Wan, who in turn shared it with others, thus making Qui-Gon’s skills in the Force crucial to the saga as a whole. However, it was also Qui-Gon’s unwavering faith in prophecy that ultimately led to the downfall of the Jedi Order.

The conviction that Anakin Skywalker was the Chosen One ultimately led to the Order’s demise, but a balance was achieved through his actions. Before his death in combat with Darth Maul, Qui-Gon Jinn implored Obi-Wan Kenobi to teach Anakin in the art of the Force, which he did, thus initiating the sequence of events that unfold throughout the Skywalker Saga. Nevertheless, Qui-Gon’s mastery of the Force places him among the most formidable Jedi Masters of his time.

Believing Anakin Skywalker was the Chosen One caused the downfall of the Order, but balance was restored by his actions. Qui-Gon asked Obi-Wan to train Anakin in the Force before he died fighting Darth Maul, and this set off a chain of events throughout the entire Star Wars saga. Despite this, Qui-Gon was one of the most powerful Jedi Masters because of his understanding of the Force during his time.

8. Darth Plagueis

In official Star Wars lore, not much is revealed about Darth Plagueis due to Disney categorizing James Luceno’s book, “Star Wars: Darth Plagueis,” as Legends. However, there are insights that can be gained from “Revenge of the Sith” and other sources, including a silent appearance at the end of “Star Wars: Acolyte.” This brief cameo, although using CGI, introduced him to live-action storytelling. It’s been established that Darth Plagueis was the Sith Master of Emperor Palpatine, passing on all his knowledge to him.

In line with Sith custom, it was typically the apprentice who took the life of their master, a practice that Darth Sidious adhered to by murdering his master, Plagueis, while he slept. Before meeting his end, Plagueis yearned fervently for immortality, convinced that it could be attained through the study of dark sciences. He delved into genetic engineering and the role of midi-chlorians, seeking to manufacture life itself. This expertise was then inherited by Plagueis’ protégé, who later played a crucial role in orchestrating Anakin Skywalker’s miraculous conception.

In the Star Wars universe, it’s acknowledged that Darth Plagueis mentored the most cunning character, whose actions, in turn, led to the demise of the Jedi Order and the rise of the Galactic Empire. This master was exceptionally versed in the Force, with a deep understanding of its darker aspects. His story, “The Tragedy of Darth Plagueis the Wise,” is told by one who learned under him. Though his lightsaber skills remain unclear, the fact that he imparted his wisdom to his student implies his mastery over the Force was vast.

7. Jedi Master Mace Windu

Mace Windu, a seasoned Jedi Master, stood out among his peers in the Jedi High Council with an exceptional mastery of his craft. He developed his signature lightsaber technique, Vapaad, tailored to his distinct skills and talents. Furthermore, Mace Windu is the solitary Jedi known for wielding a purple-bladed lightsaber within the Star Wars universe, adding an element of uniqueness to his character. His prowess was evident during the First Battle of Geonosis where he effortlessly defeated Jango Fett. Throughout the Clone Wars, Mace Windu proved himself to be a powerful force within the Republic Military. In his confrontation with Mother Talzin on Zardossa Stix, an adversary known for her great power and recognized by Darth Sidious as a formidable foe, Mace Windu displayed his unwavering courage and skill.

At the climax of the Galactic Republic, Mace’s Jedi prowess shines as he and other Jedi Masters storm the Chancellor’s office with the intention of arresting him. However, the Chancellor, unmasked as the Dark Lord of the Sith, Darth Sidious, attacks them without mercy, killing three in a swift instant. Mace is the sole survivor among the Jedi, managing to hold his ground against the menace for a while. Eventually, he manages to overpower Darth Sidious, pinning him down and pointing his lightsaber at his throat.

In this scenario, Anakin Skywalker steps in, urging Sidious to face a trial instead of letting him go. However, after some persuasion, Anakin switches allegiance, choosing the dark side of the Force. In this moment of betrayal, he severs Mace Windu’s right arm. Then, Sidious retaliates with Force Lightning, killing Jedi Master Mace Windu while shouting, “Unlimited power!” If Anakin hadn’t acted as he did and joined the dark side, it’s almost certain that Mace could have defeated the Sith at that very moment.

6. The Mortis Gods

In “The Clone Wars,” as well as in “Star Wars: Rebels” and “Ahsoka,” a group called The Mortis Gods, also referred to as The Ones, made their appearance. Unlike other Force users in the Star Wars universe, they are incredibly powerful entities. Despite not being typical Force users, they hold significant power within the franchise. There were three of them: The Daughter, who is associated with the light side of the Force; The Son, who is tied to the dark side; and The Father, who embodies the equilibrium between the two forces.

On Mortis, a planet where the trinity of gods known as the Father, Son, and Daughter resided, Anakin Skywalker, Obi-Wan Kenobi, and Ahsoka Tano made a visit. While they were there, the Father attempted to persuade Anakin to assume his role in maintaining the balance of the Force. However, the Son thwarted this plan by killing Ahsoka. Yet, the Daughter was able to revive her via her life energy. This left the Father with no choice but to sacrifice himself, allowing Anakin to finally defeat the Son.

These entities embodied the Force itself, making them incredibly potent. Without Anakin’s intervention, they would have held the highest rank among Force users within the franchise. However, their destiny was changed when the Jedi arrived at Mortis. Their influence stretched far and wide, serving as the gateway to the World Between Worlds. In “Ahsoka,” there is a massive stone sculpture of the Father that can be seen on Peridea’s surface.

5. Jedi Master Luke Skywalker

Throughout most of its timeline, Luke Skywalker stood as the strongest wielder of the Force in the “Star Wars” universe. Originating from humble beginnings, he ascended to greatness and power, embodying the Jedi Order. In the film “Return of the Jedi,” Luke boldly confronts the Emperor within his throne room. By the end, the Emperor is slain, and Luke carries Darth Vader’s fading life force to a waiting vessel. Notably, Luke’s training was largely self-taught, having received minimal guidance from Obi-Wan Kenobi before successfully destroying the Death Star.

It’s true that Luke received assistance throughout his journey – learning from Yoda on Dagobah being one example – but his immense power made him a formidable figure in the galaxy. It seems plausible that Darth Sidious waited until Luke had passed before returning, as even their most bitter adversary respected him long after their encounter. Following his departure from the Force, Luke employed the knowledge he gained from the Holy Jedi Texts to create a Similfuturus (Force Projection), which allowed him to project himself across the galaxy and buy the Resistance valuable time to flee from the First Order.

Luke perished in this act, as the burden was beyond what his body could endure. Remarkably, he managed to accomplish it, a feat that few Jedi, and especially one nurtured and tutored by the Jedi Order during the Galactic Republic era, could achieve. The numerous feats attributed to Luke underscore his immense strength. Some even contend that he might be the Chosen One instead of his father, although the official accounts suggest otherwise.

4. Jedi Knight Anakin Skywalker

It’s commonly believed that Anakin Skywalker, being the Chosen One, was the most powerful Force user in the Star Wars series. However, his tragic fall from grace weakened his abilities. Although he was naturally gifted by the Force, born through Darth Sidious’ manipulations and having an exceptionally high midi-chlorian count, he also demonstrated remarkable speed in learning new Force skills and was one of the finest lightsaber fighters in Star Wars history.

In essence, Anakin was tricked into embracing the evil side of the Force, adopting the title Darth Vader under his new mentor. This transformation led him on a lethal crusade. His motivation for this change was to protect Padmé, but tragically, it was his actions that ultimately led to her downfall. In his battle with Obi-Wan Kenobi, he lost all his limbs and was severely burned near a molten river on Mustafar. Despite these devastating injuries, his rage sustained him. Later, Darth Sidious employed advanced technology to restore Vader to combat readiness.

If the battle had turned out differently and Vader had survived unscathed, he might have evolved into the most potent Force-wielder ever. Sadly for him, he endured persistent agony and needed machinery to stay alive, which severely curtailed his abilities. He was unable to summon Force Lightning due to this, although he remained extraordinarily powerful with a mastery of lightsaber techniques, he never fully realized his potential that had been lost when he succumbed to the dark side.

3. Jedi Master Obi-Wan Kenobi

Obi-Wan Kenobi learned from Qui-Gon Jinn, then taught Anakin Skywalker. After seeing his mentor fatally wounded by Darth Maul, he split him in two and eventually took his life years later. Using his wisdom, he instructed his apprentice in the secrets of the Force and lightsaber fighting. Throughout the Clone Wars, Obi-Wan frequently escaped from dire predicaments, and faced off against many Sith warriors during this period.

Initially, when we encounter him in the series, he’s elderly and sluggish, meeting a swift end during his duel with Darth Vader. However, this was all part of his scheme, as he confides to his former apprentice: “Should you destroy me, the Force will grant me greater strength than you could ever fathom.” After his death, Obi-Wan still educates Luke and offers him guidance on the road to success. Eons ago, he had a fierce lightsaber duel with Darth Vader, who was then known as Anakin Skywalker, on Mustafar, eventually emerging victorious after a prolonged battle.

Years down the line, they cross paths once more, and upon regaining his vigor, Obi-Wan effortlessly overpowers Vader again. He unleashes a barrage of massive rocks against him, culminating in a swift slice that exposes Vader’s face beneath the mask. His numerous feats as a Jedi Master solidify his status as one of the most potent Force wielders ever, and his influence (as evidenced by Luke and many others) is indisputable. He may not receive the recognition he deserves, but there are scarcely any Jedi or Sith who could rival Obi-Wan in power.

2. Darth Sidious

Without a vast amount of power under one’s control, it would be impossible to ascend from being a Senator of Naboo to becoming the Emperor of the galaxy. And that’s exactly what Darth Sidious had – an abundance of power. He gained this power through his mastery, Darth Plagueis, and he used this knowledge to manipulate the Force itself to birth his future apprentice, Darth Vader. Throughout his time within the Galactic Republic, Sidious skillfully hid his true identity from the entire Jedi Order, working side by side with its most brilliant minds without ever revealing himself.

Darth Sidious skillfully orchestrated events over a long period, manipulating both sides during the Clone Wars to amass a powerful military force. This force was later used to eliminate the Jedi Order, not just from the outside, but also by converting one of its most prominent young members into his apprentice. In doing so, he brought about the downfall of the Jedi Order from within. He was an exceptional lightsaber combatant, proficient in Form VII, and possessed the capability to unleash lethal Force Lightning with an apparently endless energy supply. This power allowed him to obliterate ships orbiting planets with his prodigious skills.

Darth Sidius managed to live on after his own demise, maintaining his malevolent essence to later occupy a clone’s body until a more lasting solution came along. Such feats in the “Star Wars” universe are scarcely found, underscoring that Darth Sidius is arguably the most potent Sith ever born. These actions offer just a glimpse of his capabilities, yet even with such immense power, he knew when to hold back and engage in battle only when it was essential.

1. Jedi Grand Master Yoda

In the course of Star Wars history, there have been just four Jedi Grand Masters, with Yoda being the most recent. During his conversation with Luke Skywalker in “The Empire Strikes Back,” Yoda humbly shared his impressive training span of 800 years as a Jedi. This remarkable lifespan allowed him to attain an unprecedented mastery over the Force, a feat few could aspire to. Furthermore, despite his small stature and reliance on a cane, Yoda proved himself to be one of the most formidable lightsaber fighters within the Star Wars saga.

When confronted by Darth Tyranus, he casually elevates his hand, skillfully deflecting and taking in his Force Bolts. Without uttering a word, he calmly states, “There is much more you have yet to learn.” Given that he was once Yoda’s apprentice, it was unwise to challenge one’s former mentor head-on. In fact, even Darth Sidious felt intimidated by him and opted to retreat rather than engage. Although Sidious emerged victorious in their encounter, if they had fought again, Yoda most likely would have triumphed. Eventually, Yoda’s final apprentice, Luke, managed to vanquish the Sith, albeit temporarily.

Following his passing, I’ve found that Yoda transcended physical existence, transforming into a Spirit of the Force and continued to guide those on the righteous path across the galaxy. His final act as a spiritual entity was a testament to his might, summoning a bolt of lightning to obliterate the Jedi Tree – a lesson for his former apprentice that no other Force Spirit has been able to emulate. Yoda’s power and skill stem from an unwavering will and devotion to the light side of the Force. Throughout his life, he mentored countless Jedi, none of whom even came close to matching his mastery.

2025-01-21 20:31