Through my recent watching of 3 out of the 4 big star based fan franchises
(Wars, Trek, Gate & Galactica) I have notice that each series has 1 primary
energy based weapon that gives its user an unbelievable advantage.

First off is Star Wars. And we all know about one of the coolest weapons
ever conceived. I give you, the Lightsaber:




Used most of the time for close combat.
Can injure enemies from a distance by deflecting blaster fire back at them.
Most torso (head & abdomen) hits are considered fatal.
Extremity hits are generally non-fatal but in the event of a severed limb
said limb cannot be reattached.
Aftermath leaves no blood since wound is caused by energy based weapon.

Next we have Star Trek. "Phasers on stun" is a famous line from Captain
Kirk. I give you, the Phasor:




Used most of the time for distant combat.
Generally pretty useless for close combat situations. Almost always leads to
hand to hand.
Does not matter where on the body it hits.
Has a convenient "Stun" and "Kill" setting that does exactly what it says.
Aftermath leaves no blood since wound is caused by energy based weapon.
(Unless you are a Klingon from Star Trek VI, then there will be blood
everywhere)

Finally we have Stargate. The longest running American made Sci-Fi series
produced to date. I give you, the Staff Weapon:




Used all of the time for distant combat.
Generally pretty useless for close combat situations. However the staff
itself can be used as a blunt (melee) weapon.
Torso hits are generally always lethal.
Extremity hits leave the victim with sever and painful 3rd degree burns.
Just like the previous two weapons it leaves no blood.

In conclusion: Sci-Fi fans apparently don't like blood. The only major
comparison is that every weapon mentioned does not spill a single drop.

(Note: I have yet to think of a Battlestar Galactica energy based weapon.
Any help is greatly appreciated)


From:
Bryon J. Hammer