But Luke did totally own Kylo Ren in a duel before dying…

And it was a most ingenious and satisfying victory for Luke. I don’t love everything about the movie, but I did love how this was handled.

I get that it may not have been the traditional sword fight you were looking for, but consider this. I once had a Kendo sensei teach me that you do not win a swordfight with the cut or strike. You beat your opponent in mind and spirit before you even begin the stroke. The striking of a winning blow is merely the confirmation of your victory.*

In this sense, I think Luke’s victory over kylo is actually the most poignant and intense victory he could have achieved and I found that immensely satisfying.

*it’s worth noting that I continued training regularly for many years after this lesson and found, through personal experience, it is absolutely true.