This thing about being locked into melee has previously only mostly been seen in The Matrix, but it actually works well in Star Wars too, especially since ROTS had a bit more emphasis on melee combat.
It does mean you have to think carefully with melee enemies around. This is of particular note to the Dark Siders for when they meet the Osokans again! Under this system, individual Osokans will be less dangerous, but running away from them once they've locked you in will be extremely hazardous.