Cloud Strife: The Legendary Hero of Final Fantasy VII

Hero Profile:

• Full Name: Cloud Strife
• Alias/Nickname: Ex-SOLDIER, Mercenary, The Chosen Exile
• Game/Franchise: Final Fantasy VII and its spin-offs (Advent Children, Crisis Core, Remake)
• Developer/Publisher: Square Enix

Overview

Cloud Strife is the Final Fantasy VII legend, characterised by spiky blond hair, his huge Buster Sword, and the multiple layers in his personality. Starting as an apparent self-confident ex-SOLDIER, a character's adventure peels back a fractured psyche and a heartbreak of loss.

Background and Mythology

Cloud is a native of the small town of Nibelheim, who wants to become part of the elite forces of SOLDIER, an organisation of the Shinra Corporation. However, he never managed to get beyond the rank of infantry. Experiments using Jenova cells resulted in the mingling of Cloud's memories with those of Zack Fair, causing him identity problems. Cloud emerges as an unwilling hero to save the world from Sephiroth's attempt to destroy it.

Role and Abilities

• Primary Role in the Game: Protagonist, Leader, Warrior
• Special Abilities/Skills: Braver, Omnislash, Stronger muscles, Materia.
• Weapons/Equipment: Buster Sword, Materia (Magic System)

Key Appearances

• Final Fantasy VII (1997)
• Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children (2005)
• Final Fantasy VII Remake (2020)

Impact on the Game Universe

Cloud is one of the most recognizable characters in gaming history. His story of self-discovery, resilience, and redemption resonates with players worldwide. He became the face of Final Fantasy for decades, influencing many RPG protagonists.

Memorable Quotes

“I’m not a hero. I’m just a guy who’s trying to save the planet.”

“Let’s mosey.”

"No one lives in the slums because they want to. It's like this train. It can't run anywhere except where its rails take it."

Interesting Facts

Cloud's Buster Sword is one of the most iconic weapons in gaming.
He was designed by Tetsuya Nomura, who gave him his signature spiky hairstyle to stand out in pixelated graphics.
Cloud's character has inspired numerous crossovers, including appearances in Super Smash Bros.

Related Characters

Sephiroth: Primary antagonist and rival of Cloud.
Tifa Lockhart: Child friend and emotional lifeline.
Aerith Gainsborough: romantic interest and tragic figure in the storyline of Cloud.