Series & First Appearance
Cloud Strife is the main protagonist of Final Fantasy VII, which debuted on PlayStation in 1997. The game was developed by Square (now Square Enix), with character designs created by Tetsuya Nomura. Cloud also appears in several sequels and spin-offs, including Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children and Final Fantasy VII Remake.
Profile at a Glance
Cloud is a 21-year-old mercenary and former member of SOLDIER, the elite forces of Shinra. He stands at 5′ 7" (173 cm) tall and has distinctive blonde hair and striking blue eyes, a consequence of exposure to mako energy. As a member of the eco-terrorist group AVALANCHE, Cloud initially embodies a cold demeanor but ultimately evolves into a strong leader with deep emotional ties to his companions, particularly Aerith Gainsborough and Tifa Lockhart.
Personality & Motivations
Cloud exhibits a complex personality characterized by aloofness and bravado, masking his insecurities. Initially, he seems emotionally detached and focused on his mercenary work, but as the story unfolds, layers of his character reveal a more introspective and conflicted individual. His driving goal is to stop Sephiroth, the game’s primary antagonist, while grappling with personal guilt over past failures, particularly concerning Aerith’s death. This struggle adds depth to his character, making him relatable to fans.
Abilities / Powers
Cloud is proficient with his signature weapon, the Buster Sword, which he wields using advanced swordsmanship techniques. He possesses superhuman agility and strength, enhanced by his SOLDIER training and exposure to mako energy. Additionally, Cloud has access to Materia—magical orbs that grant powerful spells and abilities, including healing and summoning. Over time, he also confronts the psychological effects of being a "Sephiroth Clone," which complicates his mental state and ability to trust his own memories. His powers evolve throughout the series, especially in Advent Children, where he showcases advanced combat skills and the ability to overcome Geostigma, a debilitating condition that manifests physically and mentally.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Cloud’s journey begins in Final Fantasy VII, where he is hired by AVALANCHE to combat Shinra’s exploitation of the planet. Key story arcs include his struggle to uncover the truth of his past, particularly the traumatic Nibelheim Incident and his connection to Sephiroth. His character evolves significantly as he confronts his memories and relationships, especially those with Tifa and Aerith. In Advent Children, he faces the aftermath of Aerith’s death and battles the remnants of Sephiroth while coming to terms with his past and accepting his role as a protector of his friends and the planet. The Final Fantasy VII Remake further expands on these themes, offering new insights into Cloud’s psyche.
Notable Relationships
Cloud’s relationships are pivotal to his character development. His deep bond with Tifa Lockhart serves as both a romantic tension and a grounding force, while his complex feelings for Aerith Gainsborough highlight his vulnerability and the weight of his choices. He also interacts with key figures such as Sephiroth, his greatest rival; Barret Wallace, the leader of AVALANCHE and a mentor figure; and Zack Fair, his friend from SOLDIER whose legacy influences Cloud’s identity.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One of Cloud’s iconic moments occurs during the confrontation with Sephiroth in the Final Fantasy VII climactic scene, where he states, "I will not be brought down by you!" This line encapsulates his growth from a confused mercenary to a determined hero. In Advent Children, his introspective moments as he grapples with loss and his past, particularly when he acknowledges, "I’m not here to talk about my past," resonate deeply with fans and highlight the emotional depth of his character.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Cloud Strife has been a central figure in the Final Fantasy franchise, consistently ranking high in popularity polls. His design, featuring the iconic Buster Sword and spiky hair, has become synonymous with the series and the RPG genre as a whole. In Japan, he is voiced by Takahiro Sakurai, while in English, he is portrayed by Steve Burton in the original Final Fantasy VII and by Cody Christian in the Final Fantasy VII Remake. Cloud’s character has transcended gaming to become a cultural icon, appearing in numerous spin-offs, comic adaptations, and merchandise, further solidifying his lasting impact on anime and gaming fans alike.
