Okay, so picture this: you’re flipping through an old gaming magazine, maybe it’s 1997 or somewhere around there. You’re reading about this game called Final Fantasy VII on the PlayStation, and this spiky-haired guy named Cloud Strife is front and center. Buster Sword, stoic face, a lot of brooding—he immediately feels like someone you’d wanna sit next to in a bar and ask, “Dude, what’s up with all the angst?”
Fast forward a few decades, and Cloud Strife isn’t just some pixelated figure from a bygone era. He’s the hero. The guy who transcended his digital form and became a symbol for gamers around the world. And I’m telling ya, when you peel back the layers of that Buster Sword and some serious backstory twists, you realize he’s a lot more than just a character. He’s basically the king of all RPG protagonists.
The Origins of Cloud Strife
Alright, let’s back it up. Cloud Strife didn’t just waltz into Final Fantasy VII as a ready-made hero. Nah, he’s got a pretty messy origin story, and it’s a doozy. Born from the minds of Tetsuya Nomura and Square Enix (the gods of RPGs), Cloud was designed to shake things up.
Character Design and Concept
- Spiky blond hair, kinda like a walking lightning bolt (but, like, cooler).
- Wields the Buster Sword—let’s be real, it’s iconic. You know it, I know it.
- At first, he’s cocky, sarcastic, and honestly a bit of a pain in the ass.
Cloud wasn’t supposed to be the typical hero—he was messy. Unclear. And that’s what made him so freakin’ relatable. It’s like that one friend who’s always kinda mysterious, but you’re secretly hoping they’ll open up about their tragic backstory.
A False Identity and A Hero’s Journey
And then—boom—the plot twist. Turns out, Cloud Strife doesn’t even remember his real past. Talk about an identity crisis.
Key Plot Revelations
- He wasn’t in SOLDIER. He thought he was, but… well, no.
- Most of what he thought was his life? Totally fabricated.
- But here’s the kicker—he assumes Zack Fair’s memories (poor guy).
Honestly, when I first played FFVII as a kid, I had to pause and reread the lines about Cloud’s past. And I’m like, “Wait, what?” It was a wild emotional rollercoaster. Cloud Strife isn’t just a hero who’s got it all together—he’s a guy who’s trying to figure out who the hell he actually is.
Personality Traits of Cloud Strife
Alright, real talk: Cloud’s personality isn’t your typical “let’s go save the world” kinda deal. He’s got layers—like an onion, but with more angst and less crying.
Notable Traits
- Aloof & sarcastic: Imagine that friend who makes cutting jokes but you know they’re secretly feeling a lot more than they let on.
- Guilt-ridden: I mean, who wouldn’t be with the kinda stuff Cloud’s gone through?
- Loyal: Despite all the confusion, he’s a solid guy. He’ll fight till the end.
When Cloud Strife isn’t busy saving the world, he’s out there trying to save himself. And who can’t relate to that?
Cloud Strife in Final Fantasy VII Remake
Then, in 2020, Final Fantasy VII Remake dropped. It’s like if they took the old game and pumped it full of adrenaline, caffeine, and all the love it deserved.
What’s New?
- They made him way more emotional. Honestly, I was getting teary-eyed over this dude by the end of the remake.
- Voice acting? Yes, please. Cody Christian nailed it, and I’m not even mad about it.
- You actually get to see Cloud grow emotionally, not just in terms of fighting.
The remake was a love letter to fans, and Cloud Strife is no longer just the ‘guy with a sword.’ He’s a dude who’s trying to figure it all out—just like the rest of us.
Relationships That Shape Cloud Strife
Now let’s talk about the people who helped make Cloud Strife who he is. He’s not a one-man army, y’all. He’s got friends—and enemies—that shape his story in ways you wouldn’t believe.
Tifa Lockhart
- Childhood friend (who’s not afraid to call him out on his BS).
- She’s his emotional anchor, and she knows his real story even before he does.
- Together, they help each other find their way.
Aerith Gainsborough
- The gentle, kind-hearted girl who steals Cloud’s heart (and ours too).
- Aerith and Cloud? Their relationship is more about unspoken connections. You feel it. Trust me.
- Her death? Yeah, I’m still not over it, thanks for asking.
Cloud Strife’s connections to these characters are the emotional core of FFVII. He’s surrounded by people who challenge him, comfort him, and even break his heart. And that’s where he finds his real strength.
The Iconic Buster Sword
Now, I know you’re probably itching to hear about the Buster Sword. And look, if you’ve played FFVII, you know this thing is a total game-changer.
Fun Facts About the Buster Sword
- It originally belonged to Zack Fair—who, by the way, is another emotional wreck of a character. Don’t even get me started on him.
- The sword isn’t just a weapon, it’s Cloud’s legacy. It’s his connection to the past and future.
- Want one? Well, good luck—there’s a reason why they’re like, five feet long and wicked heavy.
The Buster Sword isn’t just a sword. It’s the sword. It’s Cloud’s history, his future, and his painful memories all wrapped up in metal. Pretty deep for a weapon, right?
Appearances Beyond Final Fantasy VII
You didn’t think Cloud Strife was going to stop at FFVII, right? Nah, this dude has been everywhere.
Spin-Offs and Cameos
- Advent Children (movie sequel)—because Cloud wasn’t done yet.
- Kingdom Hearts—oh yeah, he made an appearance there too.
- Dissidia Final Fantasy—cloud has a whole series where he fights other FF characters. Sounds like a good time.
Every time Cloud Strife pops up in another game, it’s like meeting an old friend. You know exactly what to expect… and also not expect.
Cloud Strife in Popular Culture
Let’s be honest—Cloud Strife isn’t just a game character. He’s practically a meme at this point. He’s the guy you see in cosplay at conventions, the one that makes every gamer geek out.
Examples of His Influence
- The cosplay game? Through the roof. (And don’t lie, we’ve all thought about getting a Buster Sword replica.)
- Reference material? You bet—Cloud’s been in everything from internet memes to song lyrics.
- He’s a permanent fixture in “Best Video Game Characters of All Time” lists.
Cloud Strife has grown far beyond the screen. He’s a cultural touchstone for anyone who’s ever picked up a game controller.
Final Thoughts: Why Cloud Strife is Forever
Let’s wrap this up. Cloud Strife is more than just the guy who saves the planet. He’s a flawed hero, an icon, and someone we all secretly wish we could be—or at least have a conversation with. His journey from confusion to clarity mirrors all of our own struggles.
