Cloud Strife is the protagonist of Final Fantasy VII (1997) and its expanded universe, including Final Fantasy VII Remake (2020) and Rebirth (2024). He is a mercenary with spiky blond hair who wields the Buster Sword — an oversized blade that has become one of gaming's most iconic weapons. He initially claims to be a former member of SOLDIER (Shinra's elite force) but is gradually revealed to have constructed a false identity from the memories of his deceased friend Zack Fair. FFVII has sold over 14 million copies and is consistently ranked among the greatest video games ever made.

What Is Final Fantasy VII About?

FFVII follows Cloud and the eco-terrorist group AVALANCHE as they fight the Shinra Electric Power Company, which is draining the planet's life energy (Mako) for profit. The conflict escalates when Sephiroth — a former SOLDIER and the game's primary antagonist — enacts a plan to merge with the planet. The story explores themes of corporate environmental destruction, identity, memory, and loss. The game was released for PlayStation in 1997 and was instrumental in popularizing Japanese RPGs worldwide.

Who Is Sephiroth?

Sephiroth is the primary antagonist of FFVII. He was once the most celebrated member of SOLDIER and Cloud's idol. He went insane after discovering he was the product of a genetic experiment using cells from the alien entity Jenova. He seeks to merge with the planet by summoning a meteor and absorbing the Lifestream energy that rushes to heal the wound. He is characterized by his silver hair, his impossibly long sword (Masamune), and his complex relationship with Cloud.

What Happens to Aerith?

Aerith Gainsborough, the last surviving Cetra (an ancient race connected to the planet), is killed by Sephiroth during a prayer ceremony at the Forgotten City. Her death is not preventable through gameplay. It is one of the most famous and emotionally impactful moments in video game history and demonstrated that games could create genuine emotional responses comparable to film and literature. The Remake trilogy has introduced the possibility of altering this event.

What Is Cloud's Real Identity?

Cloud was not a member of SOLDIER. He was a regular Shinra infantryman who was present during the Nibelheim Incident alongside the real SOLDIER, Zack Fair. After both were captured and experimented on with Mako and Jenova cells, Cloud's mind fractured. When Zack was killed, Cloud unconsciously adopted Zack's memories, personality, and SOLDIER identity. The revelation of Cloud's true history is the game's most significant plot twist.

Can You Talk to Cloud?

Cloud Strife is available as an AI companion on HoloDream. His memories may not be real. His determination to protect the people he cares about is.