The Love Triangle of FFVII – An Analysis by Squall_of_SeeD
by Makoeyes987 September 25, 2009 0 comments
Ahh, the Love Triangle of Final Fantasy VII. It is arguably, the most passionately discussed topic of all of FFVII fandom. Going by the comments on this site, at least.
Today, we post the next article from his FAQ, written by Squall_of_SeeD. In this one, he’ll analyze the hot button topic of Cloud’s feelings and affections for the two heroines of FFVII: Aerith and Tifa. What do the creators and story have to say regarding Cloud’s feelings for the two? Anything? Squall_of_SeeD gives us the answer.
With great pleasure, we host this controversial, yet well written and insightful analysis. Enjoy!
EDIT: As expected, Squall_of_SeeD and I have received lot’s of feedback, both positive and negative, regarding this article. Squall_of_SeeD decided that it was necessary to address several of the additional points and critiques of his analysis that were mentioned, and with that, he has amended several portions of his FAQ regarding his analysis. You can read the newly edited article below.
EDIT2: Squall_of_SeeD is such a slave driver making me update this FAQ again, today, the eve of Halloween. But he’s just a stickler for completion. So again. Take a look at what else has been added XD
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Initially, I’d intended for this FAQ to ignore the Love Triangle
Debate like a plague. It succeeded in that for a good number of years, but updating it after an absence of more than three years from this fandom, I feel a need to address this topic.
Why? You know, I’m really not sure. Probably because it’s hard to call the FAQ’s analysis complete when I don’t even talk about what remains the most passionately and frequently debated aspect of the game more than 12 years after its release.
The Love Triangle Debate, of course, centers around whether Cloud had more romantic feelings toward Aerith or Tifa. Basically, who did he want to be with?
Twelve years after the release of Final Fantasy VII, the most passionately and frequently debated aspect of the game remains the Love Triangle Debate.
For those nine of you who don’t know, the Love Triangle Debate centers around whether Cloud had more romantic feelings toward Aerith or Tifa. Basically, who did he want to be with?
Those fans who prefer — or “‘ship”, as the verb goes — CloudxAerith are known in the fandom as Cleriths, while those who ‘ship’ CloudxTifa are called Clotis. That being said, obviously a Clerith may still argue that Cloti is canon, and a Cloti might argue the opposite if it’s what they believe.
Generally speaking though, those in both camps argue in favor of their preferred relationship as canon.
While I’ve had my preference since the beginning, it was initially based on my own preferences in women. More to the point, I couldn’t stand Aerith and adored Tifa. That’s still the case 12 years later, though it obviously doesn’t have to be the same for Cloud.
None of that is to say that I don’t like Aerith; just not in “that way,” if you get me. I simply prefer more somber and restrained females. Still, if you fear my declared preference for Tifa may bias my views in this analysis, that’s not an unreasonable concern.
However, in any public address, it’s necessary to state one’s personal views upfront. Otherwise, it becomes a question of honesty.
Whether I am credible I leave to each of you to decide.
I do believe this, though: You won’t find someone with no opinion on the LTD actually discussing the matter at length. Not only because it takes a vested interest in the first place, but because it’s impossible.
Anyone analyzing data and drawing conclusions from it, even if they began as neutral, no longer is by the end of the process. This is as true of researchers making employ of the scientific method as it is of scholars conducting media analysis.
They must, of course, attempt to distance themselves as much as possible while drawing their conclusions, though. You are free to determine otherwise if not convinced, but I believe my three-and-a-half-year absence from this fandom has given me a degree of distance. I will tell you outright that I could not have objectively discussed this matter in 2005.
I believe I can do so now.
In any case, as said, I am a Cloti. Accommodating me and so many others, the original game’s developers designed it such that the player’s own choices influence who Cloud’s affection is greatest for in the original game.
The way several scenes play out are influenced by this, and, consequently, it left Cloud’s feelings ambiguous at the end of the game. As an additional consequence, it meant players would debate, disagree with and flame one another for more than the next decade since there was no definitive answer.
There were no official declarations in interviews, no scenes in the newer FFVII titles featuring Cloud and one of the ladies in an overtly romantic context, and no apparent end in sight to the blood feud that lay between fans of the two pairings.
The only statement about Cloud’s feelings that could be given with complete confidence is that he cared about both women very much. Now, however, I believe more than that can be done.
I believe there’s now a definitive answer.
The only statement about Cloud’s feelings that could be given with complete confidence is that he cared about both women very much. Now, however, more than that can be done.
There’s now a definitive answer.
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I get really sick of some people claiming that Cloti has already been accepted as canon by the majority of the Final Fantasy VII fandom. That is completely and utterly FALSE.
Yes…there is evidence that may support Cloti. But there is ALSO evidence that supports Clerith. Newly acquired Cloti evidence does not counteract already existing Clerith evidence. And there is no way to determine which side has ‘better’ or more ‘valid’ pieces of evidence. If anything, I’d say Clerith has more examples of evidence.
The bottom line is: both sides have evidence. SE has NEVER said which pairing is canon. To make the insulting claim that Cloti has basically already been accepted as canon, and to insinuate that anyone who doesn’t agree with this myth is in denial or is among a small group of delusional people is utterly ridiculous.
They say when you repeat something over and over again you start to believe it as fact. Maybe some people have convinced themselves in their own heads that Cloti is canon because they’ve said it so many times, but just because you say it to be true does not mean SE agrees with you. And I can assure you, the majority of those in the Final Fantasy VII fandom do not believe that Cloti is canon. I’d say the majority of the people in the fandom believe that who Cloud loves is up to interpretation, and that there is sufficent evidence on BOTH sides.
There is no way to deny or get rid of the official evidence that supports Clerith. You may think the Cloti evidence is stronger, but that does not counteract or negate the Clerith evidence. Therefore, since there is evidence on both sides, and which evidence is stronger is purely a matter of opinion and is subjective, why do people have to go around claiming that one side is ‘so clearly canon,’ and that pretty much everyone supposedly already knows it?
That’s a misinformation campaign if I ever saw one.
Here is evidence that I believe supports Cloud x Aerith:
1. The Cloud x Aerith Golden Saucer date is confirmed as canon within the compilation:
A: “In Aerith’s case, if you play the game normally,the partner that generally comes will be Aerith.”~Final Fantasy VII Dismantled
B. “#111: The Planet’s largest amusement park is run by Dio. Cloud and company visit this place many times in their battle. They meet Cait Sith here. A promised date that ends in a magical night. In the city of desire that floats above the sands, the light memory of the two people is asleep even now…Aerith: “I think I must have seen him again, in you… But you’re different. Things are different… No, Cloud… I’m searching for you…” ~Final Fantasy Art Collection
C: “Oh, Cloud…I enjoyed our date at the Gold Saucer. The view from the gondola that night was really beautiful. I’ll never forget it. I’ll never forget you, Cloud…” ~Aerith, Final Fantasy VII Dismantled, Square Enix
2. Aerith Gainsborough: “A girl with the blood of the Ancients flowing through her veins who is engraved in Cloud’s heart for the rest of his life” ~DoC game manual, Square Enix
3. “Cloud was her friend, her koibito (lover in Japanese) – a symbol of what was important to her, and someone to be protected.” ~Case of Lifestream: White, Square Enix
4. “The place where he awakens. That is Cloud’s Promised Land……When he awakes, there was his friends. There were the children, freed from their fatal illness. Tifa and Marlene, and Denzel asking for Cloud to heal his Geostigma— his family were waiting. Engulfed in celebration, he realises where he is meant to live. He realises that he was able to forgive himself. And when he turns around—- “she” is starting to leave. Together with the friend who had given Cloud his life. Cloud no longer has to suffer in loneliness… And so they too go back to where they belong. Back to the current of life flowing around the planet” ~Final Fantasy VII 10th Anniversary Ultimania, Square Enix
–Cloud awakes in the Sector 5 Church where he shares a spiritual connection with Aerith. It’s the first place they start to really get to know each other. It is a special place for both of them. And since where Cloud awakes is his Promised Land — his supreme happiness, that means Cloud’s supreme place of happiness is with Aerith in the Sector 5 Church.–
5. “…I think I’m beginning to understand. An answer from the planet…the Promised Land… I think I can meet her… there…” ~Cloud Strife
6. “I never blamed you. Not once. You came for me. That’s all that matters.”~Aerith Gainsborough
7. “A story of a love that could never be…” ~Official Square Enix commercial referring to Cloud x Aerith
8. “At first when I met Cloud, I believed he was similar to Zack. Little actions, the way he spoke… his kindness. But Cloud is Cloud. I, now undoubtedly, love Cloud much more than Zack.” ~Aerith’s monologue in Gongaga, Final Fantasy VII Dismantled, Square Enix
9. Aerith brought Denzel to Cloud:
“Denzel had collapsed in front of Aerith’s church. That’s why I thought Aerith lead him to me.” ~Cloud, Case of Tifa, Square Enix
10. Cloud to Aerith in Cosmo Canyon: “But, I’m -I mean- we’re here for you, right?” ~Cloud Strife
11. “Although in the beginning Aerith felt close to Cloud is because he behaves like Zack, her interest in Cloud himself grows and she is attracted to him.”~page 31, Final Fantasy VII Ultimania Omega, Square Enix
12. “When Aerith thinks of Cloud and Zack’s similarities, she sees that the present Cloud is not the real Cloud. Her meaningful lines like, “I’m searching for you” and “I want to meet you” all mean that she has discovered the existence of the real Cloud, although he’s not aware of it himself.” ~page 31, Final Fantasy VII Ultimania Omega, Square Enix
13. “First off, it bothered me how you looked exactly alike. Two completely different people, but look exactly the same. The way you walk, gesture… I think I must have seen him again, in you… But you’re different. Things are different…” ~Aerith, Final Fantasy VII
14. The hand reach scene at the end of Final Fantasy VII.
15. “After solving the puzzle about Cait Sith’s replaceable body, he tells one last fortune of Cloud and Aerith’s affinity. Cait Sith’s lines, which seem to expect Cloud and Aerith’s wedding, now makes it more painful.” ~Final Fantasy VII Dismantled, Square Enix
“Looks good. You are perfect for each other!” “Aerith’s star and Cloud’s star! They show a great future!” — “Poor Tifa!” ~Cait Sith
16. Cloud is searching to be with Aerith in the Promised Land at the end of Advent Children. Cloud also keeps Aerith’s flowers on his desk in his single bedroom.
17. “Each carries their own feelings and love for Aerith. In this story, Cloud also carries his undying feeling for Aerith even to this very day…” ~Nomura, Square Enix
18. “But if you play Kingdom Hearts, toward the end, some of the questions about the relationship between Cloud and Aeris in FFVII might be answered.” ~Nomura, Square Enix
19. Cloud agrees to be Aerith’s bodyguard for the price of one date.
20. Cloud is living in Aerith’s Church at the beginning of Advent Children because that is where he finds peace after his diagnosis —(living in a room by himself in a “family of friends” due to extenuating circumstances doesn’t seem to cut it). Remember, Aerith’s Church is Cloud’s Promised Land — the place where he finds supreme happiness and shares a spiritual connection with Aerith.
21. (Note: this is a variable scene)
Marlene: Guess what? Guess what? Aeris was asking me lots of questions. Like what kind of person Cloud is. I bet she likes you, Cloud!
Cloud: Let’s hope so.
Marlene: I won’t tell Tifa.
22. In Advent Children, when Sephiroth asks Cloud what he cherishes the most, the first image that comes to his mind is Aerith.
23. “As for Cloud… He sees Aerith several times throughout the film. It’s not that he sees her because he feels her presence. He sees her because her consciousness lives on inside him.” ~Nomura, Square Enix
24. “You should have… An older girlfriend, one that would take care of you. I think that would be the perfect type for you.” ~Mrs. Strife (Cloud’s Mom)
25. Cloud and Aerith share a date at Green Park in the Sector 6 Slum. Cloud and Aerith share two canon dates in Final Fantasy VII.
26. Cloud tells Aerith her eyes are “impressive”
27. Cloud only laughed and cried for one character — Aerith
28. Cloud has a “mysterious” feeling for Aerith
“After the explosion of First Reactor, Cloud met Aerith while running away alone. Cloud left the place, remembering the mysterious feeling he had for Aerith from the small conversation. He then reunited with AVALANCHE safely, and left for their base…” ~Final Fantasy VII Story Playback, Page 111
29. Cloud x Aerith have official SE artwork together, which is similar to other canon Final Fantasy couples
30. Cloud felt at “peace” with Aerith in her Church
31. “It was the sound of Cloud’s heart cracking. It was the cry of his heart that could never be healed of the grief he had towards Aerith’s death, the blame towards himself and the hatred he had for Sephiroth…There was nothing she could do about Cloud’s suffering and the pain ached in her heart.” ~Maiden of the Planet, Square Enix
Cloud’s heart broke when Aerith died.
Other points to consider:
1. Marlene is the one who invites Cloud into the already established ‘family of friends’. And let’s not forget, Marlene is Barret’s daughter.
2. Barret is the first person to call all of them a ‘family’ in Case of Tifa.
3. Yes, SE says Denzel, Marlene, Tifa, and Cloud are a family of 4. However, Aerith brings Denzel to Cloud, and Marlene will always be Barret’s daughter.
Denzel, Marlene, Tifa, and Cloud are only a family of 4 while Barret is away. SE clarifies this in Barret’s Character Profile in the 10th Anniversary Ultimania: “Upon finding out that Edge was under attack during the midst of his travels, he rushed over towards the crisis faced by his family and companions.”
4. Tifa agrees that friends can form a family together: ”Tifa thought she could get over anything while being with friends that she could call her family.” ~Tifa; Case of Tifa — I view Tifa and Cloud as being a ‘family of friends’ doing the best they can under extremely difficult circumstances.
5. Tifa admits they are not a “real” family:
Tifa: “You have Geostigma, don’t you? You are going to give up and die, is that it?” [Cloud is silent] “So it is…”
Cloud: “There is no cure.”
Tifa: “Yeah, but that’s not stopping Denzel, is it? Don’t run! Let’s fight it together! We can help each other, I know we can.”
[Cloud is silent again.]
Tifa: “I guess that only works for real families…” ~Advent Children/Complete
6. Tifa and Cloud have separate rooms:
Cloud: “I want to drink alone.”
Hearing that, Tifa lost control and said, “Then drink in your room.” ~Case of Tifa
There is also a screenshot of a bed in Cloud’s separate room.
(Why would SE specify that Cloud has his own room, show a bed in Cloud’s separate room, and then NEVER shown Tifa and Cloud together intimately? Maybe they are, afterall, a ‘family of friends’)
7. No romantic scenes are shown between Tifa and Cloud in Advent Children. They seem to share a purely platonic relationship that is often contentious, especially considering the extenuating circumstances they are in. It appears as though they are friends doing the best they can under extremely rare and difficult circumstances. While watching Advent Children, I felt as though Cloud’s heart longed to be with Aerith.
8. Tetsuya Nomura: “I’d say, [who Cloud likes] is all how you perceive the game. Cloud, as you know, is a very popular character, so I don’t want to confirm the answer either way. Since the players have affection towards him, I want to leave it up to the players to decide who Cloud likes.”
WIth regards to the Highwind scene:
Here’s some quotes about the Highwind scene. This is the primary scene Cloti’s use to prove that Cloti is canon, however, these quotes prove otherwise.
1. “After stopping Hojo from going amuck, the conversation with Tifa before they rush into the Northern Crater diverges into two conditions, according to Tifa’s affection rating with Cloud. When it gets low, the conversation in the scene that they spend the night will be apathetic and ends short. Next morning in the cockpit, Tifa says “Were you listening?” and stamps on tiptoe. On the other hand, when degree gets higher, the conversation of the scene that they spend the night will have strong emotions. Next morning in the cockpit, Tifa will say “Were you watching?” and feels terribly shy”~page 198, Final Fantasy VII Ultimania Omega
2. “Another event is when the party was dismissed and after everyone left for their own places separately, Cloud and Tifa spent the night together. At that moment, according to Tifa’s affection rating with Cloud, the event of dialogues exchanged between them from dusk to dawn and Tifa’s reaction and lines when she found out that everyone might see (or hear) that circumstance will be different.”~FFVII Dismantled, page 201
3. “Deviation – Two versions of the conversation before the final battle:
Prior to the final battle, the contents of the conversation between Cloud and Tifa can change depending on the degree of Tifa’s affection. If the degree of affection is high, the contents of the two’s conversation will involve deep subject matter and strong feelings for each other. As well, the sight of the two seen by their companions the next morning will lead to an embarrassing scene for Tifa, and she blushes greatly.” ~page 232, Final Fantasy 20th Anniversary Ultimania
SE has stated over and over again that the Highwind scene has two versions. SE has never stated which version is canon. Strong feelings are expressed between Cloud and Tifa ONLY IF the affection points are high enough. Thus, it is determined by each player who Cloud loves. Nothing in Advent Children suggests the high affection version occurred.
The “For the One I Love” page is obviously talking about romantic pairings. Tifa and Cloud are a (possible) romantic pairing, so obviously they are included on that page (Cloud and Aerith are also included). But the page is not intended to proclaim romantic pairings nor is it intended to canonize pairings. It is simply meant to show romantic pairings. And since Tifa and Cloud are only a romantic pairing if the high affection Highwind scene occurs, that version of the scene was chosen to be placed on the FTOIL page. But that has no relevance to the canonized storyline of Final Fantasy VII. That wasn’t the intention of the page.
The bottom line is: The FTOIL page did not canonize the HA version, it simply says that if the HA version is obtained, Tifa and Cloud can become a romantic couple based on mutual feelings. And it seems perfectly reasonable to include an optional couple on a page discussing romantic couples (even if the couple is, in fact, optional). Hint: Page 232 of the same Ultimania clarifies C/T’s optionality, which leaves it up to us to decide if they are, in fact, a romantic couple. All the FTOIL page proclaims is that they can be a romantic couple, not that they are or have to be a romantic couple.
And let’s put the Zerith excuse to bed, shall we?
1. “Although in the beginning Aerith felt close to Cloud is because he behaves like Zack, her interest in Cloud himself grows and is attracted to him.” ~page 31, FFVII Ultimania Omega
2. “When Aerith thinks of Cloud and Zack’s similarities, she sees that the present Cloud is not the real Cloud. Her meaningful lines like, “I’m searching for you” and “I want to meet you” all mean that she has discovered the existence of the real Cloud, although he’s not aware of it himself.” ~page 31, FFVII Ultimania Omega
3. “At first when I met Cloud, I believed he was similar to Zack. Little actions, the way he spoke… his kindness. But Cloud is Cloud. I, now undoubtedly, love Cloud much more than Zack. But Cloud is clueless.” ~Aerith’s monologue in Gongaga, FFVII Dismantled
4. “First off, it bothered me how you looked exactly alike. Two completely different people, but look exactly the same. The way you walk, gesture… I think I must have seen him again, in you… But you’re different. Things are different…” ~Aerith, Final Fantasy VII
5. “After developing his personality by using Zack’s memory as a base, Cloud still maintained the part of coolness even though Zack had cheerful characteristics. The part of Cloud’s coolness that keeps him away from the surroundings and the part of his asserting “no interests” all have nothing to do with the influence of Jenova cells. They belong to the real Cloud’s personality.” ~page 180, FFVII Ultimania Omega
6. “Aerith detected that the present Cloud is not the real him during their encounters. She knows it because of her mysterious, inherent ability.” ~FFVII Ultimania Omega
Other interesting quotes:
“For example, I was frequently asked if there had been a romantic relationship between Tifa and Cloud for two years, after FF7 ended, but I don’t have any clue.” ~Nomura interview, Dorimaga magazine, cited at FlareGamer
“Cloud and Aerith sometimes cause Tifa’s jealous feelings to show through.” ~Tifa’s profile, FFVII Dismantled
While discussing the “rare smile” Aerith brings out in Cloud, the FFVII Ultimania Omega says: “there seems to be something between them”. ~Aerith’s info page, FFVII Ultimania Omega
Personally, I’ve yet to see anything definitively that proves to me Cloud and Tifa are in a relationship. In fact, I see lots of evidence that Cloud’s heart is still with Aerith. But I’ll be the first to admit, there is lots of evidence that supports Cloti. I accept that evidence. But do I think the Cloti evidence counteracts or outweighs the evidence that supports Clerith? Absolutely not. And that’s the thing — this shipping war is extremely hard and never-ending because there is official evidence on both sides. They don’t call it a love triangle for nothin’!
It is simply up to you to decide which evidence is stronger.
Just to add on to the Cait Sith quotes: the main reason we bring those quotes up is because it paints a picture. Obviously SE is trying to show us that Cloud and Aerith are a romantic love interest, otherwise they wouldn’t have included Cait Sith’s predictions. That’s just common sense. The Cait Sith predictions just add to the bigger picture. Obviously there is faults with Cait Sith, but we are looking at it from SE’s intent. And their intent, by including these predictions from Cait Sith, was to paint a picture of a romance between Cloud and Aerith. And the same can be said for a lot of the evidence by SE — it is meant to paint a picture of romance. SE is purposely ambiguous because this is a love triangle that is up to interpretation. Most of the Cloti evidence is also ambiguous. That’s why this is a LOVE T-R-I-A-N-G-L-E.
Here is the quote that proves the SECOND CANON date shared by Cloud x Aerith: “Date in the Park: In Scene 04-10, Zack and Aerith have a date in Green Park in the sector 6 slum. An identical situation is seen in “FFVII” as well, which features a scene of Cloud and Aerith on a date in the same park.” ~CC Ultimania
And here is another quote I forgot to include that helps paint a picture of romance between Cloud x Aerith:
“After the explosion of the First Reactor, Cloud met Aerith while running away alone. Cloud left the place, remembering the mysterious feeling he had for Aerith from the small conversation.” ~Final Fantasy VII Story Playback, Page 111
That was beautifully said. Dansant.
Whenever I read articles revolving around love that are from generic video game websites, I notice that most of the time Cloud x Aerith are viewed as the intended pairing of Final Fantasy VII.
Here are the three examples I’m referring to:
1. IGN: The Greatest Video Game Couples:
“Cloud and Aerith (Final Fantasy VII)
Sometimes video games genuinely shock you – and Aerith’s untimely death was one of those moments. The game seemed to be setting her up to be hero Cloud Strife’s main love interest, and then suddenly (before even the end of the first disc, for heaven’s sake) she’s dead, just like that.”
2. 5 Worst Final Fantasy Couples:
“Final Fantasy VII is fondly remembered by its fans as a love story – specifically, a love story between spiky-haired mercenary Cloud and dowdy flower girl Aerith. But as many of you probably already know, it doesn’t have to be that way.
The pivotal moment in the game’s romance subplot comes while the party is staying overnight at the Golden Saucer amusement park. Most players will see the following sequence unfold as a date between Cloud and Aerith, but if you play your cards a little differently, Cloud will ignore Aerith in favor of busty martial artist Tifa. And if you play your cards wrong, he’ll end up going on a date with his hulking, gun-armed best friend, Barret.”
3. Dating according to videogames:
“…This shows her that he’s sensitive and appreciates her useless hobby, which sets her at ease and plants the first seeds of their legendary romance…”
Obviously some websites refer to Cloud x Tifa — but I think this happens less frequently, which speaks to a much larger point. If you only played the original game, the romance between Cloud and Aerith is obvious to the majority of gamers. Although the compilation material might lead some to a different conclusion —or simply reaffirm Cloud x Aerith— it seems that for the majority of those who have only played the original game, they tend to believe Cloud x Aerith are the primary Final Fantasy VII couple. And this isn’t by accident.
When you play the original game, it is obvious SE is setting up Cloud and Aerith to be the primary romantic couple of the game. The flirtatious and romantic undertones during their interactions are obvious.
The opening scene of the game revolves around Aerith, with the “Loveless” sign appearing above her. The juxtaposition of Aerith walking the streets of Midgar, with Cloud simultaneously jumping from the train, sets these two up as the primary characters and love interest of Final Fantasy VII. This, of course, leads to Cloud agreeing to be Aerith’s bodyguard for the price of one date, telling Marlene he hopes Aerith likes him, reaffirming his commitment to being Aerith’s bodyguard at the Shinra headquarters, two canon dates, an intimate confession at Cosmo Canyon, a wedding prediction from Cait Sith, and an “undying” feeling for Aerith that becomes “engraved in his heart.” According to SE, Cloud is Aerith’s koibito. If you can’t see the romance between these two you are either delusional, or have an unreasonable bias against Clerith, especially if you consider that a love triangle is specifically incorporated into Final Fantasy VII.
And because the Cloud x Aerith Golden Saucer date is not only canon, but also the most common date to achieve, most gamers (who have probably never read anything about the love triangle debate) walk away from the game remembering that Cloud and Aerith share a date. A date, mind you, that occurred after numerous romantic moments. Furthermore, Cloud’s reaction to Aerith’s death was more emotional than everyone else’s reaction for a reason — he had a romantic love for Aerith, whereas everyone else had a platonic love for Aerith. The romantic imagery during the burial scene is undeniable.
Then, at the end of the game, Cloud also expresses his desire to meet Aerith in the Promised Land — a place of supreme happiness. This is not just because of his guilt, but because of the romance he shared with Aerith. The very reason he has so much guilt is because of the love he had for her. His guilt and his love are not separate…in fact, they overlap and underly each other immensely. All of this leaves gamers with the overall impression that Cloud and Aerith are the intended couple of Final Fantasy VII. This is even more likely if you received the low affection Highwind scene.
Yes, Final Fantasy VII incorporates a love triangle into its storyline. Yes, I’m sure some walked away thinking Cloud and Tifa were the intended couple. But I think the prevailing notion was that Cloud and Aerith were the intended couple of the game, and I see this over and over again on generic, non-bias video game websites.
Sure, you can say most of these people have no knowledge of the compilation material and are therefore uneducated. But the original game is the most important and valid piece of material we have — and it appears that the prevailing opinion from those who have only played the original game is that Cloud and Aerith are the intended couple (or that they, at the very least, shared a mutual romance). In addition, the compilation material has just as much Clerith evidence as Cloti evidence (depending on your interpretation) so that point is moot.
It also seems as though SE has confirmed Cloud and Aerith as the intended or primary Final Fantasy VII couple through other games such as Kingdom Hearts and Dissidia. Cloud and Aerith are almost always shown together in merchandise, in other video games, in artwork, and make numerous cameo appearances together (Final Fantasy Tactics and Final Fantasy IX, anyone?). This feeds into the prevailing idea that they are the primary love interest of Final Fantasy VII. Cloud and Aerith are given preferential treatment because they are, afterall, the hero and heroine of the game. It is only natural that they are viewed by most as the intended couple of the game, and it is only natural that SE portrays them as such.
Furthermore — Cloti’s always say the commercial confirming Cloud x Aerith (“A story of a love that could never be…”) is not valid because it was released by an advertising company (even though SE likely approved the commercial, and for all we know SE helped create the commercial). But I’d say the commercial is yet another example of the prevailing idea that Cloud and Aerith are seen by most people as the intended couple of Final Fantasy VII. Whether it was SE, a promotional company, or a mixture of the two, obviously whoever created the commercial came away from the original game thinking Cloud and Aerith’s love was obvious enough to include in a commercial.
But if you believe that it was only a promotional company that created the commercial, some might be so ridiculous and say that they came up with the slogan simply because they saw a man holding a woman, so they assumed they were in love. But I think that actually proves how obvious Clerith is. The burial scene, by itself, seems to convey an obvious sense of romance. The scene is inherently romantic.
Sure, Cloud’s the main character — but I think SE would have created a cut scene that incorporated all of the characters laying Aerith to rest if Cloud and Aerith were only friends. Instead, SE wanted to convey an intimate scene of Cloud laying his romantic interest to rest. And the fact that those who created the commercial came away from the burial scene with the notion that it was, “A story of a love that could never be…” speaks to the obvious romance that SE was portraying between Cloud and Aerith throughout the game and in that scene. Imagery is sometimes more powerful and meaningful than dialogue.
Sometimes I think a small minority of Cloti’s deny what is painfully obvious to everyone else. For example, what Cloud says to Aerith in Cosmo Canyon is not explicitly stated to be romantic. However, SE has intentionally made everything regarding the love triangle slightly ambiguous. But if you were to take a poll, I’m betting the majority of people would feel that the Cosmo Canyon scene was very romantic (especially if you consider what occurred prior to Cosmo Canyon, the context of the situation, and the clear romantic undertones). The same can be said of Cloud agreeing to be Aerith’s bodyguard, their two canon dates, the wedding prediction by Cait Sith, Cloud telling Marlene he hopes Aerith likes him, the burial scene, Cloud wanting to be with Aerith in the Promised Land, etc. etc. All of these examples, when looked at separately, but especially when taken together as a whole, paint an image of an undeniable mutual romance.
Clerith is obvious to everyone who doesn’t have a Cloti agenda, and it doesn’t surprise me in the least that most generic video game websites consider Cloud and Aerith the primary romantic couple of Final Fantasy VII. The evidence is undeniable.
And in my opinion, the compilation confirms Cloud x Aerith even more. It is obvious Cloud still has a desire to be with Aerith in the Promised Land because he is not happy living with his “family of friends”; a family that Tifa doesn’t even consider a “real” family — a family that has always included Barret. It also doesn’t surprise me that Cloud was living in Aerith’s Church — a single, separate, solo bedroom might get kind of lonely. It also might get frustrating living with someone who continually treats you like a child instead of as an equal.
I’ll be the first to admit that there is evidence that supports Cloti. But do I think it counteracts or outweighs Clerith evidence? Absolutely not. Cloud has been called Aerith’s koibito, and Aerith is engraved in Cloud’s heart. I maintain that from the moment Cloud and Aerith met they had an undeniable attraction towards one another. This attraction eventually blossomed into a romance; a romance that has carried over into the spiritual world — The Promised Land.
Late comment, I know. Probably one no one will look at.
Personally, I’m neither. Not neutral I guess, but I don’t ship Cloud with either Aerith OR Tifa (and I’ve played the game 5 times, watched everything, played everything, obsess over the game, etc.). I think it’s more like Tifa and Aerith like Cloud, so one-sided (because they CLEARLY show affection, both of them). This is mostly Cloud’s role in who HE likes.
He’s too traumatized and…busy, at the moment?…to be able to pursue one (this can be argued) but the fact of the matter is that there is no clear, definite sign of Cloud liking either one. Each can be interpreted differently. It all depends on how you play the game.
Screw the movie, because it doesn’t take into account the different scenarios of the game. Things could go either way. Hell, he could like Barret or Yuffie, considering they also get a scene depending on how you play it. Anyways, the pairings in FF7 aren’t clear so it’s only canon if you make it canon.
My honest opinion is that Cloud likes neither, just as extremely good friends and it’s mostly one-sided (don’t get me wrong, it’s not jealously, which people have told me before. I wouldn’t pair myself with him either, or anyone for that matter. I simply think Cloud wouldn’t work in any relationship and the game gives mixed signs. It also helps that I hate the romance genre, another reason I love FF7 for it’s lack of)
However a point against Clerith is Zack, who is seen even at the END of Advent Children to be WITH Aerith again. However, I do NOT support Cloti.
Thereforeeeeeee it’s whatever you make of it
I love the part
The matter of Cloud’s guilt also bears some analysis. In all cases where he speaks of Aerith post-FFVII, it’s in the context of guilt. Believing that he has sinned in failing to save her. Hardly romantic.
people specially CLERITH FANS always says that cloud cant get over Aerith in ACC. If that’s you’re opinion you cant understand the movie. He is driven by guilt. As you can see on how he speaks with her, not romantic at all! HAHA
Aerith and Zack is his dear friend and failing to saved them both guilt over his heart. *as the ‘real’ cloud has really low self esteem, being with Tifa is what makes him whole but he cant let go of the guilt and forgiveness is what Aerith thought her. So he can live a happy life with TIFA. A woman important to him.
50 Epic Reasons to Support Cloud x Aerith
1. “Cloud was her friend, her *koibito* (lover in Japanese) – a symbol of what was important to her, and someone to be protected.” ~Case of Lifestream: White, Square Enix
2. Nomura of Square Enix doesn’t know the nature of Cloud and Tifa’s relationship *AFTER* the HAHW scene:
“For example, I was frequently asked if there had been romantic relationship between Tifa and Cloud for two years, after FF7 ended, but I don’t have any clue.” ~Nomura, Dorimaga interview, published at Flaregamer
3. Of the love triangles on SE’s “For The One I Love Page” (FTOIL), Cloud Strife is the only hero involved in a love triangle pictured with both of his romantic love interests in two canon scenes of romance (see the first row of images). Since Cloud is pictured with both Aerith and Tifa on a page discussing romantic love, the FFVII love triangle is the only unsolved Final Fantasy love triangle.
Some say that because the caption under Cloud and Aerith’s date doesn’t directly mention Aerith by name, it somehow invalidates Cloud and Aerith’s presence on the FTOIL page. However, the Cloud x Aerith date *IS* canon. Therefore, the caption is irrelevant. The caption under Cloud and Aerith’s was there to represent *ALL* the dates on the FTOIL page because *ALL* the dates are romantic (ie: because they are *DATES*). However, SE pictured Cloud and Aerith’s date because it is the *canon* date, and because we are meant to apply the FTOIL page directly to their canon date. The reason we only see the HA Highwind scene on the FTOIL page is because it would have been inappropriate to discuss or include the LA Highwind scene on a page titled “For The One I Love”. But if you could get different characters for the HA Highwind scene like you can for the date, that would have also been included on the FTOIL page. SE lists a reference page above Cloud and Tifa’s image on the FTOIL page so readers can find out that the HA version is not the *only* version, the HA version is simply the only appropriate version of the Highwind scene to include on the FTOIL page. Since Cloud is pictured with both of his love interests in two canon scenes of romance on a page titled, “For The One I Love,” Cloud can love either Aerith or Tifa. In other words, all the other love triangles have been solved *EXCEPT* for Final Fantasy VII because Cloud Strife is the only hero involved in a love triangle pictured with *BOTH* of his romantic love interests.
4. Denzel and Barret are apart of the same family, it’s just that Denzel is not *living* with Barret, which is why Barret does not appear in any of the quotes that talk about Cloud, Tifa, Marlene, and Denzel *living* together. Remember this quote?
“After visiting various locations with Tifa and Barret, Tifa opened the “Seventh Heaven” bar. Before setting off on a journey, Barret left Marlene in Cloud and Tifa’s care, and the three of them began living together.” ~Case of Tifa
It says that the, “three of them [Cloud, Tifa, Marlene]” began *living* together *AFTER* Barret set off on a “journey”. This unequivocally proves that when the words “live”/”living”/”lived” are used to describe Cloud, Tifa, Marlene, and Denzel, it is ONLY excluding Barret because Barret is not TECHNICALLY “living” with them.
5. According to Square Enix’s *relationship charts* found in the FFVII 10th Anniversary Ultimania, Cloud and Tifa are childhood friends *only* in both the Final Fantasy VII relationship chart and the Advent Children relationship chart. In addition, Cloud and Tifa never have mutual favor arrows, either.
The FFVII 10th Anniversary Ultimania provides two relationship charts. One for FFVII and one for AC. By including two charts it is meant to compare and contrast relationships in FFVII to relationships in AC. Essentially, having two charts helps highlight the *changes* the relationships have gone through between FFVII and AC. However, Cloud and Tifa’s relationship does not go through any *changes* because they are referred to as “childhood friends” in both charts. However, that is not the case for Cloud and Aerith. The FFVII chart states Cloud is Aerith’s “bodyguard.” Then, for the AC chart, it states Cloud feels a, “sense of guilt” towards Aerith. That’s because Cloud failed to protect Aerith — meaning he failed as her bodyguard. The difference between Cloud and Aerith’s two charts was the perfect way for SE to show us how their relationship changed between FFVII and AC — Cloud failed as her “bodyguard” in FFVII, so he feels a sense of “guilt” towards her in AC. Why did SE not show any changes between Cloud and Tifa’s relationship? Answer: because Cloud and Tifa’s relationship did not change between FFVII and AC.
6. Cloud, Tifa, and Barret create a family together after the HAHW scene. Marlene is Barret’s daughter and invites Cloud into their family. The family formed was not created for romantic reasons or formed from a romantic place like most families are.
Marlene: “I’ll put Cloud in our family too.”
Cloud: “I appreciate that.” ~Revised Case of Tifa
7. The Cloud x Aerith Golden Saucer date is confirmed as canon within the compilation:
“#111: The Planet’s largest amusement park is run by Dio. Cloud and company visit this place many times in their battle. They meet Cait Sith here. A PROMISED date [there is only one promised date in the game] that ends in a magical night. In the city of desire that floats above the sands, the light memory of the two people is asleep even now…Aerith: “I think I must have seen him again, in you… But you’re different. Things are different… No, Cloud… I’m searching for you…” ~Final Fantasy Art Collection
“In Aerith’s case, if you play the game normally,the partner that generally comes will be Aerith.” ~Final Fantasy VII Dismantled
“Oh, Cloud…I enjoyed our date at the Gold Saucer. The view from the gondola that night was really beautiful. I’ll never forget it. I’ll never forget you, Cloud…” ~Aerith, Final Fantasy VII Dismantled, Square Enix
8. Cloud has a separate bed in his private room during Advent Children.
Cloud: “I want to drink alone.”
Hearing that, Tifa lost control and said, “Then drink in your room.” ~Case of Tifa
People often say that because there is a lack of other furniture in Cloud’s room (like a dresser), it somehow invalidates the fact that Cloud has a bed in his room. But how does not having other furniture mean Cloud can’t sleep in that bed? The point is, I find it hard to believe that SE would include a random bed in Cloud’s room just for the hell of it. If Cloud doesn’t sleep there, who does? Until we see Cloud and Tifa sleeping together, it only makes sense that Cloud sleeps in the bed found in his room. This is evidence that a romantic relationship did not begin between Cloud and Tifa after the Highwind scene.
9. “Each carries their own feelings and love for Aerith. In this story, Cloud also carries his undying feeling for Aerith even to this very day…” ~Nomura, Square Enix
When *undying* is applied to a feeling or emotion that someone has, it is eternal and forever. So although you can make the argument that *undying* when applied to a fictional creature doesn’t mean eternal and forever, when the word “eternal” is applied to a human emotion or feeling, it *IS* eternal and forever. Therefore, it does not make sense that Nomura would be referring to Cloud’s guilt as *undying* when the entire point of the movie is to rid Cloud of his guilt.
10. Cloud and Tifa living together in Advent Children does not mean a romantic relationship exists. Remember Cid and Shera in FFVII? Also, remember that Cloud has a separate bed in his private room and that the family formed was formed with Barret and Marlene.
11. “There’s no relationship from FFVII to the Kingdom Hearts stories. I consider them separate stories. But if you play Kingdom Hearts, toward the end, some of the questions about the relationship between Cloud and Aeris in Final Fantasy VII might be answered.” ~Nomura, Square Enix
Nomura specifically says that although the two universes of Kingdom Hearts and FFVII are separate, the Kingdom Hearts universe might help answer questions about the relationship between Cloud and Aerith as it pertains to Final Fantasy VII’s universe. Cloud and Aerith are seen together at the end of Kingdom Hearts similar to other romantic couples.
12. Tifa admits to not knowing if Cloud loves her *AFTER* the HAHW scene.
“Do you love me?”
Cloud opened his eyes. He looked perplexed.
“Hey, Cloud. Do you love Marlene?”
“Yeah. But… sometimes I don’t know how to act around her.” ~Case of Tifa
13. Aerith Gainsborough: “A girl with the blood of the Ancients flowing through her veins who is engraved in Cloud’s heart for the rest of his life” ~DoC Japanese game manual, Square Enix
14. Love beyond death is a common theme in Final Fantasy (Tidus x Yuna, Shuyin x Lenne, Laguna x Raine, Ashe x Rasler, etc.) Plus, in Final Fantasy VII, you have Vincent’s bond with Lucrecia. Vincent can see her and speak with her in DoC, similar to the way Cloud can interact with Aerith in AC/ACC.
15. Tifa’s jealously over Cloud and Aerith’s relationship:
“The thing which she is unable to hide in her irritation towards Cloud is the fact that he isn’t merely dragging the past around, but because that reason might perhaps be related to Aerith.
FFVII: Seeing Cloud and Aerith developing their world together before her eyes, she inadvertently lets slip her peevish feelings.
AC: Upon knowing that Cloud had been residing in Aerith’s church after leaving the place they had been living in together, her expression becomes complex.” ~Tifa’s character profile, 10th Anniversary Ultimania
One of the lines specifically says that Tifa let her “peevish feelings” slip when she saw Cloud and Aerith developing their “own world” together. Why would Tifa be jealous if Aerith was only developing a world of friendship with Cloud? It is clear that Tifa is jealous of the world her “love rival” is forming with Cloud because the world he is forming with Tifa’s “love rival” is romantic, which is exactly why Aerith is considered Tifa’s love rival in the first place. Tifa continues to be jealous of Cloud and Aerith’s “world” during Advent Children, probably because she admits she doesn’t know if Cloud loves her.
16. “Looks good. You are perfect for each other!” “Aerith’s star and Cloud’s star! They show a great future!” — “Poor Tifa!”~Cait Sith, Final Fantasy VII
“After solving the puzzle about Cait Sith’s replaceable body, he tells one last fortune of Cloud and Aerith’s affinity. Cait Sith’s lines, which seem to expect Cloud and Aerith’s wedding, now makes it more painful.” ~Final Fantasy VII Dismantled, Square Enix
The argument about Cait Sith’s prediction should not revolve around how reliable he is. The argument should be about what was SE’s intent for including this wedding prediction in the game. SE could have had Aerith ask Cait Sith about her future and Cait Sith could have said, “You will have a bright future full of many happy times!” — this would have set the player up to get their heart broken when she was killed by Sephiroth. Instead, they specifically decided to include a prediction about Aerith’s romantic future with Cloud. It was a romantic prediction about her future with Cloud, not just a generic prediction about her future. So given the context of the game and how things were progressing between Cloud and Aerith, it is obvious why SE included this wedding prediction — so the gamer would have the idea in their head that Cloud and Aerith had the possibility of sharing a romantic future together, which would then be destroyed by the hands of the evil Sephiroth. A generic prediction about Aerith’s future would not have been nearly as meaningful or impactful to the gamer, which is why they specifically made the prediction about Aerith’s romantic future with Cloud. The romance that was clearly developing between Cloud and Aerith, in addition to a prediction about a their romantic future together, makes her death all the more sad. SE killed off a romantic love interest to Cloud because it would be more impactful to the gamer. If SE had killed Barret, I can guarantee you that it would not have been as memorable or as impactful to the gamer. One of the biggest reasons Aerith’s death is so sad is because she wasn’t just a friend to Cloud. Aerith had a possible romantic future with Cloud, which is exactly what SE wanted us to think, so that when they killed her, it was that much more painful and heartbreaking for those of us playing the game. Luckily, their love transcends traditional barriers and continues in the spiritual world. Furthermore, SE refers to this prediction as a wedding prediction. Why would they refer to it as a wedding prediction if it was not meant to highlight the romantic connection Cloud and Aerith have in the game?
17. Final Fantasy VII: After Cloud and Aerith share a spiritual connection, Cloud says in the final moments of the game, “An answer from the Planet… the Promised Land… I think I can meet her… there.”
Cloud wants to reunite with Aerith in the Promised Land.
18. “You should have… An older girlfriend, one that would take care of you. I think that would be the perfect type for you.” ~Mrs. Strife (Cloud’s Mom)
I’m looking at this quote from SE’s intent. Obviously Cloud’s Mom saying this means nothing. But what was SE’s intent for including this? Why would they choose for Cloud to have this flashback while he was sleeping in Aerith’s house? Just to provide some context: Cloud had just met Aerith. He agreed to be her bodyguard for the price of one date. He had just spent time laughing with her. Protecting her. Then while Cloud is sleeping in her house, SE decides to throw in this flashback where Cloud’s Mother talks about girlfriends and dating someone older. Then right after this flashback is over, you see Cloud in his room and Aerith in her room. Clearly this was meant to set these two up as romantic love interests.
19. “Marlene is a sharp girl – Even though she’s only 4 years old, Marlene is perceptive and well attuned to the woman mind. The scene where she ascertains that Aerith has favor for Cloud and tells him so, then says “I won’t tell Tifa!” demonstrates this grownup behavior.” ~Final Fantasy VII, 25th Anniversary Ultimania
Therefore, this is the canon version of this scene:
Marlene: “Guess what? Guess what? Aeris was asking me lots of questions. Like what kind of person Cloud is. I bet she likes you, Cloud!”
Cloud: “Let’s hope so.”
Marlene: “I won’t tell Tifa.”
20. “The staff has their own answers to all the scenes in the movie such as the angel statue that makes an appearance many times. But, even if someone who has watched it interprets it differently, then that is just another answer.” ~Nomura, Square Enix
21. “As for Cloud… He sees Aerith several times throughout the film. It’s not that he sees her because he feels her presence. He sees her because her consciousness lives on inside him.” ~Nomura, Square Enix
22. Cloud and Tifa expressing mutual feelings =/= romantic relationship.
Although this is a reasonable assumption, it is *NOT* always the case that expressing mutual feelings means a romantic relationship begins. As we can see, Cloud and Tifa are living in a world of very rare and unique circumstances that I believe prevented them from ever turning their mutual feelings into a romantic relationship.
23. “The place where he awakens. That is Cloud’s Promised Land……” ~Final Fantasy VII 10th Anniversary Ultimania, Square Enix
Cloud says he wants to find Aerith in the Promised Land at the end of FFVII.
Then, during AC, Cloud realizes that Aerith will always be with him, so his Promised Land is wherever Aerith is — which is why it says Cloud’s Promised Land is the place where he awakens (ie: the place where he sees Aerith)
And the reason I connect this quote more to Aerith is because of Cloud’s line at the end of FFVII where he says he thinks he can meet Aerith in the Promised Land.
24. “Both of them share feelings for Cloud — Tifa was close to Aerith, who can also be called a love rival. With that point in mind, they were also good friends. Nevertheless, it is not hard to imagine that she carries complex feelings as a woman toward Aerith, who had built up a special bond with Cloud that was different from Tifa’s. Tifa’s complicated feelings continue even in AC, two years after Aerith had departed the world.” ~Tifa’s profile, FFVII 10th Anniversary Ultimania, pg. 42-47
25. “I never blamed you. Not once. You came for me. That’s all that matters.” ~Aerith Gainsborough
26. “A story of a love that could never be…” ~Official Square Enix commercial referring to Cloud x Aerith
27. “I, now undoubtedly, love Cloud much more than Zack.” ~Aerith’s monologue in Gongaga, Final Fantasy VII Dismantled, Square Enix
28. Cloud to Aerith in Cosmo Canyon: “But, I’m -I mean- we’re here for you, right?”
29. “Although in the beginning Aerith felt close to Cloud is because he behaves like Zack, her interest in Cloud himself grows and she is attracted to him.” ~page 31, Final Fantasy VII Ultimania Omega, Square Enix
30. “First off, it bothered me how you looked exactly alike. Two completely different people, but look exactly the same. The way you walk, gesture… I think I must have seen him again, in you… But you’re different. Things are different…” ~Aerith, Final Fantasy VII
31. Cloud agrees to be Aerith’s bodyguard for the price of one date.
32. Cloud visits Aerith’s Church frequently after her death (even before being diagnosed with Geostigma).
When Tifa finds out she says, “Which is it? A memory or us?”
33. In Advent Children, when Sephiroth asks Cloud what he cherishes the most, the first person that comes to his mind is Aerith.
34. Cloud and Aerith share their first of two dates at Green Park in the Sector 6 Slum: “Date in the Park: In Scene 04-10, Zack and Aerith have a date in Green Park in the sector 6 slum. An identical situation is seen in “FFVII” as well, which features a scene of Cloud and Aerith on a date in the same park.” ~CC Ultimania, Square Enix
35. “After the explosion of First Reactor, Cloud met Aerith while running away alone. Cloud left the place, remembering the mysterious feeling he had for Aerith from the small conversation. He then reunited with AVALANCHE safely, and left for their base…” ~Final Fantasy VII Story Playback, Page 111
36. Cloud x Aerith have official SE artwork together, similar to other canon Final Fantasy couples
37. “It was the sound of Cloud’s heart cracking. It was the cry of his heart that could never be healed of the grief he had towards Aerith’s death, the blame towards himself and the hatred he had for Sephiroth…There was nothing she could do about Cloud’s suffering and the pain ached in her heart.” ~Maiden of the Planet, Square Enix
Cloud’s heart broke when Aerith died.
37. “First off, there’s the premise that things won’t go well between Tifa and Cloud, and that even without Geostigma or Sephiroth this might be the same…” ~Nojima interview about On the Way to a Smile at the Square-Enix website
38. Final Fantasy VII Advent Children: During the ending credits, Cloud is shown riding his motorcycle through numerous flower fields. Although Cloud is a delivery boy, he is shown riding his motorcycle through flower fields.
Nomura said in the Reunion Files that, “…we filmed the video for the ending credits in Hawaii. There are fields of flowers on both sides of the road, and the colors – yellow and white – are the same as the flowers in Aerith’s church.”
In addition, Nomura states, “With Aerith, ‘flowers’ have been her image throughout the series.”
39. Final Fantasy Dissidia: At the end of Dissidia, Cloud is seen entering a flower field. This flower field is eerily similar to the flower fields Aerith has appeared in, and the flower field shown during the ending credits of Advent Children. Cloud is also holding Aerith’s Holy materia. Before this takes place, it is stated by Zidane that each character is, “…returning to where we’re supposed to be.” Cloud is supposed to be with Aerith, which is why he returns to a flower field. Interestingly, Squall of Final Fantasy VIII is seen leaving when a white feather falls from the sky. This feather represents Rinoa. The parallels between Cloud x Aerith and Squall x Rinoa are obvious. During the game Cloud also says, “The one I really want to meet is…” And although he doesn’t finish his sentence, given the ending scene of Dissidia and the ending of Final Fantasy VII, it is clear who Cloud has a desire to meet in the Promised Land.
40. Final Fantasy IX: The Flower Girl calls Knight VII “cute” and Knight 7 calls the Flower Girl “beautiful”. Their entire conversation is very flirtatious and romantic.
41. “At first when I met Cloud, I believed he was similar to Zack. Little actions, the way he spoke… his kindness. But Cloud is Cloud. I, now undoubtedly, love Cloud much more than Zack.” ~Aerith’s monologue in Gongaga, FFVII Dismantled
42: Final Fantasy Tactics: Cloud meets a Flower Girl. Cloud essentially has the same conversation with this Flower Girl as Cloud has with Aerith during the beginning of Final Fantasy VII.
Please read these similar quotes between FFT and FFVII:
Final Fantasy Tactics:
Cloud: “My fingers are tingling… My eyes…they’re burning.”
Final Fantasy VII:
Cloud: “My fingers are tingling. My mouth is dry. My eyes are burning!”
Final Fantasy Tactics:
Cloud: “I lost…a very important thing…”
Final Fantasy VII:
Cloud lost Aerith in Final Fantasy VII.
Final Fantasy Tactics:
Cloud: “Ever since, I’ve been lost. Who am I? What should I do?
What about this pain…”
Final Fantasy VII:
Cloud:“What about US… what are WE supposed to do?”
Cloud “What about my pain?”
Final Fantasy Tactics:
Cloud “Must go…to the Promised Land.”
Final Fantasy VII:
Cloud: “The Promised Land…I think I can meet her… there.”
43. The hand reach scene between Cloud and Aerith in Advent Children is referred to as a “homage” by SE, which highlights the romantic relationship between Cloud and Aerith that has continued into the spiritual world.
“The ending scene of the battle with Bahamut, the scene where Aerith reaches out her hand, is homage to the last scene from a previous production. It was Tetsuya (Nomura)’s idea….” ~Nojima, Reunion Files
44. Cloud: “Here I met a flower girl. She’s a girl with impressive eyes. She’s around my age, or older by one or two years but the innocent radiance in her eyes simply makes her suddenly look younger. (…) Maybe she’s pleased that the flower was sold, because the worried look on her face had vanished. If this smile costs only one gil, it is a good purchase.” ~Final Fantasy Dismantled
45. Cloud Strife: “The cycle of nature and your stupid plan don’t mean a thing. Aerith is gone. Aerith will no longer talk, no longer laugh, cry…… or get angry…… What about us…… what are WE supposed to do?”
46. “After stopping Hojo from going amuck, the conversation with Tifa before they rush into the Northern Crater diverges into two conditions, according to Tifa’s affection rating with Cloud. When it gets low, the conversation in the scene that they spend the night will be apathetic and ends short. Next morning in the cockpit, Tifa says “Were you listening?” and stamps on tiptoe. On the other hand, when degree gets higher, the conversation of the scene that they spend the night will have strong emotions. Next morning in the cockpit, Tifa will say “Were you watching?” and feels terribly shy” ~page 198, Final Fantasy VII Ultimania Omega
47. “Deviation – Two versions of the conversation before the final battle. Prior to the final battle, the contents of the conversation between Cloud and Tifa can change depending on the degree of Tifa’s affection. If the degree of affection is high, the contents of the two’s conversation will involve deep subject matter and strong feelings for each other. As well, the sight of the two seen by their companions the next morning will lead to an embarrassing scene for Tifa, and she blushes greatly.” ~page 232, Final Fantasy 20th Anniversary Ultimania
48. “Another event is when the party was dismissed and after everyone left for their own places separately, Cloud and Tifa spent the night together. At that moment, according to Tifa’s affection rating with Cloud, the event of “dialogues exchanged between them from dusk to dawn” and “Tifa’s reaction and lines when she found out that everyone might see (or hear) that circumstance” will be different.” ~FFVII Dismantled, page 201
49. “And having two heroines, Aerith and Tifa, and having the hero waver between them, at the time that was something new.” ~Interview with the creators, pg. 8-13, 10th Anniversary Ultimania
50. SE officially named Cloud and Aerith the Emperor and Empress in Final Fantasy Airborne Brigade.
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Hi, I finished the game, seen the cutseens of DoC and CC, read almost every lore document available… and, I must say that the debate can be seen in two ways. Who Cloud loves the most, who Cloud will be with as a couple.
I think the first one is undebatable becuase there are a lot of grey areas. Starting with the fact of the “date mechanics”, the story will follow as the players wants it to follow.
The second one is more obvious, TIFA, Aeirth is dead. End of story. This article makes perfect sense at exposing the arguments which suggests that Cloud and Tifa are a couple. ¿Would that be different if Aerith would have not died? Maybe, we dont know, and will never know.
Great Game, I dont know if has happened to you but its difficult to let go the characters and the story… ¿does any of you know any other RPG that can make you love the story as much as FFVII?
p.D: Sorry for my bad grammar or spelling, English is not my native language.
This is an old thread but…You made some great points. Ya know I’ve always been a big Clerith fan back in the old days when I first played ff7- when ff7 first came out. Idk I just loved tragic love stories (a love that can never be/star crossed love/etc) & prefer Aerith’s strong personality/ character especially paired with Cloud more over Tifa. I like Tifa too tho, don’t get me wrong. I always have her or Aerith in my party. Lol But after all the release of the ff7 compilation & getting to know Zack… I totally shipped to ZackxAerith so yes, CloudxTifa. I also like Zack better than Cloud now. Lol But I still like Cloud. Nowadays, I don’t really care what ppl ship to whether it’s CloudxTifa, AerithxTifa, ZackxAerith, ZackxTifa, AerithxTifa, CloudxZack, CloudxSephiroth, etc. Lol It’s their own fantasy, idgaf. But yea since the release of all this compilation & interviews, etc I believe CloudxTifa is canon nowadays. Maybe I wouldn’t believe it if FF7 ended just as is & had not Square released all this compilation – which as a big FF7 fan that I am, I’m getting kinda tired of.. Or maybe I just grew up/matured & realized Cloud being still in love with a dead character and emoing is just too tragic and depressing. After all that he went through, I think he deserves happiness with a living being – Tifa is the only character I can think of that fits this role. Making a new character as the love interest for Cloud is retarded and out of the question so yes, Tifa it is. Makes more sense. But that doesn’t mean Clerith fans should stop shipping bc in truth they have their own minds & thoughts so… do whatever you guys want. I just wish Square would stop making more ff7 compilation games/etc & make new and better FF series. Like really, I want new compelling stories & complex characters, Square! Focus on that!
cloudxtifa. take a look at this.
quote Tifa’s profile Crisis Core Ultimania
Link to the FFVII Series
The only woman who knows Cloud’s past.
In FF7, Tifa is the only one who knows Cloud’s childhood, and furthermore, she holds the key to people involved in the story of Nibelheim’s burning down, which is also depicted in CC. She and Cloud came to realize their feelings for each other in the end of the story, and live together in AC and DC.
quote Cloud’s profile FFVII 10th Anv. Ult.
Advent Children
The happier he is now,
The more Cloud is tormented by painful “memories” of the past.
Age: 23
Now running a delivery business while helping out Tifa with the newly opened “Seventh Heaven” bar, Cloud, Tifa, Marlene and Denzel lived together like a family.
……….
The more he realizes how happy he is living with Tifa and the children, the more the fear of losing that and regrets toward the past trouble Cloud…
……….
With the support of former allies and Tifa, an important woman to him and now also part of his family, Cloud regains the courage to move forward.
……….
· AC – Edge~Midgar
With the help of his friends, he defeated Bahamut SHIN, which Kadaj’s gang had summoned. He defeated Sephiroth after his Advent, and returned to Tifa and the children.
quote Tifa’s profile FFVII 10 Anv. Ult.
She ventured into Lifestream together with Cloud. Amidst the course of him trying to ascertain his memories, they became aware of the thoughts/feelings which each other was holding.
……….
I want to see Cloud — Marlene’s honest words, which reflected what Tifa felt in her own heart, caused her to smile. The present Tifa isn’t just Cloud’s childhood friend, but also the mother of the ‘family’ they were forming in Edge.
Again you can argue the why or the how. But not the who. Cloud loves Tifa. And they are the canon couple of FFVII.
source: http://www.neoseeker.com/forums/1169/t1476193-aerith-tifa-cloud-love-triangle-iv/
sorry mofos!!! cloudxtifa ftw! (and i dont even like love couples….)
IKR?!?!?!??! along with my older (and oldest) brother, i HATE couples with a white hot ever-burning violent flames of hellfire passion but even WE had to join in. in fact, we hate couples even WORSE if they have children, but we both agree that if cloud and tifa have their first child we wouldnt freak out. if their child starts off as a baby then we’ll be ok. : D it just seems natural. although i like that S/E left us with the idea to think they will definitely eventually have their first child better, it’ll be alright if they do display it officially (it’ll be more proof on the cleriths mwahaha!). but thats why i want another prequel than another sequel in the next compilation entry. i’d like to see how tifa met barret and joined AVALANCHE and how she fell in love with cloud in the first place. and my brother and i agree that we think reno has enough fanbase to place a little storyline on him, before he was a turk. maybe he was a “city boy” like an artist suggests in deviantart (even good ideas come from that horror zone….), or maybe he was even a homeless thief. i like “city boy” better. anyway you cant believe how happy i am to learn you hate couples too but this one got to ya just like it did to my brother and i! : D happy debating!
i have read this twice bro and im going to read it again. this is a WONDERFUL article! thanks a LOT! tons of cleriths (although i pronounce it aeris anyway lol) have been changed by this and crisis core. im working on my own now because although cloti is canon, so is zerith, but i dont see a lot about these two couples. only “clerith and cloti” (i like saying clouxtifa best) are displayed, no offence to you though! you are the reason why im making my article in the first place. : D im still writing it in my notebook, then ill type it but im still working on what website to place it on. ill post it here for all to see when its all done! once again thanks!
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I ship Cloud and Aerith because Aerith is the first person in the game Cloud cares for besides himself. In fact, Cloud cares for Aerith despite not fully being himself. This fact doesn’t diminish their relationship, but proves how strong it actually is.
Before I go on, this is an important quote:
“After developing his personality by using Zack’s memory as a base, Cloud still maintained the part of coolness even though Zack had cheerful characteristics. The part of Cloud’s coolness that keeps him away from the surroundings and the part of his asserting “no interests” all have nothing to do with the influence of Jenova cells. They belong to the real Cloud’s personality.” ~Final Fantasy VII Ultimania Omega
So although Cloud wasn’t completely himself during disc 1, parts of the ‘real’ Cloud were present during his time with Aerith. It is also stated that the Jenova cells inside Cloud mimicked Tifa’s memories of him. Since Tifa’s memories were of the ‘real’ Cloud, Jenova’s cells mimicked portions of the ‘real Cloud’ that fashioned yet another personality for him.
During the beginning of the game Cloud makes it very clear that he doesn’t care about the world, AVALANCHE, or anything but himself. Only with the promise of financial reward does Cloud agree to blow up the mako reactor. Then, after Cloud’s first mission with AVALANCHE, Tifa has to promise Cloud an even larger sum of money to convince him to stay.
However, with the introduction of Aerith, Cloud agrees to be her bodyguard for the mere price of a romantic date. He laughs with her. He takes her home safely, and even has a flashback in her house about having an ‘older’ girlfriend. What could possibly trigger this flashback besides romantic infatuation?
Another quote I’d like to draw attention to is this one:
“At the start of FFVII Cloud posed as a “cool ex-SOLDIER”, and kept up a cocky front. After it is revealed that he was never in SOLDIER, and he begins to act like himself, but he still doesn’t show his emotions very much. The only time he laughs in FFVII is during a conversation with Aerith at the start of the story, when Jenova is still in control of his consciousness.” ~Final Fantsay VII 10th Anniversary Ultimania
This is significant. Aerith was able to evoke laugher from Cloud despite Jenova’s control over his consciousness. It doesn’t make sense that Jenova would make Cloud flirt and laugh with Aerith, and we’ve already established that parts of the ‘real’ Cloud were there during his interaction with Aerith. Therefore, it is very significant that Aerith was the only character that was able to evoke laugher from Cloud. And it’s even more impressive that she was able to do it while Jenova was in control of his consciousness.
Aerith brought out something in Cloud that no one else was able to do. Tifa wasn’t even able to make Cloud laugh when Jenova WASN’T in control of his consciousness. The fact that Aerith was able to make Cloud laugh when Jenova WAS in control of Cloud’s consciousness tells us Aerith could do what no one else could — bring laughter, happiness, and joy to a man who was profoundly messed up.
The emotional connection between them began during their initial encounter when Cloud thought Aerith’s eyes were, “impressive” (1) and that her smile was a, “good purchase” (1). Cloud left this initial encounter with a, “mysterious” feeling (2), a feeling that I believe was love at first sight.
In fact, after all that unfolded during their first two encounters, Cloud tells Marlene that he “hopes” Aerith likes him.
Then, Barret observes how when Cloud wants to save Aerith from the Shinra headquarters, it was the first time he had ever seen Cloud care for someone besides himself (3).
Then, Cloud and Aerith flirt with each other in the Shinra jail cells. This leads to Tifa letting her, “peevish feelings slip” (4) when she witnesses the “world” (4) and “special bond” (5) Cloud and Aerith were forming together that was “different” (5) than the bond she had with Cloud.
Both Barret and Tifa see what should be obvious: Cloud. Likes. Aerith. He likes her a lot. He likes her so much he is willing to risk his life and save her from the Shinra headquarters after only knowing her for a short while (6). Aerith is the first person Cloud cares for besides himself.
In other words, if what we witnessed with our own eyes wasn’t enough, Squaresoft reinforces the obvious romantic attraction between Cloud and Aerith by telling us Tifa let her, “peevish feelings slip” (4) when she observed Cloud and Aerith’s “special bond” (5), and when they had Barret say Aerith was the first person he ever saw Cloud care for besides himself (3).
In a way, Barret’s observation is a clear indication to the gamer that Aerith must be someone very special and important to Cloud because despite how messed up he is, he truly cares for Aerith.
Eventually, Cloud tells Aerith he is there for her in Cosmo Canyon, and a date is shared between them in Golden Saucer. Cloud and Aerith’s time together during disc 1 is a very typical way in which romantic relationships begin — initial attraction based on physical features (check), thinking about relationships/talking about them (check), telling others you like them (check), flirting/spending alone time together/getting to know each other (check), outsiders observing/commenting on the mutual attraction (check), expressing that you are there for the other person (check), going on a date (check).
Then, when Aerith dies, you see Cloud breakdown, cry, and express more emotion than he has all game. Cloud expresses more emotion than any other character when Aerith dies. If his reaction and guilt about Aerith’s death does not prove he truly cares for and loves Aerith (despite not being his complete self when they interacted) I don’t know what does.
Even after Cloud realizes his past and fully becomes himself, he still carries grief, guilt, and sorrow over Aerith’s death. Therefore, if their relationship is somehow null-in-void because Cloud wasn’t completely himself during the time they spent together, why does Cloud (after becoming his complete self) harbor such emotion towards Aerith based on the time they shared while he was ‘messed up’? If Cloud continues to feel strong emotions towards Aerith after fully becoming himself, it means the time they spent together while he was ‘messed up’ is relevant and meaningful to the ‘real’ Cloud.
Aerith was the primary character that was able to bring out the caring side of the ‘real’ Cloud, despite how messed up he was. In other words, Aerith was able to bring the ‘real’ Cloud to the surface and have the ‘real’ Cloud shine through during a time when the ‘real’ Cloud was buried beneath Jenova’s cells and Zack’s memories.
It is silly and downright ridiculous to say that because Cloud wasn’t fully himself during most of his interaction with Aerith that their relationship is somehow insignificant or ‘lesser’. I believe that Cloud not being his complete self makes the case for Cloud x Aerith stronger. It proves that Aerith was the only character that was able to have the ‘real’ Cloud shine through and show us that Cloud not only cares for other people, but that he can, yes, even laugh.
“…there seems to be something between them”. ~Final Fantasy VII Ultimania Omega, Square Enix
____________________________________
1: “She’s a girl with impressive eyes. She’s around my age, or elder by one or two years. But the innocent radiance in her eyes simply makes her suddenly look younger.
Aerith: “Excuse me, what happened?”
She asked me the question, and then I bought a flower from her, which is rare in Midgar.
Maybe she’s pleased that the flower was sold, because the worried look on her face had vanished. If this smile costs only one gil, it is a good purchase.” ~Final Fantasy Dismantled ____________________________________
2: “After the explosion of First Reactor, Cloud met Aerith while running away alone. Cloud left the place, remembering the mysterious feeling he had for Aerith from the small conversation. He then reunited with AVALANCHE safely, and left for their base…” ~Final Fantasy VII, Story Playback, Page 111
____________________________________
3: Cloud: I didn’t want to start a ruckus till we saved Aerith. I should have known that was impossible though…
Barret: Heh, heh, heh.
Cloud: What is it? You’re givin’ me the willies.
Barret: So there are times when even you fight for other people. I am impressed.
Cloud: Who cares if you’re impressed…?
____________________________________
4: “Seeing Cloud and Aerith developing their world together before her eyes, she inadvertently lets slip her peevish feelings.” ~Final Fantasy 10th Anniversary Ultimania
____________________________________
5: “Both of them share feelings for Cloud — Tifa was close to Aerith, who can also be called a love rival. With that point in mind, they were also good friends. Nevertheless, it is not hard to imagine that she carries complex feelings as a woman toward Aerith, who had built up a special bond with Cloud that was different from Tifa’s. Tifa’s complicated feelings continue even in AC, two years after Aerith had departed the world.” ~Final Fantasy 10th Anniversary Ultimania
____________________________________
6: “Cloud: And then, Aerith got kidnapped.
In exchange for Marlene’s safety, she was taken away by the Turks.
If only she was not involved in this battle between me and Shinra…..
Aerith’s mother told us that she’s a foster child. And because she’s the last survival of “the Ancents,” Shinra was after her since she was little.
So far, it seemed the Turks had never tried to forcibly take her away in violent manner. They just persistently asked for her cooperation.
But, Shinra was entirely impetuous this time.
If Shinra changed the strategy all of a sudden, then no one can guarantee her safety.
I need to get in Shinra building.
I need to rescue her……by all means!” ~Final Fantasy Dismantled
Dissidia analysis needs to get updated for duodecim. Clouds lines in the 13th cycle can be new interpreted to involve Tifa.
Ugh, Tifa is wasted on that clown. Nice solid argument, but I think the character deserves better. Unless, in any continuation, Cloud spends his time tripping over her to make her feel special, they should give her another love interest and settle it once and for all. Let Aerith and the Lifestream take him. I want more for Tifa and any real TIFA fan should feel the same.
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Interesting read! Old post I know but I felt like leaving a comment of appreciation since this has had to be quite a lot of work!
I’ve never cared much about love stories in FFVII but may I say that reading the last part of this analysis made me think that the real love triangle of this game isn’t what everyone believe? I mean… Cloud’s light is either Aerith OR Tifa (I think Tifa), but on the other side we have Sephiroth just chilling there as his Darkenss, who is constantly chasing and be chased by Cloud. The actual love triangle of FFVII is Cloud with his Light and his Darkness people, it’s obvious.
Have you seen KH 2.8 credit ending? SQ would not be so obvious as to whom the intended canon of FFVII are.
As someone who originally was a Clerith, I personally believe Cloud wanted Tifa. Think about it, the whole reason why Cloud wanted to join SOLDIER was for Tifa to notice him. He said so himself during the Lifestream Event in Mideel. And Cloud didn’t just want to be noticed by Tifa, but wanted to be strong like Sephiroth to protect Tifa. He blamed his own weakness for Tifa’s 7 day coma when they were teenagers. Cloud called Tifa to the well in Nibelheim in order to tell her that he’s leaving town to join SOLDIER. That’s when Tifa wanted to make a promise. She didn’t want Cloud to be away/gone forever. Tifa wasn’t content with Cloud leaving her behind, even though she admitted they weren’t THAT close. It is obvious that even back then that Tifa wanted Cloud to come back to her, to save/rescue her (their promise).
Now, Cloud may have liked Aerith for a while. When she…gulp, he said his eyes were burning, mouth is dry, fingers are tingling. So I get where Cleriths are coming from. Even Cait Sith’s “perfect match”. Still, Cloud was still in Zack form at the time. Cloud was reaching out for Aerith’s hand after Sephiroth was defeated. But never forget that all of this happened to Cloud because he wanted Tifa to notice him. When they were alone at the end of Disc 2, he wanted to tell her but didn’t know how to say it, to which Tifa responds “Words aren’t the only thing that tell a person what you’re thinking”. Cloud allowed Tifa to sleep on him (to her embarrassment when Cid & Barret were watching).
Cleriths gotta remember that Cloud wasn’t Cloud when he met Aerith (or even when she…you know..). He remembered things he shouldn’t, and didn’t remember the things he should, according to Tifa. He couldn’t remember his promise at first. It’s also a wonder why the player was given the option to tell Aerith before exchanging names that he remembers her as the Slum Drunk. Cloud’s dialogue options can make him act pretty rude to Aerith but not to Tifa. Hmm….
This was a good analysis. The problem I have with this is you included Zack x Aerith to make your argument, which you didn’t need to and which also doesn’t exist. Zack and Aerith are not “together” in any romantic sense post-Zack’s death just because they’re both dead. This is a super flawed understanding of the FF7 lore in general. Aerith’s role after her death is expanded and she basically becomes a super-Cetra, taking care of the planet, healing it, and it’s a much bigger role than being someone’s “girlfriend” or existing to satisfy a Zack x Aerith ship. I wish you’d taken care to mention that the reason Zack appears is because Cloud was tormented by his death too and it was necessary for both Aerith + Zack to appear in order for Cloud to have a complete and total recovery. They both show support for him moving on. This is a much more beautiful, deeper, and more relevant explanation than “Oh they’re both dead! They appear cus they’re in love and meant to be.” That’s silly and not true. Even the fact that the buster sword is in Aerith’s church. You turned that into a Zack x Aerith motif, but Cloud never even knew how deep their relationship to each other was. He knew them as friends that had died. I saw it as a symbol of remembrance for them both, but you again turned what was meaningful about this into a symbol of romantic shipping BS. The flowers on the grave too, Cloud says to Denzel “This is where a hero’s journey began” when questioned whether the spot was a grave. It has no romantic hidden meaning whatsoever. As someone with a good analysis of everything else, I’m surprised that you skipped over the deeper meaning of these things and went right to the shipping route. If Maiden of the Planet and Case of Lifestream can be considered commentary on the devs intentions, this only further propels me to wonder why you skipped over the broader implications of Aerith’s new role in the planet’s self-healing process. Is it because she has to be shipped with someone? You were making a really good argument until you brought in that interpretation.
TL;DR – Aerith post-FF7 is not anyone’s lover anymore, she’s not meant to be shipped with anyone and belongs to no one. She has a new role as a guardian and healer of the planet.