Cloud Strife, the spiky-haired protagonist of Final Fantasy VII, stands as one of the most iconic characters in gaming history. Fans have come to love every aspect of him—from his massive Buster Sword to his complicated personality. But one detail has sparked endless debates across forums, Reddit threads, and gaming blogs alike—how tall is Cloud Strife?
Whether you’re a long-time Final Fantasy fan or someone new to the series, this blog dives deep into Cloud’s height and settles the debate once and for all. Along the way, we’ll explore some fascinating details about Cloud’s character, his history, and his relationships that make him a standout figure in gaming lore.
Who is Cloud Strife? More Than Just His Height
Before we get to Cloud’s height, it’s worth understanding why he’s such a prominent figure in the gaming world. Cloud Strife first debuted in 1997 as the lead character in Final Fantasy VII, a groundbreaking JRPG that became a cultural phenomenon.
Cloud’s Backstory
Cloud begins his story as a mercenary who claims to be a former member of SOLDIER, a group of elite fighters working for Shinra, an evil corporation draining the planet of its life force. Throughout the narrative, we discover that Cloud’s memories of his time as a SOLDIER are, in fact, fabricated—a blending of his own memories and those of Zack Fair, a true SOLDIER.
Iconic Traits
Cloud is instantly recognizable:
- Spiky Blonde Hair: A staple of his design, it’s an aesthetic that has fueled countless cosplays and fanart for decades.
- Buster Sword: This massive blade has become synonymous with Final Fantasy VII and is a symbol of Cloud’s strength and determination.
- Brooding Personality: While initially quiet and enigmatic, Cloud’s character arc reveals layers of vulnerability, insecurity, and growth, making him deeply relatable.
Now let’s tackle the big question.
How Tall is Cloud Strife?
According to official sources, Cloud Strife stands at 5’8” (173 cm). This is consistent across Final Fantasy VII’s original game, its 2020 remake, and canonical entries like Advent Children. However, fans have often speculated that he appears taller due to his lean build and the way he’s framed in cutscenes.
Why the Height Debate?
- Proportions in Cutscenes: Fans have observed inconsistencies in how Cloud’s height is portrayed in relation to other characters, such as Sephiroth and Barret.
- Misinformation: Different sources over the years have listed conflicting heights, ranging from 5’7” to 6’1”. However, the official height remains 5’8”.
Comparisons with Other Characters
To put Cloud’s stature into context:
- Tifa Lockhart (5’6”): Cloud’s childhood friend and potential love interest, she’s only slightly shorter.
- Sephiroth (6’1”): The main antagonist towers over Cloud, emphasizing his imposing, god-like presence.
- Barret Wallace (6’6”): Barret’s massive build and height create a stark contrast to Cloud’s more modest frame.
- Aerith Gainsborough (5’4”): The flower girl of Midgar is notably shorter, which highlights her more delicate demeanor.
Besides his height, Cloud’s evolution over time is equally fascinating.
Cloud’s Appearance Through the Years
1. The Original Game (1997)
Cloud’s polygonal design in the original Final Fantasy VII might seem dated by today’s standards, but it was revolutionary at the time. Despite the limited technology, his spiky hair and the oversized Buster Sword left a lasting impression.
2. Advent Children (2005)
The CGI film Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children brought a more realistic portrayal of Cloud, complete with intricate details like his facial expressions and lifelike movements. This redesign made fans rethink his stature, as he appeared leaner and more mature.
3. Final Fantasy VII Remake (2020)
The remake gave Cloud a complete visual overhaul with an incredibly detailed model. His proportions, animations, and interactions with other characters reignited debates about his height, as modern technology made him appear taller in certain scenes.
A Closer Look at Cloud’s Relationships and Personality
Cloud’s character is defined not just by his appearance, but by his interactions with those around him and his internal struggles.
The Many Layers of Cloud’s Personality
Cloud’s evolution is one of Final Fantasy VII’s greatest storylines. Initially, he comes across as cold and detached, but as the story unfolds, we see:
- His insecurities stemming from feeling inferior as a child in Nibelheim.
- His deep sense of guilt over past failures.
- His willingness to protect those he loves, even when it risks his own safety.
These traits make Cloud a relatable and complex character.
Cloud’s Relationships
Cloud’s relationships are central to his character development, particularly:
- Tifa Lockhart: A childhood friend who understands Cloud on a deeper level, helping him confront the truth about his past.
- Aerith Gainsborough: Their bond is charming and bittersweet, as Aerith’s fate drastically impacts Cloud’s character arc.
- Sephiroth: Cloud’s rivalry with Sephiroth is one of the most compelling in gaming, as it’s as much psychological as it is physical.
Conclusion
The ongoing fascination with Cloud’s height speaks volumes about his cultural impact. Fans love to dissect every detail about him because he’s more than just a character—he’s a symbol of Final Fantasy VII’s legacy.
From his nuanced personality to his unforgettable design, Cloud remains one of gaming’s most beloved protagonists. Whether you see him as 5’8” or imagine him taller, one thing is certain—Cloud Strife’s place in gaming history is monumental.
FAQs
What mental illnesses does Cloud Strife have?
Cloud struggles with identity crisis and PTSD, as shown in Final Fantasy VII. Key moments, like his distorted memories and emotional turmoil, highlight these challenges throughout the game.
Who is Cloud Strife in love with?
Cloud’s relationships with Tifa and Aerith form a central love triangle. Fans often debate his feelings, with some interpreting deeper connections with Aerith, while others view Tifa as his true love.
Who does Cloud Strife end up with?
The game leaves Cloud’s romantic outcome ambiguous. However, his emotional bond and shared history with Tifa suggest she is often viewed as his primary partner by fans.
Is Cloud Strife related to Sephiroth?
Cloud and Sephiroth aren’t biologically related, but their connection stems from Shinra experiments and Jenova cells. Sephiroth serves as both Cloud’s physical enemy and psychological tormentor.
