Cloud Strife
Cloud is the main protagonist in Final Fantasy VII. He was once part of the SOLDIER program, a group of genetically enhanced warriors created by Shinra. Cloud eventually leaves this life behind and becomes a mercenary, and meets the rest of the cast on a mission together to sabotage Shinra. He is easily recognizable by his oversized sword, gravity defying hair, and sour disposition, but this is in part due to the fact that there have been many recreations of this character already. Between artwork, a movie (Final Fantasy 7: Advent Children), other games (like the Final Fantasy: Dissidia series), and more, even people who have never heard of Final Fantasy likely know about Cloud.
Even still, seeing him in such detail in the opening bombing mission of Final Fantasy 7 is enough to send chills down any Final Fantasy lover’s spine. The design has stayed mostly true to the original, aside from some practical changes like to his pants. His sleeveless shirt, single spaulder on the left shoulder, cuffs on his hands, and spiky hair are all very much the same. That said, there are some notable changes. His entire outfit appears more blue than purple and looks much more metallic and protective in spots.
Barret Walace
Barret is loyal, powerful, determined, and at times, a little crass. As the leader of the secretive resistance movement known as AVALANCHE, Barret is sometimes referred to by Shinra as a terrorist. Barret realized that the methods of gathering energy used by Shinra were killing the planet and formed his group to try and set things straight. He puts his incredible strength and gatling gun arm to great use in combat and is never too afraid to do what must be done for what he sees as the greater good.
All things considered, Square Enix did a great job of portraying Barret’s size and strength despite the technical limitations it dealt with in 1997. The new design looks great, mirroring the dimensions of the old perfectly, while making him seem even more gruff. Barret has ditched the torn up jacket that looks two sizes too small for him for a much more practical looking vest and a sleeveless undershirt. His pants and dog tags give him a tactical, almost militaristic look that suits his character well.
Tifa Lockhart
Tifa Lockhart is Cloud’s best friend; the two grew up together in the same hometown before Cloud left to join SOLDIER. She is a member of AVALANCHE as well and is the one responsible for convincing Cloud to join up with the group following his departure from the SOLDIER program. Tifa is an extremely skilled combatant, able to be just a deadly as her allies using nothing but her bare hands. Despite this, she is very supportive and optimistic, often working as the glue that keeps the group together and moving forward rather than dwelling on the past.
