Did Cloud ever love Aerith?

Did Cloud Ever Love Aerith?

The question that has haunted fans of the iconic role-playing game Final Fantasy VII since its release in 1997 is, did Cloud Strife, the game’s protagonist, ever love Aerith Gainsborough? The answer, as it often does, lies in the game’s storytelling and characterization.

The Truth is Out There

According to Case of Life Stream – White, a novel officially written by Motomichi Nakano and designed by Kazushige Nojima, Cloud is the lover of Aerith. Yes, you read that right! Nojima, one of the primary story creators of Final Fantasy VII, himself confirmed this in an interview, saying that Cloud and Aerith have a deep bond, and their feelings towards each other are not just simple emotions.

Aerith Remembers Sephiroth, not Cloud

During development, it was planned that Aerith was Supposed to be Sephiroth’s sister, but they were later redefined as former lovers with a deep connection. This connection stems from their shared experiences as members of AVALANCHE and the memories they shared. Aerith also remembers Sephiroth more strongly than Cloud, as they share a closer bond.

Cloud’s Feelings Toward Aerith

Despite what the novel says, the game itself gives a different impression. Cloud’s behavior around Aerith is more distant than romantic. He is always ready to protect her, but there’s a sense of duty-bound concern rather than genuine affection. There is no explicit evidence in the game suggesting a romantic relationship between Cloud and Aerith.

Cloud and Aerith: More Than Meets the Eye

One could argue that their bond is more of a platonic friendship built upon shared experiences and trust. In various interviews, Nojima revealed that Aerith and Cloud’s friendship would become a central theme in the series’ story. Their bond might have been meant to transcend romantic feelings.

Cloud’s Love: Directed Elsewhere

Contrastingly, Cloud has significant feelings for Tifa (Lockhart), as highlighted by in-game events and dialogue. Although some fans may argue that Cloud is confused and torn between his feelings, this is not explicitly stated in the game.

Asexual Cloud

As an interesting aside, some enthusiasts theorize that Cloud is asexual, given his lack of overtly romantic interest in any character and a focus on action and purpose instead. This perspective proposes that his relationships with Aerith, Tifa, and others are more complex than simple romantic feelings.

Verdict: The Truth Lying in Between

It appears that the truth about Cloud and Aerith’s relationship lies in between the various pieces of information. While Aerith and Cloud share a deep connection, Cloud’s feelings toward Aerith can be seen as more complex, spanning beyond simple romance. Love in this context might transcend its traditional definition.

Conclusion: Exploring the Grey

The truth lies in the subtlety, nuanced storytelling, and characterizations woven throughout Final Fantasy VII’s narrative. As we strive to grasp the intricacies of Cloud’s love and the relationships within the story, remember that sometimes the truth can exist in the grey areas between absolutes.