Why Did They Kill Aeris?
The death of Aeris Gainsborough, also known as Aerith, in Final Fantasy VII is one of the most iconic and memorable moments in gaming history. Her demise has sparked countless debates and discussions among fans, with many wondering why the game’s creators, Square (now Square Enix), decided to kill off such a beloved character. In this article, we’ll delve into the reasons behind Aeris’s death and explore the impact it had on the game and its players.
Aeris’s Significance in the Story
Before we dive into the reasons behind Aeris’s death, it’s essential to understand her significance in the story. Aeris is a central character in Final Fantasy VII, and her connection to the planet and its inhabitants is crucial to the plot. She is a member of the Cetra, an ancient tribe that has a deep understanding of the planet’s natural balance. Aeris’s knowledge and abilities make her a valuable ally to the game’s protagonist, Cloud Strife, and his friends.
The Themes of Life and Sacrifice
The themes of life and sacrifice are central to Final Fantasy VII, and Aeris’s death serves as a powerful symbol of these themes. The game’s creators wanted to convey the idea that life is precious and fleeting, and that sometimes, sacrifices must be made to achieve a greater good. Aeris’s death is a poignant reminder of the consequences of Sephiroth’s actions and the devastating impact they have on the planet and its inhabitants.
Sephiroth’s motivations
Sephiroth, the main antagonist of the game, is driven by a desire to become a god-like being. He believes that he is the only one who can save the planet from destruction, and that he must be willing to make sacrifices to achieve his goal. Sephiroth’s motivations are rooted in his own sense of self-importance and his desire for power, which ultimately lead him to commit heinous acts, including the murder of Aeris.
The Plot’s Necessity
Aeris’s death was necessary to the plot of Final Fantasy VII. Her character serves as a catalyst for the events that unfold, and her sacrifice is a turning point in the story. Without her death, the game’s narrative would be significantly altered, and the themes of life and sacrifice would be diminished.
The Impact on the Game’s Story
Aeris’s death has a profound impact on the game’s story, as it sets in motion a chain of events that ultimately leads to the game’s climax. Her sacrifice inspires Cloud and his friends to continue their fight against Sephiroth, and it serves as a reminder of the stakes involved in their battle.
The Player’s Emotional Connection
Aeris’s death also has a profound impact on the player’s emotional connection to the game. Her character is well-developed and relatable, and her death is a powerful and emotional moment that resonates with players. The game’s creators wanted to create a sense of loss and grief in the player, and Aeris’s death achieves this in a way that is both unexpected and impactful.
The Controversy Surrounding Aeris’s Death
Aeris’s death was not without controversy, however. Some players felt that her death was unnecessary and that it was a cheap trick to manipulate the player’s emotions. Others felt that it was a bold and necessary move to advance the plot and convey the themes of the game.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Aeris’s death in Final Fantasy VII was a deliberate choice made by the game’s creators to advance the plot and convey the themes of life and sacrifice. Her character serves as a catalyst for the events that unfold, and her sacrifice is a powerful symbol of the consequences of Sephiroth’s actions. While some players may have been upset by her death, it is a moment that has become iconic in gaming history and continues to be remembered and debated to this day.
Table: Aeris’s Death and its Impact on the Game
| Aspect | Impact |
|---|---|
| Plot | Aeris’s death is a turning point in the story, setting in motion a chain of events that ultimately leads to the game’s climax. |
| Themes | Her death serves as a powerful symbol of the themes of life and sacrifice, conveying the idea that sometimes, sacrifices must be made to achieve a greater good. |
| Player’s Emotional Connection | Aeris’s death creates a sense of loss and grief in the player, making the game’s story more emotional and impactful. |
| Gameplay | Her death changes the gameplay dynamic, as Cloud and his friends must continue their fight against Sephiroth without her. |
Additional Resources
- "The Art of Final Fantasy VII" by Yoshinori Kitase and Kazushige Nojima
- "Final Fantasy VII: The Complete Guide" by Prima Games
- "The Making of Final Fantasy VII" by Square Enix
References
- "Final Fantasy VII" (1997) by Square (now Square Enix)
- "The Art of Final Fantasy VII" (2006) by Yoshinori Kitase and Kazushige Nojima
- "Final Fantasy VII: The Complete Guide" (2005) by Prima Games