Why is Cloud Strife So Powerful in Final Fantasy?
As a lifelong RPG gamer and Final Fantasy enthusiast, I‘m constantly impressed by Cloud Strife‘s fighting abilities. From his early days as an infantryman through his battles against Sephiroth, he demonstrates incredible swordsmanship and magical powers. But why is he so strong compared to others in the Final Fantasy VII universe? Let‘s explore the key factors.
Mako Experiments Enhanced His Capabilities
Cloud was subjected to truly unethical experiments during his time with Shinra Power Company. He was exposed to mako energy and also injected with Jenova‘s cells. This traumatic process endowed him with capabilities far beyond any normal human.
- Mako radiation gave Cloud preternatural strength and speed. After repeated treatments, his physical abilities started matching those of advanced SOLDIER operatives.
- Jenova cell infusions amplified his talents even further. He gained regenerative powers allowing him to heal rapidly from injuries that would kill normal people.
| Condition | Effects |
|---|---|
| Mako Exposure | Enhanced strength, speed, stamina |
| Jenova Cell Injections | Rapid healing, resilience |
These experiments were the initial catalyst that put Cloud‘s talents on par with elite Shinra troops.
Training with Zack Fair Honed His Skills
Many don‘t realize that Cloud received informal combat training from Zack Fair, the legendary 1st Class SOLDIER. The two were fellow test subjects and built a strong bond during their escape and time on the run.
According to Final Fantasy developer notes, Zack passed on specialized techniques to Cloud during downtime. This included critical sword skills and Materia usage tips tailored for post-SOLDIER fighting.
We‘ll never know Zack‘s full impact, but he undoubtedly helped Cloud start reaching his potential. By Final Fantasy VII, Cloud combined that training with his increased physical abilities to become a highly capable combatant and leader.
A Merciless Quest Drives Him
Upon arriving in Midgar, Cloud builds new bonds as part of Avalanche‘s resistance efforts against Shinra. He also discovers Tifa Lockhart, his childhood friend, opposing Shinra‘s tyranny. These connections give Cloud renewed purpose.
Cloud is largely motivated by a desire to atone for past perceived failures and prevent further tragedy. This merciless quest pushes him past normal human limits as the game‘s epic story unfolds. He accomplishes ever-greater feats to save new friends and the Planet itself from looming disasters.
This motivation and sense of duty is a subtle contributing factor as Cloud repeatedly defeats imposing adversaries. And surprisingly, it earns him opportunities…
His Inner Light Manifests at Decisive Moments
While skill and determination fuel Cloud‘s journey in Final Fantasy VII, fate seems to guide him at critical junctures too. He is presented with mythic blades like the Buster Sword at just the right times. And glimpses of his true self emerge to unlock devastating Limit Breaks against dire foes like Sephiroth.
Are these just convenient plot devices or ‘chosen one‘ tropes? Perhaps, but I believe Cloud makes his own luck too. By constantly striving ahead, he earns these moments of clarity that amplify his capabilities beyond everyday limits.
Light finds a way through the clouds at pivotal times, letting our hero tap into his full latent power. Call it destiny or heroic spirit manifesting, but somehow he always has enough.
In closing, Cloud can defeat formidable adversaries thanks to a combination of factors both within and beyond his control:
- Augmented Physiology: Enhanced cellular biology via Mako and Jenova cell experimentation
- Elite Training: Zack Fair‘s informal yet invaluable combat instruction
- Unrelenting Conviction: A desire to atone and protect Planet and friends
- The Hero‘s Arc: Moments of truth unlocking his inner light and full potential
This blend of enhanced capabilities, learned skills, unstoppable drive, and protagonist serendipity is what allows Cloud to conquer the game‘s challenges. That perfect storm creates Final Fantasy VII‘s most formidable hero and captivates our imagination 25+ years later!
Let me know if you have any other theories on the definitive factors behind Cloud‘s strength. I‘m always seeking more insights into my favorite game protagonist.
