Final Fantasy VII Rebirth Stirs Controversy: Is Cloud and Aerith's Bond Truly "Sisterly"?

A heated fan debate has centered on Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, the eagerly awaited follow-up to the critically acclaimed Final Fantasy VII Remake. The origin of the dispute? The nature of the bond between the mysterious flower girl Aerith Gainsborough and the stoic protagonist Cloud Strife. Many fans have strong feelings about the romantic future of these renowned characters, and director Naoki Hamaguchi’s recent remarks that their bond is “sisterly” have sparked a heated debate among them.

“Sisterly Love”: A Divisive Interpretation

Hamaguchi recently discussed the development team’s strategy for depicting Cloud and Aerith’s relationship in Rebirth in an interview. He claimed that their bond is marked by a strong, kinship-like affection, similar to that of siblings. Fans have responded to this message in droves, with many voicing their disapproval and displeasure.

The idea that Cloud and Aerith have a “sisterly” bond runs counter to the sexual overtones that are frequently seen in their interactions in both the original Final Fantasy VII and its remake. Citing their indisputable chemistry and similar experiences, many fans have long wished for the two to start dating.

The Difficult Love Triangle: Tifa, Aerith, and Cloud

The appearance of Tifa Lockhart, Cloud’s childhood friend and another important figure in the Final Fantasy VII storyline, is fueling the flames. Fans have been enthralled with the intricate love triangle that Tifa and Cloud create because of their shared past and indisputable bond for decades.

The argument between proponents of Cloud and Aerith (commonly referred to as “Clerith” shippers) and those who prefer Cloud and Tifa (“Cloti” shippers) has become even more heated as a result of the “sisterly love” description of their connection. There are heated debates and even friendly rivalries within the fan base as a result of the two sides’ strong disagreements and emotional commitments to their favorite pairs.

Exploring the Nuances of Their Bond

While Hamaguchi’s “sisterly love” comment might seem definitive, it’s important to consider the nuances of Cloud and Aerith’s relationship in the context of Rebirth’s narrative.

Trauma and Healing: Both Cloud and Aerith carry deep emotional scars from their pasts. Their connection could be interpreted as a source of comfort and support, allowing them to heal and grow together.
Platonic Intimacy: Rebirth might explore the depths of platonic intimacy, showcasing a profound emotional connection between Cloud and Aerith that transcends traditional romantic tropes.
Narrative Subversion: The “sisterly love” description may be a deliberate misdirection, intended to subvert expectations and pave the way for unexpected narrative developments in future installments.

The Relationships of the Future of Cloud

In the end, it’s unclear what will happen to Cloud’s relationships with Aerith and Tifa. Rebirth is only one part of a bigger narrative, and as the story progresses, the relationships between these characters may change in surprising ways.

The producer of Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, Yoshinori Kitase, has addressed the controversy among fans over Cloud’s romantic life. Cloud is “deeply thought of by two different women,” he said in jest, implying that the love triangle will remain a major subject in the season.

The continuing strength of these cherished characters and the fervent following they have attracted are demonstrated by the controversy surrounding Cloud and Aerith’s romance in Final Fantasy VII Rebirth. The intricate relationships between Cloud, Aerith, and Tifa will undoubtedly enthrall and excite players as the Final Fantasy VII story progresses, regardless of whether their bond stays platonic or develops into romance.

It’s critical to keep in mind that this argument is ultimately a celebration of Final Fantasy VII’s rich emotional range. The fervent debates and wide-ranging interpretations among the fan base provide witness to the game’s lasting influence. One thing is certain as we anxiously anticipate this epic saga’s next chapter: the future of Cloud, Aerith, and Tifa’s relationships remains a captivating mystery, ripe with possibilities.