Delving into the Ages of Cloud and Sephiroth: A Final Fantasy VII Deep Dive

Yes, Sephiroth is older than Cloud. Several sources within the Final Fantasy VII universe confirm this age difference. While exact birthdays are shrouded in mystery, the game and supplemental materials reveal that Sephiroth is approximately 5-6 years older than Cloud Strife. This article will dissect their ages at key moments in the timeline, unravel their complex relationship, and address frequently asked questions about these iconic characters.

Unpacking the Timeline: Sephiroth vs. Cloud’s Age

Understanding their ages at different points in the narrative is crucial. Let’s break down key moments:

The Nibelheim Incident

This pivotal event, occurring approximately five years before the main events of Final Fantasy VII, serves as a crucial point of reference. During the Nibelheim Incident:

• Cloud is approximately 16 years old. He’s a Shinra infantryman accompanying Sephiroth on the mission.
• Sephiroth is around 25 years old. He’s a highly respected and experienced SOLDIER First Class.

Events of Final Fantasy VII (Original)

In the primary timeline of Final Fantasy VII:

• Cloud is 21 years old. He presents himself as a former SOLDIER but harbors fragmented and altered memories.
• Sephiroth is approximately 27-30 years old. While physically present only through Jenova’s cells and manipulation, his influence looms large.

Character Dynamics and Age Differences

The age difference between Sephiroth and Cloud contributes to their complex dynamic. Sephiroth, a legendary figure, casts a long shadow over Cloud. Cloud’s admiration and inferiority complex towards Sephiroth are heightened by this age gap and Sephiroth’s exceptional status. This influence shapes Cloud’s identity, even leading to the adoption of Sephiroth’s mannerisms and combat prowess, albeit distorted by trauma and manipulation.

The Impact of Trauma and Memory

It’s essential to remember that Cloud’s memories are heavily fractured and reconstructed. The experiments he underwent alongside Zack Fair after the Nibelheim incident fundamentally altered his perception of reality. This manipulation further complicates the understanding of his age and experiences relative to Sephiroth.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Cloud and Sephiroth and their surrounding circumstances:

1. How old is Zack Fair compared to Cloud?

Zack Fair is older than Cloud. By the time of his death, Zack is 23, while Cloud is 21. He is 2 years older than Cloud. Cloud joined Shinra when he’s 14, so Zack is 16 in the first few chapters of the game, until Angeal died.

2. What is the nature of Cloud and Sephiroth’s relationship?

Their relationship is primarily antagonistic. Sephiroth views Cloud as an insignificant obstacle, while Cloud is driven by revenge for the destruction of his hometown and the suffering inflicted upon him and his loved ones. Their conflict is central to the plot of Final Fantasy VII.

3. Why does Sephiroth hate Cloud?

Sephiroth doesn’t necessarily “hate” Cloud in the traditional sense. He sees him as an annoyance, a reminder that even a seemingly ordinary person could challenge his god-like aspirations. He feels that Cloud dared to stand up to him when he was reclaiming his birthright as heir to the power of Jenova.

4. How old is Aerith in Final Fantasy VII?

Aerith is 22 years old during the events of Final Fantasy VII.

5. What is Cloud’s relationship with Aerith?

Cloud and Aerith share a complex and developing relationship, often interpreted as romantic. Their connection is characterized by mutual care, vulnerability, and shared experiences.

6. How long was Zack gone for during the experiments?

Zack and Cloud were subjected to Shinra’s experiments for approximately four years.

7. Why does Cloud not remember Zack?

Cloud’s memories were heavily affected by the trauma and experiments he endured. He subconsciously integrated aspects of Zack’s personality and memories into his own, leading to the false persona of a former SOLDIER.

8. What made Sephiroth turn evil?

Sephiroth’s descent into villainy began after he discovered the truth about Jenova’s origins in the Nibelheim reactor. This revelation, combined with exposure to Jenova’s cells and the reactor’s mako energy, drove him mad and fueled his desire for power.

9. Is the Sephiroth encountered throughout the game the “real” Sephiroth?

Not exactly. The Sephiroth encountered throughout most of the game is primarily an illusion or manifestation controlled by Jenova’s cells and Sephiroth’s will. The “real” Sephiroth is encased in mako in the Northern Crater.

10. Why is Cloud so afraid of Sephiroth?

Cloud’s fear of Sephiroth stems from the trauma he experienced during the Nibelheim Incident and the subsequent experiments. Sephiroth represents the epitome of power and destruction. He also has Jenova cells in him and is being influenced by Sephiroth.

11. Is Cloud a clone of Sephiroth?

No, Cloud is not a clone of Sephiroth. He was a regular Shinra infantryman who was subjected to experiments that involved injecting him with Jenova cells and mako, which caused him to be connected to Sephiroth.

12. How old is Cloud when Zack dies?

Cloud is 21 years old when Zack dies. This event marks the beginning of Final Fantasy VII.

13. How long did Aerith wait for Zack?

Aerith waited for Zack for approximately four years while he was held captive by Shinra.

14. Why does Sephiroth say, “I will never be a memory”?

This quote reflects Sephiroth’s ambition to transcend mortality and leave a lasting impact on the world. He aims to become a god-like figure whose influence endures beyond his physical existence.

15. Why does Cloud hallucinate Sephiroth?

Cloud hallucinates Sephiroth because he is being influenced by Sephiroth through the Jenova cells injected into his body. Sephiroth uses this connection to manipulate Cloud and further his own plans.

Conclusion

The age difference between Sephiroth and Cloud is a key component of their relationship and the overall narrative of Final Fantasy VII. Understanding their respective ages, along with the complexities of memory and manipulation, provides valuable insight into the motivations and actions of these iconic characters. For more on the educational aspects of gaming, visit the Games Learning Society website at GamesLearningSociety.org.