The Strongest Sword-Wielding Characters in Final Fantasy

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Summary

  • Weiss wields two powerful Gunblades in Dirge of Cerberus but ends up defeated.
  • Lightning’s sword skills in FF13 are unmatched, showcasing speed and versatility.
  • Beatrix’s sword-based magic in FF9 makes her a terrifying villain and opponent.

In most instances, the protagonists from the Final Fantasy series are proficient with the use of a sword. Characters such as Cloud, Squall, Lightning, Cecil, and many others are known for their mastery of this weapon. However, one might question whether they would rank among the strongest when compared to other heroes and antagonists from the expansive universe of Final Fantasy games. Could they succeed in a battle if they were deprived of their swords?

It seems likely that we should concentrate more on the combat using swords. In other words, let’s arrange these Final Fantasy characters according to their proficiency with swords, taking into account both their standard attacks and special abilities. This isn’t a contest to determine the strongest characters who just happen to use swords. Instead, this ranking focuses on comparing the top sword-wielding characters in Final Fantasy based on their skill level.

8. Weiss The Immaculate (Dirge Of Cerberus: Final Fantasy 7)

Double Gunning Samurai Action

In my gaming experience, I take on the role of battling the final boss, Weiss, in the spin-off titled “Dirge of Cerberus: Final Fantasy 7.” While Squall wielded a Gunblade for the first time in “Final Fantasy 8,” this game really amped things up by arming Weiss with not one, but two of the most powerful and stylish Gunblades within the series.

In a breeze, Weiss outmaneuvers Vincent as if it were effortless, yet he ranks lowest on the list because ultimately, he succumbs to defeat. Interestingly, Weiss resurfaces in the Yuffie DLC for Final Fantasy 7 Remake as a hidden boss, and his swordplay remains equally destructive there.

7. Lightning (Final Fantasy 13)

Fast And Fluid

In the game Final Fantasy 13, the protagonist is not just any character but Lightning. Not only does she wield a unique weapon known as a Gunblade, but its special ability allows it to transform into a rifle after her blade strikes. This feature gives Lightning an edge in combat, combining close-quarter and long-range capabilities effectively.

Although she might not be the most powerfully built in her field, Lightning’s swordsmanship skill is peerless due to her agility outmaneuvering opponents. Moreover, throughout this trilogy, Lightning ascends to godhood. Yet, even when stripped of that divine status, Lightning remains a character that villains would do well to fear.

6. Beatrix (Final Fantasy 9)

A Terrifying Knight With One Eye

In the realm of Final Fantasy 9, I can attest that Beatrix is a foe worthy of dread by both heroes and gamers. As the top-tier knight serving under Queen Brahne, she stands as a relentless force in Alexandria’s quest for global domination.

On multiple occasions, she assumes the role of an opponent, and it’s a battle that seems unconquerable. Her ability to wield sword-based magic swiftly defeats or weakens adversaries, offering players a brief glimpse into her mighty powers. Later in the game, she joins the party temporarily, allowing players to experience a portion of her strength.

5. Jack Garland (Stranger Of Paradise: Final Fantasy Origin)

Using The Power Of Crystals

In the game “Stranger of Paradise: Final Fantasy Origin,” Jack serves as the central character, and his raw power is truly a sight to behold. Accompanied by his companions, Jack’s ability to morph into various roles due to the influence of the Crystals is nothing short of remarkable.

Beyond this point, it’s worth noting that Jack is not just any swordsman, but a particularly talented one with a preference for large blades over slender ones. Following a fight with an adversary, he has the unique ability to convert their blood into crystals, which he then collects. Given these dark actions, it should be of no surprise that Jack eventually becomes the antagonist called Garland, a formidable knight armed with a sword, in the original game.

4. Cloud Strife (Final Fantasy 7)

Buster Swords Make Me Feel Good

Cloud hails from Final Fantasy 7, and he’s virtually synonymous with the series, serving as its most recognized emblem. He sports the distinctive anime-inspired spiky, blond hair and carries the colossal Buster Sword on his back. Despite the apparent improbability given his slender arms, he manages to wield that enormous blade in every game and ancillary material he features in.

In the remakes, Cloud exhibits an array of impressive skills using his swords, and without a doubt, he’s a formidable warrior in all versions. On the other hand, Sephiroth, the stylish, iconic, and powerful antagonist and rival to Cloud in Final Fantasy 7, doesn’t reveal many instances of mastery with his long Masamune blade. Instead, it enhances his appearance.

3. Cidolfus Orlandeau (Final Fantasy Tactics)

A Holy Knight

In the game “Final Fantasy Tactics,” the character known as Cidolfus is a variation of the classic character, Cid. Among all the Cids in the series, Cidolfus stands out as possibly the most powerful due to his mastery of sword magic. It’s quite plausible that Cidolfus was inspired by Obi-Wan Kenobi from “Star Wars,” given his gray beard and brown cloak.

In Final Fantasy Tactics, Cidolfus demonstrates significantly increased strength compared to other characters. His entry into the party towards the end of the game is highly anticipated, as he becomes an indispensable member. In fact, his power level may be almost excessive, but this makes him a delightful character to control when players desire a boost in their own power levels.

2. Clive Rosfield (Final Fantasy 16)

For Joshua

In the world of Final Fantasy 16, it’s Clive who takes center stage, and he endures a challenging life that rivals any hero in the series. Despite the hardships he faces, Clive’s skill with his sword remains unwavering.

In the game Final Fantasy 16, players can execute numerous combos using Clive’s sword and even unleash elemental attacks once Clive amplifies his power through Eikons, which is similar to Summons in this version. Additionally, Clive has the ability to transform into Ifrit, a fire-based Summon that often appears in Final Fantasy games; however, this transformation is more of an added feature. In his normal form, Clive becomes a relentless, natural force wielding a blade as he pursues revenge.

1. Zack Fair (Crisis Core: Final Fantasy 7)

A One-Man Army

As a dedicated gamer, let me tell you about my favorite gaming character – Zack. He’s a key figure in the epic saga of Final Fantasy 7, but it’s not until we dive into his solo adventure, Crisis Core: Final Fantasy 7, that he truly shines. In this spinoff, I was the one controlling Zack, and boy, did it show just how formidable he is!

Compared to Cloud, who can hold his own in a fight, Zack stands out as a unique powerhouse. While Cloud has the advantage of party members to back him up, Zack is the only playable character in that game, making each victory his own.

In a different phrase, we can say: Zack doesn’t shy away from hardships similar to Clive as he pursues justice. Unlike Clive who channels his pain into anger, Zack transforms his grief and rage into something constructive. Remarkably, even when faced with numerous adversaries, Zack is able to stand alone. The climactic scene in the game underscores Zack’s indomitable spirit, demonstrating that his determination transcends not only his swordsmanship but also his very will.

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2025-04-27 05:54