Best Character Designs in Final Fantasy, Ranked

Summary

Lightning from Final Fantasy 13 is iconic due to her character design standing out in an otherwise divisive game.
Kefka Palazzo from Final Fantasy 6 looks the part of a mad jester with an intimidating presence in his chaotic evil design.
Cloud Strife from Final Fantasy 7 is iconic mainly for his spiky blonde hair and backstory, emphasizing his character design.

The “Final Fantasy” series is renowned for its exceptional character artwork that captivates fans, regardless of any fluctuations in the franchise’s overall quality throughout its lifespan. One consistent aspect that fans universally appreciate is the consistently high-quality art design.

Revisiting the legendary heroes and antagonists of Final Fantasy only serves to reinforce their lasting impact on the gaming world. With distinctive silhouettes and attire, these characters quickly become recognizable to players, illustrating their enduring influence.

Spoiler Warning: Some character and plot details are touched upon in several entries on the list.

8. Lightning (Final Fantasy 13)

Her Character Design Stands Out in a Divisive Game

Appears in: Final Fantasy 13, Final Fantasy 13: Lightning Returns

The Final Fantasy 13 trilogy has its critics, but fans can’t help but acknowledge that the main characters from two of the three games are as iconic as they come. Despite being often compared unfavorably to Cloud, Lightning’s intense personality and unyielding spirit made her a likable protagonist for players, eventually.

Her initial appearance is impressive, but players are captivated by the diverse wardrobe options she has in “Lightning Returns.” She stands out as a robust and formidable female character in video games, a role that the “Final Fantasy” series had been lacking after adhering to traditional gender norms for much of its history.

7. Kefka Palazzo (Final Fantasy 6)

The Mad Jester Certainly Looks the Part

Appears in: Final Fantasy 6

Kefka might have appeared utterly absurd, but artist Yoshitaka Amano skillfully designed him to maintain an imposing image while still embodying the mad clown persona. From the onset of the game, it’s evident that this uncontrollable and menacing character would pose significant challenges for players.

He personifies complete disorder and malevolence, a trait evident in his character construction. He backstabs anyone obstructing his path to power, even assuming a semi-divine status that requires deflation once the heroes assemble in the World of Ruin.

6. Cloud Strife (Final Fantasy 7)

His Spiky Blonde Hair is Iconic

Appears in: Final Fantasy 7, Crisis Core: Final Fantasy 7, Final Fantasy 7 Remake, Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth

Cloud Strife stands out as one of the most memorable video game characters, largely because he serves as the main character in Final Fantasy 7. While his typical Soldier attire might not catch the eye as much as certain costumes worn by other series characters, his distinctive hairstyle certainly leaves an impression.

Gladly, the remakes have done an impressive job at giving my outfit some personality, but when it comes to visual representation, Advent Children takes the cake as it portrays Cloud’s appearance most effectively. However, in terms of the original game’s character design, I am best known for my distinctive hair and backstory rather than my overall design, which isn’t a problem at all.

5. Yuna (Final Fantasy 10)

Her Heterochromia and Mystical Outfit Highlight Her Role as a Sacrificial Summoner

Appears in: Final Fantasy 10, Final Fantasy 10-2

Yuna was intentionally created with an appearance resembling a temple maiden and has gained significant affection among fans due to her unique personality, which becomes evident simply by examining her character design in the Final Fantasy series.

She embodies great dignity and responsibility, making it crucial for Tidus to join her quest to gather the necessary courage to challenge destiny. Her distinctive eye colors add an intriguing touch, while her vibrant outfit in Final Fantasy X-2 reflects her playful personality that flourishes in a world no longer plagued by constant turmoil.

4. Tifa Lockhart (Final Fantasy 7 Remake)

Boasts an Iconic Look That Turned Her into One of the Franchise’s Most Iconic Characters

Appears in: Final Fantasy 7, Crisis Core: Final Fantasy 7, Final Fantasy 7 Remake, Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth

Indeed, it’s accurate to say that her design caters more towards male audiences, but that doesn’t change the fact that Tifa is undeniably one of the most renowned video game characters in history, largely due to her distinctive character design.

She exudes an aura of strength and elegance, making her stand out among other party members in the series. Her attire is ideally suited for close-quarters fighting, causing her to become a swift whirlwind of fists during combat, leaving a brilliant impression on the battlefield.

3. Vivi Ornitier (Final Fantasy 9)

The Quintessential Black Mage with Classic Character Design and a Tragic Story

Appears in: Final Fantasy 9

From a perspective of a devoted fan, I must admit that what initially appeared as a casual character design turned out to be one of the most brilliant visual storytelling devices in the series. In this universe where Black Mages are synthetic entities, the sentient Vivi embarks on a quest to uncover his origins. His journey ultimately leads him to some heart-wrenching truths about his past, shedding light on the hardships he endured.

In the course of his journey, he encounters more mages with a resemblance to himself, eventually stumbling upon a settlement that shares grim news about his tragically brief lifespan. Yet, despite having no discernible facial expressions, Vivi’s sorrow and determination are palpable as he stubbornly vows to continue his mission of saving the world, disregarding the impending countdown on his life.

2. Squall Leonhart (Final Fantasy 8)

A Badass Jacket and a Ton of Belts Help This Character Stand Out as a Notable Protagonist

Appears in: Final Fantasy 8

Fans might have differing opinions about Squall, but they all agree that his character design is exceptionally flamboyant, in a delightful way. Those who are acquainted with Tetsuya Nomura’s design style will recognize his penchant for adorning characters with belts and chains, and Squall is undeniably one of the most striking illustrations of this trend.

In other words, while players might have their own views, Squall strongly embodies the character design that is synonymous with Nomura, a renowned figure in the video game world. This helps explain why Squall’s distinctive appearance has become so iconic.

1. Sephiroth (Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth)

His Silver Hair and Massive Sword Make Him the Most Iconic Villain in the Series by a Country Mile

Appears in: Final Fantasy 7, Crisis Core: Final Fantasy 7, Final Fantasy 7 Remake, Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth

To this very moment, Sephiroth’s cascading silver hair and excessively long sword continue to evoke fear and admiration in players. Simply by appearing, he who wields a sinister gaze has cemented his place among the greatest video game antagonists ever created.

In later versions of this character, he was equipped with a wing during his powered-up state, symbolizing his One-Winged Angel motif. This design alone gives Sephiroth an impressive on-screen presence, but fans felt slightly disappointed due to his frequent appearances in the remakes, as it diminished the enigmatic allure he possessed in the original game.

2025-07-23 07:04