Best-Written Characters In Final Fantasy

Summary

Final Fantasy games feature engaging character writing that highlights major growth and development.
Characters like Cloud, Yuna, Locke, Cecil, Vivi, Ignis, Tidus, and Squall all have intricate, emotional backstories.
The series showcases various narratives of love, sacrifice, identity, friendship, and heroism, making it highly impactful.

The “Final Fantasy” video game franchise is renowned as one of the greatest in history, captivating countless admirers due to its unique blend of maintaining familiar elements across titles while also introducing fresh innovations. Ranging from epic turn-based role-playing games to those offering exciting real-time combat experiences, this series consistently pushes boundaries with diverse gameplay concepts.

A significant aspect that sets story-based Final Fantasy games apart is their compelling character creation. Many unforgettable characters from the series owe their memorability to the excellent writing that shapes their personas and underscores the growth they experience throughout their adventure.

Warning: Major Final Fantasy story spoilers ahead!

8. Cloud Strife

His Memories Are All Over The Place, Warping His Past And Personality

Appears In: Final Fantasy 7, Final Fantasy 7 Remake, Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth

Cloud Strife is often recognized as one of the greatest video game characters ever, largely because of the profound character development he experiences throughout the series. Initially appearing as a stern, business-like former SOLDIER, his true nature is revealed following his plunge into the Lifestream.

It was discovered that the distress from Hojo’s experiments and subsequent mako poisoning caused Cloud, previously a Shinra soldier, to absorb the recollections of a genuine SOLDIER member who gave up his life to save his comrade. This astonishing disclosure facilitated Cloud in creating his unique identity upon regaining his memories, culminating in him instructing the group to “take it easy” and confront Sephiroth within the final labyrinth.

7. Yuna

A Summoner With A Heart Of Gold

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

In the game Final Fantasy X, several aspects were done exceptionally well, one of them being the development of its main characters’ stories. One such character is Yuna, a cherished Summoner and White Mage, who demonstrated her unwavering dedication to saving the world by being prepared to make the ultimate sacrifice. Fortunately, Tidus played a crucial role in guiding her towards hope, leading Yuna to fight against the cycle of violence rather than allowing it to persist.

In Final Fantasy X-2, she transforms into a resilient and committed figure, striving to enhance Spira. Later, the narrative delves into her character in a serene setting, emphasizing her role as the compassionate and sensible member of the team, demonstrating her growth since her days as a sacrifice.

6. Locke Cole

His Past With His Lover Makes For A Tearjerking Backstory

Appears In: Final Fantasy 6

It appears that Locke has a charming demeanor and a fondness for women, yet there’s more to him than initially perceived. Beneath his exterior lies a deeper personality, shaped by a poignant event from his past. In this past, he lost the woman he loved and was unable to save her, which instilled in him an intense desire to safeguard others, particularly women.

He struggles tirelessly to rescue her, even when all hope seems lost, but Rachel’s destiny had been sealed following a catastrophic fall that left her comatose. Stories such as these make Final Fantasy 6 shine among the other games in the series.

5. Cecil Harvey

Goes To Mount Ordeals To Find Himself And Becomes A Valiant Hero In The Process

Appears In: Final Fantasy 4, Final Fantasy 4: The After Years

Disenchanted with the wicked deeds he was compelled to perform, Cecil resolves to embark on a personal exploration by scaling Mount Trials. Upon reaching the summit, he leaves behind his past as a Dark Knight and emerges anew as a Paladin, dedicated to upholding righteousness.

In the end, it was this very thing that gave him the strength to reveal Cagnazzo as his father’s double and ultimately protect Earth from the Lunarians’ danger. His character transformed into a noble Paladin, demonstrating how Final Fantasy’s renowned job system could significantly enrich its storytelling, showcasing his heroic nature.

4. Vivi Ornitier

The Story Of This Charming, Heroic Black Mage Is A Tragic One

Appears In: Final Fantasy 9

As a gamer, let me tell you that among the legendary party members in the Final Fantasy series, Vivi Ornitier stands out as one of the most profoundly affecting and heart-wrenching characters. This Black Mage, who’s often shrouded in mystery regarding his past, eventually discovers a village inhabited by beings like himself, only to uncover an appalling truth that leaves a lasting impact on both him and the player.

Vivi, a synthesized being, unexpectedly developed consciousness, but the lifespan of a Black Mage is fleeting, preventing him from experiencing the positive impact his valiant actions had on the world. His demise during the conclusion of Final Fantasy 9 is heart-wrenching, adding depth to Vivi’s tale and making it even more poignant when recounted.

3. Ignis Scientia

Proves How Much He Loves And Cares For Noctis Over And Over Again

Appears In: Final Fantasy 15

In today’s world, loyalty and friendship are hard to come by, which makes Ignis a cherished character in the Final Fantasy series. He was deeply devoted to Noctis, willing to put himself at risk. Even after using the Ring of the Lucii, he allowed himself to be blinded in order to protect his liege from suffering.

In the realm of Final Fantasy, his selfless act etched him into an indelible memory, and it’s hard for numerous fans not to feel resentful towards Noctis for disregarding his friend’s devotion. Yet, it’s important to remember that the main character had endured immense hardships too, making their group’s tension a reasonable response to their shared ordeals.

2. Tidus

Becomes A Valiant Hero Who Never Lets Up, Even After Learning The Truth Of His Existence

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

At times, Tidus might come across as overly sincere, which could initially make it difficult for viewers to connect emotionally. Yet, as the story unfolds, audiences will eventually perceive that his optimistic outlook is genuine and uplifting towards those in his presence.

Instead of allowing Yuna to be sacrificed, he determinedly urged the entire group to defy destiny. After discovering that he was merely a dream set to vanish once Sin and Yu Yevon were defeated, he chose not to yield, instead continuing alongside the party until the climactic battle. Upon saying goodbye to them, he departed for the Farplane, accompanied by Auron.

1. Squall Leonhart

His Anxiety And Loneliness Are Very Much Justified

Appears In: Final Fantasy 8

Squall Leonhart, in the world of Final Fantasy, is often misunderstood. His gruff demeanor might lead you to think poorly of him, but his behavior is actually a protective shield. He uses it to keep people at arm’s length, fearing that if he lets them in too much, he might be hurt by being left behind again.

His fear of solitude is something he eventually conquers with Rinoa, who encourages him to express himself more freely and step into the leadership role everyone believed he was destined for. In a sense, Squall’s personal battles echo the experiences of players who retreated into themselves during their youth, but were later encouraged by friends and family to confront and overcome their difficulties.

2025-07-22 09:34