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One of the greatest elements of the Final Fantasy series is the story and characters. Each entry brings its unique worlds and scenarios and features some of the best heroes and villains in video game history. What makes them unique, however, is the level of depth and development that we see characters go through. More often than not, Final Fantasy characters have layers that constantly change and evolve throughout the game. Sadly, it’s hard to pin down anyany one character as being better than any other. That said, here is a list of the best Final Fantasy characters in the series.
5. Auron
First up is Auron from Final Fantasy 10. First and foremost, Auron is most likely the coolest person in the entire Final Fantasy franchise. Wielding a katana and taking on a general samurai aesthetic, Auron fills the strong-but-silent archetype. He’s also considered to be the best of the guardians or warriors who protect a summoner. In the main party, he functions mainly as the group’s mentor, imparting wisdom and keeping a cool head. In a way, he is almost like a father figure to Tidus and Yuna. Many fans are drawn to these characteristics, and overall, they truly add up to make one of the best characters in Final Fantasy.
4. Terra Branford
Next up is Terra from Final Fantasy 6. Although Final Fantasy 6 is more of an ensemble game, many people consider Terra to be the true protagonist of the game. While the game has fantastic characters, Terra edges out others due to her interesting arc and power. At first, Terra has amnesia and is mind-controlled into working for the Gestahlian Empire. Much like the next entry on the list, Terra breaks free from the Empire and works with the Returners to stop them from world domination. Although she initially rejects her Esper powers, she eventually reaches her true potential to defend innocent children. Terra’s power and courage to protect the innocent make her one of the best Final Fantasy characters in the series.
3. Cecil Harvey
As far as character arcs go, Cecil has one of the best in all of Final Fantasy. Overall, Final Fantasy 4 is a journey of redemption for Cecil. After committing multiple atrocities, Cecil rebels against his former king and begins his journey to become a Paladin. Throughout his quest, Cecil connects with Rydia, the powerful summoner. This child had recently become an orphan after Cecil unwittingly killed her mother. In a way, Cecil’s first step of redemption is taking Rydia under his wing and protecting her. Eventually, Cecil’s heroic acts overshadow his past deeds as a Dark Knight. In the end, what makes Cecil so unique is his interesting character. Cecil is a kind, yet misguided hero, whose redemption is one of the most interesting plotlines to date. For these reasons combined, Cecil deserves to be among the best Final Fantasy characters.
2. Cloud Strife
As far as protagonists go, no other hero reaches the same depth, complexity, or fame as Cloud Strife. As many players know, Cloud is the protagonist of Final Fantasy 7 and arguably the most identifiable character of the series. Firstly, Cloud’s appearance is iconic. Between his hair and Buster Sword, Cloud’s style makes him stand out from the crowd. Cloud has a complex and layered personality that instantly draws fans in. First and foremost, Cloud dreamed of being a strong soldier like Sephiroth or Zack Fair. However, he becomes an average foot soldier after failing to enter the exclusive SOLDIER program. What makes Cloud so unique is this journey from an everyman to a hero. Overall, Cloud is a highly well-written character who deserves the spot as Final Fantasy’s best protagonist.
1. Vivi Ornitier
For fans of Final Fantasy 9, hearing Vivi’s name alone will bring up a wide array of emotions. As one of FF9’s main characters, Vivi is a young Black Mage exploring the world and discovering life through his newfound sentience. Overall, fans quickly fell in love with his sweet naivety and kindness. With Zidane as a close second, Vivi is the most likable character of FF9 overall. However, Vivi also has some of the best depth of character in the series. Throughout his journeys, Vivi learns that his species has an extremely short life span, and he is not long for the world. Vivi must come to terms with his mortality and learn to live life to its fullest. Along the way, Vivi teaches some important lessons to the party and, most importantly, to Zidane. Vivi is the best Final Fantasy character, with an ending almost guaranteed to leave the audience in tears.