Cloud Strife returns to lead your adventure in Final Fantasy VII Remake. Here's all you need to know to get to grips with the main protagonist in this reimagined version of the classic Square Enix RPG.
Cloud's Role
With two attack modes and good mobility, Cloud is pretty easy to control. Against low-level enemies, all he needs is a basic combo to eliminate several at once. He will almost always be in close contact with the enemy, and will likely be your main damage dealer and stagger builder.
Also, the counter-attack that comes with guarding in his Punisher Mode guard can destabilize even the sharpest of enemies in melee combat.
Abilities
- Unique Ability (Triangle): Cloud can switch to Punisher Mode, changing his posture and moveset. He'll cause big damage, but he doesn't mitigate as much damage with guard. If he is attacked in melee range, he will perform an automatic counter-attack.
The only weak point is that Punisher Mode limits Cloud's movement. Performing a dodge will also return to the basic Operator Mode.
- Braver - 1 ATB Bar: A particularly powerful short-range attack, especially when enemies are staggered. Be careful not to trigger it from too far away or it will hit the ground and be wasted.
- Focused Thrust - 1 ATB Bar: Dive forward and pierce the enemy from medium distance. Very useful in increasing an enemy's stagger gauge, it also has a longer range than Braver.
- Cross Slash (Limit Break): Cloud makes the sign of a cross on his enemy, causing huge damage. It doesn't generate too much stagger.
General tips
- Don't forget to use Focused Thrust to increase the enemy's stagger gauge, and Braver to cause heavy damage. In addition, hitting a stunned enemy while in Punisher Mode will increase your ATB gauge much faster.
- Cloud's positioning is crucial, especially in boss battles. As a close-combat specialist, Cloud will take heavy damage in battle. Also, don't just spam the Square button against stronger enemies, as they may have time to launch a special attack during your combo animation.
You can unlock a teaser for Chapter 2 of the Final Fanatsy VII Remake by completing the playable demo and finding its secret ending.
