Cloud Loves Aerith *TRIGGER WARNING!* Clerith-centric topic [FF7 REMAKE SPOILERS] 

Guys! Just found out that The Dream Sequence is Cloud's Resolution Scene and not Aerith's. Holy! There are only 3 Resolution Scenes and it is the resolve of the team to go after Aerith... all of them is canon as we all know already, so we have Barret's, Tifa's and Cloud's! So if you go the Aerith route you get Cloud's Resolution Scene! Clerith is CANON! twitter.com/pollenainne/status/1260879379694907399?s=20

Cloud's mom: "you need a girl to tell you when you're being a silly goose" Cloud during the resolution: "so what? you want to stay (at Shinra)?" Aerith: "cmon Cloud, dont be silly" me: HMMMMMMMMM

I just adore the part where he says “learn to talk to her” to the flowers. Cloud is so smitten by Aerith that he’s telling flowers to talk to Aerith to make her happy 😍

20:00 He could have said "That's where she is" but he says "That's where you are" as if he is already by her side. He just can't stop thinking about her. And he constantly says "I'm coming for you" instead of "we are" it's obviously very personal for him.

After playing the remake, I don't understand how anyone could NOT fall in love with Aerith.

I will never understand those who say that Cloud doesn't love Aerith?

when i started playing the remake (a week or so after release), i started with the expectations of becoming a tifa fan, like all of my other friends. they told me up and down that cloud and tifa were the endgame, even my own sister, who’s a ff fanatic. but, when aerith gave cloud that flower, and the little exchange between them, i silently whispered to myself: “...Fuck.” because i knew that i was going to fall for her, hard. the bubbly, sassy personality that bowed to no one, the mysteriousness behind her eyes, and the way she and cloud naturally connected just pulled me in. by the time she surprised cloud by wanting to spend more time with him, i hadn’t even realized i had committed myself to the clerith path. I found myself noticing that cloud acted different while aerith wasn’t with him. and by his resolution scene, i was convinced that hr was in love with her, and she was in love with him. And, even after doing some light research, cloud and aerith’s story is all over the original ff7, nothing like how i was told.

Everyone needs an aerith in their life. I had one once, she changed my life for the better. Best year I had in my life

I’ve always been a clerith fan since the OG. And now with the remake I’m even more convinced that Cloud and Aerith are soulmates. True funny story: My husband didn’t play the OG, I never really told him much about the story to not spoil him, he only knew minor stuff and that Cloud and Aerith were my OTP. So when he started playing I told him that technically you can “choose” between Aerith and Tifa, but imo Aerith was the only one for Cloud. But he was like no way, I’m choosing Tifa, she is hotter. I was like hmm ok well, play it and we’ll talk about it when you finish it. For the first chapters he was adamant. He said that he loved Tifa, that she was kind, badass, worries about Cloud, etc. And that he wasn’t going to change his mind. But then he met Aerith. By the end of the game he was like “okay, you were right, Cloud and Aerith all the way, it’s clear that Cloud loves her.” He also ended up having Cloud’s resolution scene with Aerith. :D

One nice attention to detail is how quick Cloud is able to tell Aerith no Tifa's not his girlfriend but when Tifa asks him about Aerith, he doesn't even deny anything going on between him and Aerith!

Y‘all need reasons to know Cloud loved Aerith ?

When Aerith says “You can’t fall in love with me” you can clearly see Cloud’s heart shatter. He tried to grab Aerith’s hand too. His voice just ever so slightly cracks when he says “Do I get a say in all this?” And of course, the resolute look in his eyes when he says “I’m coming for you” makes that scene even sweeter. The cherry on top? When he tells Elmyra how he can feel Aerith calling out to him. These two are so precious.

On the scene where Aerith tells him that his love for her is not real, you’d expect him to get a headache as he does whenever he encounters something that conflicts with his SOLDIER persona. But he doesn’t, meaning he said that completely from his own feelings. Also in the Japanese version, their chapter together is called the flowers of reunion or something which Aerith herself said was for lovers.

I love Aerith and Cloud, I always did, even way back in 97 when I was in school. Everyone seems to choose Tifa but for me it was instantly Aerith, there's a real energy between them. I love how she constantly has him off guard and, basically, makes him a better person because of it.

I get this best friend type vibe from Tifa and Cloud, but with Cloud and Aerith it’s romantic, it’s love. The chapters with just the 2 of them (8 & 9) seal the deal.

I think I know why Cloud is so drawn to Aerith. The girl has cheerful personality, flirtatious, and very perceptive. The all things that Cloud needs.

Cloud to Tifa & Co: I don't high-five, dance or talk to the planet. Aerith: I'm about to end this man's whole career.

Okay, so right before the fight with Eligor, in the train graveyard, Aerith has that flashback of herself as a child being abandoned during a game of hide and seek as symbolism of her fear of abandonment. Cloud says, "Oh, that's where you are" at 20:03. And then he goes and rescues her. Cloud seeks her out, he "finds" her. And then she runs out of the container and exclaims "You came for me!" She sounds both surprised and elated. This whole game is just Clerith. Change my mind.

Even in the original Aerith had the highest affection values toward Cloud when determining who you get to date in Gold Saucer so in my opinion they really were a good match. Cait Sith further confirms this during the events in the Temple of the Ancients when he tries to read their fortune together.

I love Aerith so much to the point where I'll shout whenever I see Cloud and Aerith together.. They look perfect for each other. One that is a silent type and one cheerful

Case of TIfa, ONWTS "Tifa: Cloud, do you love me? Cloud:...." FF7 remake "Aerith: Cloud, you can't fall in love with me. Cloud: Do I get a say in all this? "Im coming for you" It is obvious.

Also, Cloud just wouldn't shut up about his money when talking to Tifa and Barrett, then suddenly forgets he was a mercenary looking for a quick buck after spending a few hours with Aerith.

That little smirk when cloud sees her in the red dress...she's so flattered

Clerith: a breathe of fresh air. Cloti: rain and sadness. IDK but Clerith gives me the feeling of warmth.

So I studied Japanese and what I got from Cloud's words at the lab was that he said: I'm taking Aerith back. Makes it sound even more personal and aggressive considering from whom he is rescuing her. But either way it just shows how much Cloud cares for her

I love his little “learn to talk to her.” It’s a geeky side of Cloud that makes his desire to please and understand Aerith so much more unique.

Barret: *doubts* Tifa: *doubts* Cloud: *accepts* Cloud be like "You two just giving me doubts while doesn't have any solution to topside? Fine. I'm doing it alone!" When the most precious girl/human to the planet is in danger, you still have doubts in mind to save her?

Best 27 minutes I've spent in RU-vid. Claudia: "An older, more mature girl. That could keep you on the straight and narrow, and tells you when you're being a silly goose." Aerith fits the description to a tee. And in her resolution scene she calls him out for being silly. Cloud: "So what, you want to stay?" Aerith: " C'mon Cloud, don't be silly." Cloud and Tifa's interactions were always awkward for me. Most of their dialogues are about Avalanche or fighting Shinra. But Aerith and Cloud's dialogues are more heartfelt. And it only took Aerith one day to break Cloud's stoic wall. The chemistry is there for anyone to see. And the whole "Don't Fall in Love with Me" is a trope in media where it's guaranteed to happen regardless of the caution.

I read FF7R ultimania and they mentioned how cloud felt when he held tifa in the cut scene. So basically he wanted to act like a grown man like barret who held her naturally after the plate crushed down. it means no romantic way. I can see cloud cares about tifa a lot but as a childhood friend. as he's always been very conscious about saving and protecting people around him. They also mentioned cloud is trying to be cool in front of aerith in the book, haha. can see that he's reacting more emotional when he was with aerith too. I'm playing OG because I forgot so many details and I was surprised cloud literally laughing with her on the roof top just after he met aerith in the church. Thank you very much for sharing this video.

I love every single moment that Aerith and Cloud Share. You know, is funny went Tifa ask about Aerith he never answer. But went Aerith ask about Tifa, he tell her that is NOT his girlfriend. One more thing, went Cloud meet Aerith again he pretend that he not remember her. But he does. Because in the bar seven heaven you see the flower went you waiting for that meeting finish you can see the flower and he wonder about Aerith. So he remember Aerith. I see more thinks with videos and playing the game. Thanks for the video. Please do more videos. 🌸🎀☁️🌼🗡🌺

I think Tifa's resolution scene is so pro-clerith and people misjudge it just because we see them hugging close. Because Tifa is straight telling him that she realises it's because of his feelings for Aerith that Cloud is becoming another man and it makes her sad to think she's losing him too. Cloud still likes her but he's resolved that it's about Aerith from now on and so all he can do is hug her to comfort her. They have a good relationship after all but that's all that there is to is really, at least up until this point.

Honestly, I never quite understood this whole Clerith/Cloti war. The way I remember the OG, it's always been about Aerith - not only story wise, but also because Aerith was created first, and althought Cloud is the main character, she's the most important one. The game gives you the illusion you can choose (for replay value I'm guessing), but it's clear Aerith was always intended to be the one. The ending and AC made it pretty obvious. Plus, I always thought that Cloud and Tifa shared too much past trauma for a romantic relationship to work between them. Tifa is like the living embodiment of Cloud's past failures and insecurities, it's not really sane, while Aerith symbolizes the chance to a new beginning. Their relationship isn't heavy loaded with guilt nor pain. That doesn't mean Tifa isn't important to Cloud. And I actually like how the remake shapes their relationship, it's a lot warmer than in the OG. But Aerith just cracks him open like a nut, it's very heartwarming to watch. All their interactions feel natural and harmonious. So yeah, I really don't get where that Cloti thing comes from. Maybe because she's the one to survive ? So what, she wins by default ? Kinda sucks, if you ask me

Never a triangle for me he sees tifa as a sister and areith as his soulmate

I’m new to final fantasy.. literally never played a game watched the movie anything, I just happened to come across someone playing final fantasy 7 remake …. And my first impression of tifa and cloud was like she liked him but he saw her as like a sister, very least a friend. He hasn’t seen her in years and he was focused on the money, no physical touch outside of rescuing her and he NEVER smiled around her As soon as I saw him with Aerith, he smiled 2+ times, jaw dropped seeing her in the dress and if u guys noticed when it was him tifa and Aerith he always said “you okay?” Not are you guys okay At tifas apartment he has a nightmare at Aerith house he dreams about a girlfriend I dnt care how much a guy believes in a girls physical strength, if you see the girl you LOVE going into a dangerous place you would at the very LEAST follow her .. but no it took Aerith to convince him to go help Tifa….. I am team Aerith Someone made a great observation few weeks ago … everything up until Cloud’s resolution, he was following everyone and basically taking orders and following their path, he went on Jessie’s mission, Tifa persuaded him to do jobs in her sector, Aerith persuaded him to do jobs and be her bodyguard, following avalanche, even rescuIng tifa in Wall Market Aerith had to persuade and physically pull him…. But when Aerith gets captured he decided to decide his own path for the first time and we see that with how determined he is to save her that 1. He was ready to defy Aerith’s mum about saving Aerith and 2.he is even the leader of the save Aerith mission … there was so much resolve in his eyes when he told he he is coming for her

If her death is still going to happen, at least I want many more moments like this, to show that they love each other and that they are truly together in a future moment in the game...

another thing I noticed if you get the Cloud/Tifa cutscene is that after he gives in and embraces her, she says "Cloud, you're hurting me." I see that as foreshadowing in that any romantic relationship between the two is doomed to fail. Cloud can't give her what she wants. She will be always be second fiddle to Aerith and Cloud will just end up hurting her.

Tifas jealousy is just unbearable. Like she said: "How do you two know each other?" and "And there all that is to it? Sure there isn't something else going on?" She seems to me, that Tifa really Want Cloud and not love him in the real-love-kinda-way. You know what i mean? I mean, i don't understand the whole Tifa and Cloud thing. When i watch a Romance Movie for example, i can sense which couple are really resonating with each other. And while i watched the FF7 Remake Lets play, i really felt that deep connection somehow between Cloud and Aerith, (at least it builds up at that tiny little sparks they make without even thinking about it). I don't know, why the others see it the other way around. Cloud and Aerith seems to me: They are in love with each other. And the love is growing as the game goes on. I love your videos about that topic, because it really explains everything so well.

As obvious as I thought the signs were in the original game, so far, it's mind-boggling at this point to not think they had something between them -- this game is spelling it out even more.

It is nearly impossible to not fall for Aerith

I'm totally agree with "First mission he gave to himself!" is save Aerith. and also in my country there's so many people who still believe that cloud have Zack memories and don't accept his love to Aerith they still think it's because of Zack memory, I'm so sick to explain a thing.They just want to trust that....

this guy is clearly in love with this girl. No matter how hard he tried to hide it, all the actions he's done for her has proven his deep feeling towards her. No wonder he badly suffers after her death. poor cloud. Great compilation by the way, Good job dude

Tifa is always walking around cloud halfnaked.seeing her in that purple dress is nothing new to him.kekekeke

That scene "you cant fall in love with me" literally I just hear aerith screaming she doesnt wanna say it. But she says it not as oh I know your feelings aren't yours. They are clouds. Cloud is not zack and their personalities are no where near even close to each other(play crisis core), and also cloud doesnt have Zacks memories he just replaced zack fair soldier first class with himself, because he is ZACK'S LIVING LEGACY. Also cloud is kind of clucked up with his death so he forced zack out of his mind and literally became a living legacy. Anyways, aerith says that because she knows if she dies cloud will be hurt bad and probably would get even more f'd up but you can see it in her eyes she really fricking loves him and knows he's not going to listen, her smile literally says it all

The moments leading up to Evergreen Park is one of my faves. Right after Cloud wakes up from his dream about his mother, we get to see an up close view of his eyes reflected from the room's light, and I said "Damn Cloud, you have really beautiful eyes." Then Aerith also becomes enraptured by his eyes on the slide

Cloud never fall for tifa He sees tifa as childhood bestfriend Cloud almost do everything for aerith only, and their interactions all of you can see it the truth

There is no doubt, that Aerith is helping get Cloud out of his shell.

Is it just me or am I the only one who gets teary-eyed everytime these two grow closer together on screen? It like they have the most WHOLESOME chemistry together but it's so... sad... knowing she's going to die... Dammit, I'm tearing up even as I type this haha PS: That "I'm coming for you" scene just makes me bloody cry :(

You missed the fireworks at 10:05 that the developers letting you know thats the moment Cloud fell in love with Aerith.

this made me super happy, glad to know there's plenty of people who know the truth about all of this and aren't brainwashed. it's a great feeling, i can't wait of what's to come with the sequels, and they moment Cloud and Aerith re-unite or just get some sort of happy ending with eachother forever

Really great video. I wanna support the points you made. 1. I also think he accepted the deal. Aerith made it clear that payment for Cloud's services when he demands a lot for his services was a date. He even mentioned as you were crossing the rooftops that he's gonna be doing a little bit of bodyguard work, even if he knew there was no amount of money mentioned as payment, just the date. He never disagreed, and it wasn't all about the money for him. He even took on a job of monster hunting for 3 Gil! (Toad King job) 4. This one also happened in the original game (Storytelling in Kalm), so no room for doubt here. It's a dream, so the only thing that would've differed was that his uniform was different (You know.). His mother would've acknowledged him either way, and her preferred type of girlfriend for Cloud was the same. It can hardly be called a coincidence. 7. This one is also true. Remember when they were just heading for the Colosseum, Cloud was extremely confident. He already knew he shouldn't expect a fair fight, but he said he was definitely sure he would win it all. But when he realized Aerith wanted to be his teammate, he starts worrying. Her safety was top priority, even during the Hell House fight where he stopped her before the 2nd phase began. 8. This sealed the deal. It was also kinda sad that we didn't see any Avalanche member look for Cloud after he fell from the reactor. Just like when the gang initially kicked Cloud out of the 2nd bombing mission, Tifa chose to spend time with Avalanche instead of Cloud. After he fell, you would presume TIfa would look for him, but you see her going to Corneo's mansion instead. That kinda shows Tifa's priorities. [Not hating on Tifa, as years spent with Avalanche vs days spent with Cloud, it was easy to choose sides. Just my observation.] 10. Remember his words back at Seventh Heaven? "No contract, no obligations". Yet here he is, determined to bring her back, even if no money was to be rewarded to him. Though I'm pretty sure she would reward him anyways [ with more dates XD ]. 12. The main reason why she told him not to fall in love with her was to spare him from pain later on if ever anything happened. Do note that Aerith already received some sort of foreshadowing of the future events [ the original game], and we knew Cloud got really attached to her, more than just party members. You can actually see Cloud's feelings lightly slip, like in the bonire in Cosmo Canyon, where he assures Aerith she is not alone, for he is there for her. As a bonus to our ship, Here is a link of the Advent Children ending (not the Complete one). Thanks to Adlley Hattori for posting this. Enjoy ~~ May this bring you as much joy as it did to me when I found it. ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-PqJ8Y8Nd9KE.html Team Clerith here. Keep safe everyone, and see you in part 2 of the Remake!

When Cloud said "Learn to talk to her" I totally thought he was telling that to himself. Makes more sense that he was talking to the flowers haha

Cloud totally loves Aerith you can tell. His whole closed off personality shifts. He opens up because of her and it makes him come out of his shell. He shows a interest in mostly everything she says no matter how weird. He cares for Tifa like a sister kinda. I just don't feel or see the fire like there is with Aerith. He just puts forth that's above and beyond extra effort for her and is lazer focused on getting her back.

i just hope that Aerith dont die in this remake

Video tittle: Why Cloud Love Aerith? Me: Who wouldn't love Aerith?

Every time I hear the, "I'm readyyyy" lines from little Aerith and her excitement at the acknowledgment that her friends came for her shoots an arrow through my heart.

That first part about the bodyguard thing, i dunno if you know but if aerith is in your party and she falls unconscious cloud’d say “and you call yourself a bodyguard”

With this game out and this video. I am so happy that now this misconception of Cloud having Zack's memories argument is over. The exact perspective shown in this video is 100% accurate to mine as well. SPOILER Aerith knows the fate of everyone. She knows she will be taken away by Sephiroth (badass mofo but fxck him for doing that shet) and wants Cloud to make sure he doesn't get too attached to her... unfortunately... Cloud wants to be attached to her.

I read this in the internet and want to share it here :) Cloud and Aerith are the main hero and heroine of the video game Final Fantasy VII. At the opening of the game, Cloud is a cold-hearted mercenary who only accepts missions to help save the planet from the group AVALANCHE for money. This coldness towards all the members of AVALANCHE is not part of his false memories borrowed from Zack but is part of the real Cloud[1]. During one mission, he falls into Aerith's church in the slums and the two strike up a conversation. Aerith is a Cetra/Ancient, the last in a race of planet protectors and had been pursued by megacorporation ShinRA her entire youth. When they appear at the church to try to capture her again, Aerith recruits Cloud to help her escape. Instead of the usual gil, Cloud accepts Aerith's offer of the payment of one date for his help and forms an agreement to be her bodyguard. After meeting Aerith, Cloud's cold outlook begins to change[2]. He escorts her home and consistently expresses concern for keeping her out of dangerous situations such as going into the Wall Street market. The player can also choose to tell Aerith that Tifa is not Cloud's girlfriend and opt to take her along to Sector 7. Cloud and Aerith have a first date in the park[3], where they talk about Cloud's SOLDIER status and Aerith's first love, who was also in SOLDIER. Cloud remarks that he might have known him and asks Aerith his name, but Aerith responds that it doesn't matter as she was never in a serious relationship with him.[4] During the scene where they escape the church, Cloud and Aerith laugh together. This is the only time Cloud laughs in the game[5] Cloud and Aerith become close quickly[6]. When Aerith is agrees to go with ShinRA so that Barret's daughter Marlene can escape, Cloud decides to rescue her with or without the assistance of AVALANCHE. When talking to Marlene about Aerith before leaving on the rescue mission, Marlene has already noticed Aerith's attraction to Cloud. When she says to Cloud that she thinks Aerith likes him, Cloud can say 'Let's hope so'. Supplementary materials have shown this is the response canon to the storyline[7]. No matter what route the player takes into the building, Barret is impressed that Cloud will fight for someone else and Tifa becomes jealous. The rescue attempt results in Cloud and the others getting captured. When the group are in cells next to Aerith's, the player can talk to Aerith. Cloud reminds Aerith about his promise to protect her as her bodyguard, which causes Tifa to become jealous again. After escaping from ShinRA and discovering Sephiroth is still alive, the group all leave Midgar to begin the quest.

TLDR: I wish for a happy ending for this couple. Haha. After re watching Cloud's dream with his mother, I am inclined to believe that, even if Claudia has not met Aerith yet, she would've preferred any good girl for Cloud, as long as it was not Tifa. Claudia: "I've never been so proud. The man you've become...women must be hounding you day and night! You know, there's all kinds of temptation in the big city. I'd feel a lot better if I knew you found a good girl...one who made sure you didn't get into trouble. An older, more mature girl, that could keep you on the straight and narrow, and tell you when you're being a silly goose. That's the perfect type for you, I'd say." "I'd feel a lot better if I knew you found a good girl..." This line, if she preferred TIfa, she could've easily added "like TIfa." and that would've been it. But no, she elaborated her preferences further and heavily implying it was never Tifa. I mean, saying she prefers an older girl already crosses out TIfa 101%, so there should really be no debate or doubt here. "...one who made sure you didn't get into trouble" Recalling Cloud's childhood where he got in trouble because he tried to help Tifa but both ended up falling and Cloud got blamed for the incident..her mother probably was the only one who still understood Cloud and never blamed him for any of it. Her tone suggested that Tifa got Cloud into trouble, and it wasn't really Cloud's fault. When he visited his mom during his mission in Nibelheim, even with Cloud admitting not being a SOLDIER still, she was still very proud of him. Note also that Tifa never knew until the Lifestream Event that Cloud was there at Nibelheim too. Cloud probably told his mom not to tell anyone he was there, and she never even told TIfa, even though Tifa was really wishing to see Cloud. I'm guessing during Cloud's time in Shinra away from Nibelheim, there wasn't enough interaction between Tifa and Claudia for her to give favor to Tifa. It took 7 days of waiting befire Sephiroth went mad, and in all those times, her mom kept her word and didn't tell or hint TIfa. Well, with Tifa's personality, she probably didn't open up and dreaming of a blond knight in shining armor (literally Cloud) to Claudia. In that note, all her preferences were basically pointed anywhere BUT Tifa, and Aerith was literally fitting the bill perfectly. Makes good sense that the two girls are really different in personality., with Aerith being truly her preferred type for Cloud. (well, I mean, Madame M being older, made Cloud fall into Cloud 9 with a hand massage, but that's besides the point XD ) Well, as we all know, it really all comes down to who Cloud wants. But the fact that he dreams of this after meeting Aerith, he probably misses his mom and sublty tells her in his dreams that he found the one. In the original game, he said "Not interested", but here we just see him fall silent and wake up. If Square Enix ever made impossible wish lists come true... 1. Cloud brings Aerith to his home and introduce her to his mom [and Cloud also proves himself to Elmyra, not only as an ex-SOLDIER, but a local florist] 2. Strife Flower Delivery Service all the way! Cloud would probably be grunting "I'm not cut out for this crap" but would be loving every moment of it. Just my thoughts..sorry for the long comment. I was probably reading into it too much. I just really love this ship. I mean, I joined this ship to cherish Clerith, not disregard Zerith and Clotis...as long as they don't throw fallacies like the "CLOSE childhood friend" and the "Cloud is Zack" kinda stuff. Haha.. Still waiting patiently for part 4! XD Keep up the good work!

Idk about you guys but Cloud caring how he would respond to Aerith and how he analyzes her expressions is definitely something.

Indeed, Cloud does not inherit Zack's memories, he never know about Aerith in first place. He just regained conscious from mako poison and mistaken his impression of Zack into his identity.

The resolution scene gets me every time. Dont get me wrong, i legit adore Tifa cause she's a total badass and an amazing character but her resolution doesnt add up to the next scene with Elmyra. Cloud straight up says ""she's calling to me" right after hugging Tifa? Does that make sense in any way possible? While the resolution with Aerith shows more feeling in it considering its Cloud who's dreaming about it and would totally fit the next scene. Idk maybe its just me who thought about this

Here's the thing about this: It's not exactly obvious (which is why there can be debate at all some 20 years later), but Cloud's relationship with Aerith is a central driving narrative in the story, and his relationship with Tifa serves more as helping him recover who he is/was in the wake of losing her. Tifa is integral in Cloud's conscience and his drive, but even years later (Advent Children) he hasnt' let go, or truly let her in. It's strongly suggested (perhaps even stated outright) that Cloud liked Tifa when they were kids, but a true romance never blossomed. Maybe Cloud was at least a little infatuated with her before, but Cloud seemed to really, really care for Aerith. Let's not forget; in the PS1's original dialogue files, Aerith's entries were always above Tifa's at player-choice instances, Aerith starts out with the most "dating points" (invisible number value that calculates who Cloud will see in the Gold Saucer), and in the final cutscene, Cloud says "I think I can meet her there," to Tifa. Let's also not forget that the developers had Aerith die for the point of artistic expression, as one of the lead developers had recently lost someone dear. There are the narrative reasons for the Ancient to be the one to die (summon Holy, invoke Lifestream, etc.), but it speaks so much louder when that person was Cloud's most important person. (Side note: Cait Sith's fortune to Cloud before insisting on joining the party is, in Japanese, "you will lose the most precious thing" as opposed to "you will lose something dear" in English) So one might ask why player choice was ever involved to begin with if there was a "right" answer? I believe it was to give more opportunities to flesh out the characters, and in the earlier days of gaming, provide a reason to replay a deep and vast JRPG (these games weren't as prominent in the west back then). Aerith and Tifa's scenes were sort of given to the player as a reward for their investment in one person or the other, Yuffie's for not, and Barret's to berate the player for keeping their heart closed to everyone. I think it was genius, and truth be told, I've always loved Cloud and Tifa's relationship-indeed preferred it. But that doesn't stop Aerith from being the right answer. Take player choice out of the equation, and the story goes Cloud and Aerith. It's a done deal, my friends. So instead of having this debate, let's just accept that Cloud loved Aerith (or at least experienced something closer to love with her than with Tifa), and hope that Cloud can find true companionship with Tifa someday-whatever that may mean.

If anyone is triggered by a ship, they need to learn to grow up. Getting angry because someone else doesn't feel that the same two fictional characters you've pictured together should be together is straight up pathetic.

Clerith's names are symbolically linked, some can even say heavenly. Aerith = Air Cloud = Clouds

Never paid that much attention to Tifa resolution but she does look sad for the flower thing, she legit thought Cloud brought that flower to her and by the way he gave it to her it seemed that way. In this scene she realized she was right when she suspected Aerith and Cloud having something more than friendship going on.

My boyfriend plays the Remake right now. I asked him, what he thinks about the Aerith/Cloud/Tifa love triangle as someone who didn't play the OG and can judge about all this from a male POV. His response was the following: "Tifa is friendzoned. Cloud likes Tifa, but in a way a guy would care for a friend. " Me: "What about the hugging, etc..?" - "Hormones. He still loves Aerith though."

Number 9 remembers me about the scene where Barret asked him to dance with Tifa being there and he said he doesn't dance. But then this happened. I think Cloud makes a lot of exception for aerith. He definitely got out of his comfort zone without much resistance for her. But its just mho

For those who still think Aerith can’t move on from Zack in this Remake, I personally see the last line in resolution scene with Aerith got localized pretty poorly because it left out subtle meaning from the original. And with the line telling Cloud not to fall for her, it can easily mislead people to believe that she still misses Zack. In English she just plainly thanks Cloud for willingly coming to get her. In Japanese dialogue she says “kuyashii kedo ureshii” which literally means “it’s frustrating (that you’re so stubborn after I warn you not to fall for me and still insist on coming to save me), but that truly makes me happy anyway”.

The abruptness of that ending made me laugh "You came for me!" "yup" *credits*

Knowing Cloud, body language is very very important cause he couldn't express himself well, even Aerith is aware of it :3

I am so grateful that you've taken it upon your shoulders help set it all straight with regards to Clerith and Cloti. For me it has always been super obvious whom his love is, across all media he and Aerith appear in, and across all books and more. They are always connected.

I was cloti fan before. And i've always debated my theory with clerith. i was always thought cloti is canon since i finished OG when i was young and watched ACC+ played CC I've always think tifa is the best! Tifa is cloud's childhood friend,Tifa is cloud first crush, Tifa is always supported cloud, Tifa is who fixed cloud memories and got real cloud back, Tifa has romantic scene with cloud before the last fight with sephiroth. Aerith just loved cloud becuase of zack personality in him and blablablah about this ship But when i older and played Doc and FF7R and re-played OG manytimes. I tried to open up my mind and research about ff7 info more and more and analyzed more. So I realized that cloud is love aerith and aerith is love the real cloud for sure. As i tried to imagine that i'm cloud lol read all dialogue clearly, novel, ultimania book bc i want to know the true story to prove that my theory is right. I don't want to close my mind and shipped cloti like a blind fanboy. And It was hurt when i see the truth, tifa is still my fav char forever but i can say cloud is truthly love aerith and care tifa like friendzone. because after defeated sephitorth cloud still hope and want to go to promise land to see aerith even his mamories and his personal back already. Even he infacted in AC he still back and stay in aerith church.And the ending song of FF7R as cloud POV the lyric of this song is for aerith for sure. I can't find any feeling about tifa in this song, his body language and eyes contacted with aerith in ff7r and etc ( so many to write it lol) Tbh,In this remake i played all scene and played over 4 times why i can't feel romantic between cloud and tifa even they hugged scene. Why i felt its like cloud just care about her bc she is his childhood nothing more as i seen dialogue and body language.... But aerith and cloud scene is such a romantic, adorable, warmheart. And aerith loved cloud, the real cloud not zack's imprinted for sure i can say that as i played all of ff7 series except BC Even i realized that im still love tifa.All of my past about cloti is like i wasn't accpet the truth story. Didn't open up my mind like hater. Just want my fav char is the best with her love. How silly and selfish i am lol I Just want to tell my opinion as who was cloti fan and respect for all shipped. Cloud is love aerith and tifa is like old childhood friend....poor tifa...😭 I hope in this remake will have many ending where tifa will be with cloud as a lover. Anyway, this vid is great job. You understand what is the story telling. But it can't change my mind to become clerith fan😆 tifa is still my love even she not be with cloud lol Ps. Im sorry If i typed something weird. Bc english is not my main language.😅

*This pretty much sums it up:* Note: These are taken from the OG, spin offs, AC, interviews and FF7 Reading materials from square themselves. So it's all facts. -Aerith brings the real Cloud to the surface when he has a memory of his mother telling him to have an “older girlfriend.” -Aerith melts Cloud’s “frosty exterior” & helps Tifa and him “rediscover his past.” -Real Cloud states he remembers Aerith “a lot.” -Real Cloud wants to meet Aerith in the Promised Land, something Cloud also desires in Final Fantasy Tactics and other countless cameos/spinoffs. -Real Cloud’s heart breaks at Aerith’s grave (Tifa gets jealous). -Zack isn’t in the officially described love triangle. Therefore, Cloud feeling bad about Zack’s death isn’t the same as Cloud feeling bad about Aerith’s death. -Real Cloud is shown seeking Aerith in numerous cameos. - *Aerith states on her Gold Saucer date with Cloud that she initially liked Cloud because of Zack, but has now grown to like Cloud for Cloud.* - *Aerith said her and Zack were never serious, that he was a “real lady’s man,” and that she wants to move forward with her life.* - *Aerith rejects Zack in the lifestream, stating she will only call him if she gets “really lonely.”* -Aerith states she prefers Cloud’s personality over Zack’s. -Cloud never transformed 100% into Zack, he never got his memory or feelings just his persona of soldier. - *Aerith moved on, so should you* - *in DoC, Aerith is stated to be engraved in Cloud's heart for the rest of his life.* -Terra in WoFF states Aerith is the woman Cloud loves. -Cloud is stated to be Aerith’s “lover.” Why would SE make Aerith out to be a liar? -Tifa is forever listed as Cloud’s “childhood friend.” She is never upgraded to “wife” or “girlfriend.” -The Highwind scene has 2 versions. Variable evidence is inherently weaker evidence. -The Cloud and Aerith Gold Saucer date is stated to be the “normally occurring” date. Nowhere is it stated which Highwind scene is the “normally occurring” version. -Aerith automatically starts off with more love points than Tifa. If you make anti-Tifa choices, Aerith forever remains in 1st place. -Tifa says her and Cloud aren’t a “real” family. -Marlene and Nojima say Cloud and Tifa don’t work out. -Tifa admits to not knowing if Cloud loves her. -Cloud believes Aerith brought him Denzel. -Barret returns to living with the Seventh Heaven “family of friends.” -Cloud and Tifa have no romantic moments post-AC/C. -Cloud rides his motorcycle through flower fields stated to represent Aerith at the end of AC/C. -Aerith was created before Tifa. - *Cloud and Aerith are the original couple.* - Cloud and Aerith are the face of FF7 -Crisis Core is a retcon. (*) -Cloud was designed by Sqaresoft to fall in love with Aerith so her death would be that much more painful. -Cloud and Aerith are described as a classic star-crossed love story. -Nomura described their love story as a "Love that can't ever be" which he stated it means Lovers seperated from life and death. -Cloud reunited with Aerith in the promised land in the ending of FF7 Event in FF Mobius. Nojima also hinted Cloud to be reunited with Aerith in the original post credit scene of AC. -"Drowned by fireworks" (The OST during Clouds and Aerith's date) is described as a romantic moment between the main hero and heroine stated by Nobuo Uematsu himself. -Final fantasy Spinoff "Itadaki Street" referenced Aerith's feelings towards Cloud multiple times and even her being jealous. One event included them actually married. - *Clerith, Noctluna, Snow/Serah, Lenne/Shuyin, were all described/stated as 「恋人(Lovers)* in multiple FF writings. - FF Record Keeper features the scene Cloud and Aerith confronting Cait Sith in Golden Saucer insinuating the canon date scene is Aerith. - *Cloud: "Meeting her again, that's my dream"* - Nomura: "FF7 is seperate from Kingdom hearts, but if you play KH until the end, some of the questions about Cloud and Aerith relationship might be answered" In Kh2 Credit scene, Cloud and Aerith is seen reuniting alongside other Disney couples. *Nomura is making a statement.* - Aerith theme is played during Record Keeper's Valentine's day medley alongside Eyes on me and etc. - FF Couples from (VII,VIII,IX,X,XII) are displayed while Nobuo Uematsu discussed the final fantasy main theme. Aerith is shown as FF7's - *Cloud's crush on Tifa is described as Ephemeral (lasting for a very short time) from the Ultimania* - *In the JP version of Cloud's resolution, Cloud said "Mukae ni iku" which literally means picking someone up/taking them somewhere in a romantic context.* - "Episode Tifa” [Case of Tifa] - *first off, there’s the premise that things won’t go well between Tifa and Cloud, and that even without geostigma or Sephiroth this might be the same.“~Nojima; On the Way to a Smile interview; Square Enix* *Nojima being savage against Cloud and Tifa* And many more.... Does that cover it? Haven't included much from the Remake. I found an artwork which really explains it well twitter.com/_nohmask_/status/1270022222153781250?s=19 And twitter.com/NohM94/status/1289584090958589952?s=19 Found most of this on Tumblr.

I wrote the following on the Cloud's dream/resolution scene in another video, so I'll share it here with some additional comments: I think that scene virtually confirms that Cloud has fallen in love with Aerith. Zack can't be brought into this equation because he is neither shown or mentioned, not even implied. This is purely an Aerith and Cloud connection materialized in Cloud's dream or his subconscious. Based on the dialogue, developers created this scene to show obvious romantic undertones within their relationship, making it more clear than the original. The "but whatever happens, you can't fall in love with me" is a common phrase found in romantic tropes, especially used by one character to dissuade another character for developing romantic feelings towards the former; and of course, we as the audience know that said character does the exact opposite. It is already too late for Cloud. I think devs are trying to flesh out the story a lot more with the goal to make Aerith’s death more impactful for Cloud. Losing someone close to you, especially one you love or cherish, is the most painful kind of loss. At this point, it’s implied he has become attached to her. Of course, she meant something to him, which is why he was left so broken when she was gone. People keep bringing in Zack as an influence on his feelings for Aerith, but I don’t think it’s Zack’s memories or personality that’s influencing Cloud - it seems they’re his own true feelings, which was why he was so flustered and asked if he had any say in this. Again, Zack isn't mentioned, shown, or implied anywhere. I think Cloud didn't understand his feelings for her then until she pointed it out and turned him down. It's like she was unraveling parts of him he didn't know he had, and because this scene was in his dream, it can be implied that it's his subconsciousness that's warning him against these feelings considering the fact that he's seen glimpses of her future (her death). Also, he didn’t deny his feelings, and even tried to catch her arm when she removed her hand from his face. Again, these actions fall under romantic undertones; it's as if to show he was trying to hold onto her, even though she let go of him first. I am certain Aerith already knew what would happen to her, so she is trying to protect his heart and spare him the pain of losing her. She too has probably come to terms about her feelings for Cloud, and that is that she fell for him too. Considering how she's portrayed, that seems to be very logical for Aerith to do. Throughout the game, Cloud and Aerith's scenes have romantic undertones, which is why she is a contender for his heart within the story. Of course, the player is given choices to see how Cloud's relationship is developed between his two romantic interests, but it's undeniable that Cloud has strong feelings for Aerith no matter the choice the player makes. Imagine what could have happened if she didn’t die, and how much their relationship would’ve developed because she was already breaking through his walls, changing him, allowing him to become more empathetic towards others. This is why losing her hurt him so much because she had so much impact on him. Aerith is a literal angel and we must protect her at all cost. 😭

This game is something else. Ive never experienced these kind of emotions with any other game ever. The remake is so well done, better than I could have imagined.

Thanks for making this video and im so love it~~~ Im really love Aerith since OG. But I heard that a lot of people said that Tifa is Cloud's couple from last time and I couldn't found anyone who support Clerith at that time. I feel so sad and disappointed, I can only just bear im mind that Cloud is love Aerith. When I watching this video, my tears keep flowing out from my eyes. Its been so many years, I thought I was alone, but now Im so happy that lm not the only one to think Cloud is love Aerith. Than you so much, your analyst of Cloud's feeling was damn good 😍👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻

When they say "so..." in the park at the same time IT KILLS ME THEY'RE SO CUTE 😭

There is never a dull moment with Cloud and Aerith! I really hope there is more interaction time between the two, it puts me at ease. Lol

Cloud and Aerith for this remake

Thanks for your vid, it's beautiful as always. I love this couple so much. Cloud's body language clearly tell about what feeling he has for Aerith. For Tifa, I see nothing but friendship.

If I were Zack I would be so happy that the 2 closest persons to me fell in love

i love this video it literally DESERVES more views,, claerith is canon don’t try hitting me w/ that “iTs ZaCk-“

As someone who never played the OG (and never knew the war ship until then), I could say from this remake that Cloud's cared for Aerith so much. Not because we, the player, chose it, but that's how the story goes. As for Tifa, she's like his bestfriend, a person he trusted to fight side by side. Yes Cloud cared for her too, but not in the same way as Aerith. Tifa clearly loves Cloud (it's kinda sad) but even Tifa could see how things going between Cloud and Aerith. She showed her jeaolusy several times

I’ve never played the original, but as far as I can tell so far with the Remake Cloud only has feelings for Aerith. Cloud and Tifa have this weird Brother/sister vibe

Fantastic compilation. The Remake clearly emphasises their romantic development even more than the original. And Aerith's Dream Scene explanation by Nojima is also an indirect official confirmation that Cloud loved her in the OG FFVII. I like how you included the little detail where Cloud's posture changes during their conversation in the playground. Character's body language in this game is incredibly well done and tells it's own story about their affection.

I hope Cloud and Aerith meet each other this time.

Cloud is inlove with aerith.. clearly

Tifa is an amazing person and I will fight anyone that badmouth her for Cloti ship, but Aerith is the one Cloud needs. She is able to make Cloud's wall crumble and make him smile multiple times, thus making him more open and caring. I believe Cloud personal growth throughout the story both in OG and remake is heavily influenced of Aerith and that is enough proof that Cloud does love her and it's not just his SOLDIER persona.

/english is not my main language sorry if i said sth wrong/ Ive seen many Cloti fans came here to correct that we were wrong or something. Can we just respect personal preferences? I’m clerith shipper but doesnt mean i hate tifa or zack. Everyone have their own preferences, SO PLS CLOTI FANS YOU DONT HAVE TO CORRECT ANYTHING EVEN IF THE DEVELOPERS WILL MAKE CLOUD AND TIFA END UP TOGETHER, IM SURE WE ARE GONNA STILL LOVE CLERITH. their chemistry is everything :3

Lol glad someone caught on to the colosseum elevator part, gives me some confirmation.

Oh my... My thumb got tired of giving likes to the comments. #Clerithforever

I always ship Cloud and Aerith. Tifa is a good girl, she maybe a good wife, but I feel they don’t have the chemistry together just like old friends or maybe old couples? I feel Cloud is not happy to be with Tifa. On the contrary, Aerith always have ways to make Cloud to be better himself.

I love how you pick up on so much small details that I never did. For example, the Cloud's iconic cover pic! I was like "oh that's the pic from the beginning!' But never thought about how now, it's about rescuing aerith.

The real fan of this series will know that cloud loves aerith

I really want Aerith to be saved and have a romance with Cloud 🥺

I believe a BIG reason why Cloud prefers Aerith is because he knows she needs him sometimes. He wants to feel needed, whereas with Tifa I think he knows she can handle herself and I don't think he sees much room to fulfill that promise they made as children, but with Aerith ? I think he definitely feels he can be her Hero; he worries about her, protects her, tries not to put her in harms way. At the same time, he KNOWS how capable she is, but he knows there is room for him to protect her. He feels wanted and needed with Aerith; they balance each other so well !! :)

I used to prefer tifa but goddamn aerith has grown on me immensely in the remake (and for the people who think she "belongs" to zack: knowing him, he'll probably be a clerith shipper if he does come back alive lol)

Even in Advent Children, Aerith is long gone but there still aren't any scenes between Cloud and Tifa that show a romantic/affectionate relationship. She is always referred to as Cloud's childhood friend.

FOR THE LOVE OF GOD CONTINUE TO MAKE THESE VIDEOS, because I am sending everyone to my friends and we are creating theories about