Square Enix Discusses the Tifa vs Aerith Debate in FF7R

The Waifu for Laifu

For years, Cloud’s romantic interest has been the subject of debate. Tifa or Aeirth? Who really held Cloud’s heart? Both are important to the story and to the development of Cloud’s character. Tifa is his childhood friend, who he swore to protect if she ever needed him. Aerith is the one who sees him for more than the SOLDIER and helps him in their common goal to defeat Sephiroth and save the planet. Unfortunately, only one of them, you know, lives, so the debate is put to an end prematurely. Still, fans are very passionate about this matter, and some are even convinced that Square Enix played favourites, but not this time around.

Tifa vs Aerith

Obviously, Square Enix is aware of this fan-driven rivalry between the two characters. Co-director Naoki Hamaguchi and producer Yoshinori Kitase explained how they tried to balance the interactions Cloud has with the two. “We have been very conscious about the player’s amount of time with Tifa and Aerith and keeping it equal. Additionally, we would make sure their representation in-game is balanced as well; for example, if there is a special event scene for Tifa, then we would prepare something similar for Aerith as well.

Players of the original game will recall “the date” at the Golden Saucer, where one of the characters can accompany Cloud on a ride through the casino-city. The default option is Aerith, but smaller choices made along the way can impact who it is. It doesn’t have to be Aerith or Tifa either. The date can also be with Barret or Yuffie, if she has joined the party, though these two are tougher to achieve. Perhaps a date mechanic will be included in the Remake or one of its subsequent chapters. Final Fantasy VII Remake is out on April 10th exclusively on PS4.

Tifa or Aeith? Let us know in the comments below.

Source: USG