Final Fantasy 7's BEST Cloud Design?

[@ArtistMarkFlynn]

Hi all! Hope you enjoyed the video, please give it a like and comment if you enjoyed! Currently running a poll over on twitter to decide the next episode. It's currently neck and neck between Goku, Eggman and Kirby! Head on over and have your say! twitter.com/artistmarkflynn/status/1154882869044682752?s=19

[@gabrielneri2820]

I would love a video on Crash Bandicoot designs ...trust me, there is A LOT to talk about all of the crash designs

[@ArtistMarkFlynn]

@@gabrielneri2820 Gonna put him in the next poll for sure!

[@shadowstephen8296]

The Artist Mark Flynn Yeah. Afterwards his calfs are going to be so big. Now imagine seeing those thighs in the girl disguise

[@breloopharos1919]

"lets just hope this game isnt garbage" This made me realize how dissapointing but understandable game design has been for like the past decade give or take but i digress super interesting video, you gained a sub

[@C_The_Guy]

The Artist Mark Flynn speaking of FF can we talk about the best Yuffie design tho

[@Butterfly1025A]

Yo, about Advent Children: I rewatched that movie recently on a whim and it‘s way better than I remembered it being. I was too immature when I first saw it to actually appreciate it for what it was, and what it was is a damn good Cloud Strife character study. The ongoing plot is garbage, but it’s mindlessly fun garbage that’s really intended to tell the story of how this sad dude has given up on his own life. Every time a scene centered around Cloud, I found myself fascinated by his reactions to every situation; there’s so much depth to his character and the writers weren’t scared to dive deep. When I first saw Advent Children, I thought PTSD was being scared of slamming doors and I’d never even heard of survivor’s guilt. I’m older now. The people I know trust me with their broken pieces, and now I can understand why Cloud (who I first thought was a whiny emo coward) is actually a pretty sympathetic dude. I used to be exasperated by his kids; now I’m grown, and suddenly Cloud restructuring his entire life to take care of a devastated orphan is a decision with repercussions and costs that I can see and understand. So many of Cloud’s choices are intimately and hauntingly familiar. Doing your best to keep moving forward, but drowning in bad old memories anyway? Building a new life, but still holding tight to old habits that hurt you now but used to keep you alive? Working to build yourself a future, but dropping it all to care for a loved one who’s definitely going to die? Seeing and hearing your friends reach out to you, but holding yourself apart anyway because loving them scares you? Wanting to be a part of your family, but _knowing_ that you don’t deserve them and that they’d be better off without you? Fuck. The circumstances are different, but I know so many people who’ve forgotten their way home. Advent Children used dumb fantasy bullshit to tell a story that resonates to this day. Kudos, ladies and gentlemen, to the crew who made it; hats off to you. PS: that animation was insanely good for 2003! I definitely prefer the re-released version with the graphics fixes, but that original quality still holds up today.

[@FiggyFiggleton]

I totally agree. After reading the mini novels that took place between FFVII and Advent Children, I had a much greater appreciation for his portrayal in the movie.

[@Duenas411]

Couldnt have said this better myself.

[@fissilewhistle]

I think the story is too badly told for Advent Children to really be a good movie, but it’s most certainly an enjoyable one.

[@Fyrebirdi]

Having recently finished a binge watch of Crisis Core, FF7R & AC I really believe he is one of the most complex gaming characters. I think a lot of his mental & emotional issues are a bit lost on younger players who lack the life experience to empathise with his trauma. I found AC absolutely heart-breaking to watch (especially when I found out what he was doing at the pond in the woods). I agree the writers & character developers weren't scared to dive deep and add that I feel they must have had a psychologist advising them on key emotional nuances to a character struggling with PTSD and identity disorders. I feel its nearly impossible not to feel a sympathy and connection with such a believable imaginary person... which is a bit weird I suppose, but as you say, his choices are familiar :)

[@danbakitus9380]

I certainly agree. The rest of the movie was kinda... Off? But Cloud and his psychology was great. My one gripe is how did he get to that place if he had opened up more than ever before after Aeriths death in the game? He certainly didn't seem to have survivors guilt then. Even if I'm glad it got thrown in, it none the less felt thrown in

[@KumiesCummies]

I wish his Kingdom Hearts outfit was in Smash. That’s my personal favorite Cloud design.

[@ArtistMarkFlynn]

Have had a lot of people saying that!

[@gregwilliams4926]

It wouldn't fit for the character since it's an alternate version of him like Nomura said. Same look and design, but isn't the same character from FF7, like Squall looking much older in KH than in FF8. That's like giving Joker a Sonic costume because he's owned by Sega.

[@levarhiggins6082]

Kumie indeed! That scarf and the claw is just bad assery!!!!

[@AdriAhmad]

You can get it in Dissidia but through DLC. Haha

[@niclasneziru1854]

@@gregwilliams4926 That example you gave is very dumb tbh, there is no correlation between Sonic The Hedgehog and Persona 5 but there is a strong connection between KH Cloud and the Final Fantasy series, the whole Kingdom Hearts franchise is an offshoot of Final Fantasy for christ's sake. Sonic never appears in Persona 5 nor vice versa but Cloud does appear in Kingdom Hearts 1 & 2

[@PEDRObv15]

I think Cloud looks leaner in the remake than he does in Advent Children, he just has more muscle definition. Maybe he’s dehydrated lol

[@caffeinated.communication]

I think it's fitting he has a somewhat sickly look in the first part. !!!!! SPOILERS BELOW~~ Considering he spent 5 years as a test subject and was essentially in a coma.

[@TheRetroPerspective]

I need to be able to see the individual threads of fiber in his SOLDIER uniform as it clips through the scenery and boss apendages just like in FFXV.

[@Syntherus]

The Advent Children design is still King in my mind.

[@emhapz]

Same here. That Cloud and the voice actor, Steve Burton, is unbeatable.

[@SobrietyandSolace]

@@emhapz I melt every time I see that face and hear that voice, god damn.

[@lilerkal2583]

As long as someone can tell that it is Cloud then the design did its job right.

[@willpoweramv]

It's usually the big sword that gives it away

[@isaacmettle]

license_to_meme AND THE SPIKE BLONDE HAIR. TONED BODY!!

[@KirbyGotenksabsorbed]

Seems like a pretty low bar to set for what constitutes a good design.

[@janinegraser1156]

I mean you could like put that hair on a potato and it would be recognizable

[@danbakitus9380]

So what you're saying is you're cool with world of Final Fantasy Cloud being in remake?

[@Razor-Blade]

I hope in the remake cloud has the same personality he had in the original, I dont really like emo cloud

[@ArtistMarkFlynn]

From what we've seen so far... I think he will

[@Razor-Blade]

@@ArtistMarkFlynn let's hope

[@Killer_Kool7]

Cloud was never emo though. Just a soldier with PTSD

[@alanfavoretto6761]

@@Killer_Kool7 Anything after FFVII he was though His depictions in media outside of FFVII by SE has been very out of character. The Remake's cocky depiction brings back to the old days, and it is a sight of relief and a breath of fresh air.

[@Killer_Kool7]

@@alanfavoretto6761 try going through the stuff he went through. Can you blame him for being depressed? He couldn't be depressed in ff7 because he had a villian to kill. In Advent Children he thinks it's over. And he has a deadly disease. So he's depressed for a reason. He's not emo

[@RyuseiiTheCrimsonKing]

FF7 Cloud sticks with me due to his confident pose and just how serious he looks without being edgy or emo looking like future designs. Like Dissidia Cloud's art looks so depressed and mopey, he's not cool.

[@jamesbrooks9321]

I don't think a video game character has ever been as posed as well as Cloud was in the original artwork, that's a work of art

[@calebhickman4365]

Emo cloud is cool af

[@TheUruse]

How do you feel if you save the world and then it turned out by saving the world you doom the world itself by giving it a uncurable disease? I like post 7 (Compilation), because it's not based on 90's anime hair. KH1 design is okay but not realistic.

[@lioncross1849]

I stick with the original buster sword design too. It’s not an elegant weapon with gold embellishments etc

[@pikaboom6539]

Ryuseii such a generic and tired critique. Also “not cool”

[@magnumopus8124]

Lol wow "rip Zack, I'm gonna smash aerith!" 🤣

[@ArtistMarkFlynn]

Hoes b4 bros

[@rich1051414]

"I'm going to be role playing as you, but she will be screaming MY name."

[@yujiakweh]

@@rich1051414 cursed comment...

[@SigmaHayate]

A sexual fantasy with a fantasy character

[@hamizanyunos1502]

@@ArtistMarkFlynn I always thought Zack should be more brawny or muscular than Cloud because he actually was very physically fit to become a SOLDIER into First Class ranking. I always like Cloud to be more athletic and lean not overtly muscular akin to Spiderman not Superman. So the Remake version of Cloud in my opinion is most realistic and best one to me, he is not very scrawny but not overly muscular either. He is simply athletic and lean.

[@jerryb4705]

STOP CALLING HIM BLOCKY! That's All Muscles Br0!....

[@ArtistMarkFlynn]

Blocky ie cultivating mass bro

[@jasonborne238]

I would just like to point out how cloud in the original FFVII looks almost identical to super Saiyan teen Gohan

[@ArtistMarkFlynn]

Completely agree, was actually going to put a screen shot of him in when I said the Super Saiyan line but forgot to lol

[@logan6034]

K

[@jasonborne238]

@@logan6034 ?

[@finnianheart]

"he was thinner than we thought" he got twinked lmao

[@Yararar]

Looks more appealing to women

[@Emil-lf3no]

Wasnt Cloud always skinny. I am used to Advent Children Cloud cuz I didn't have any game in which he was featured, when everyone said FF7 Remake's Cloud looks too feminine I was confused cuz he ain't looking much different from AC and when I saw the original art I was like "wtf he be looking like a emo femboy twink" so in my eyes Cloud became more masculine with time.

[@safaa9654]

the Remake has the best design possible. Seriously, they outdid themselves and he just couldn't look better

[@krxxc.kk6]

I've always like the OG design for some reason.

[@ArtistMarkFlynn]

It's pretty great tbh. Iconic.

[@QuestVHS]

I personally really like the original design. There's a charm to it.

[@LightningHornUnicorn]

3:25 oh boy. that old lego graphics figure of cloud looks like popeye who joined a kpop band that was into japanese medieval army themes. no offense.

[@ravengrant767]

Lmao this comment goes hard

[@Stephen-Fox]

What about Cloud's original game battle model, since as I recall FFVII used better models for the battle scenes as the overworld (Though not as good as the cutscenes)? I'd love to say the artwork in the original FFVII, but Smash Cloud's main costume is so spot on to that design (albeit with less spiky hair) but rendered well that I have to go with that - I just prefer the purple to the more black/navy of the remake for him (though aside that the remake has a great take on his original design)

[@Ragiroth]

The Advent Children outfit will always be my favorite

[@LANDON.T.A]

“The price of freedom is steep” - The True Legend

[@scoffeex1740]

Please do a video about Sora's designs

[@ArtistMarkFlynn]

I'll put him in a future poll for sure!

[@scoffeex1740]

@@ArtistMarkFlynn thanks

[@betanick14]

This is a pretty good suggestion

[@ArtistMarkFlynn]

@@scoffeex1740 no worries

[@manosmanos469]

Original 1997 Cloud all the way! Nomura knew what he was doing!

[@ArtistMarkFlynn]

That original bit of art is awesome

[@maxorigmvs5451]

I gotta go with the KH1 outfit due to it being nostalgic for me. That was the first time I ever saw him. The promotional art would be a close second.

[@danbakitus9380]

Same

[@michie123]

Hair wise it’s a toss up. I love his asymmetrical hair style but I love how his hair looks on top in AC especially in Smash 5.

[@An0therAssassin]

Let’s be honest though it’s a Gohan in piccolo clothing clone but damn he makes it look good

[@ArtistMarkFlynn]

Yeah that model is so much like gohan it's unreal 😂

[@ryjoy]

Great video Mark! I cant believe just how many Cloud's there are all together. It's interesting to see the ways in which he's changed and the ways he's stayed the same. I also had no idea half of these looks even existed! I think its interesting how little the Buster Sword changed. Definitely an iconic piece so I understand not messing with it. It's interesting that KH had the most altered design for it!

[@ArtistMarkFlynn]

Thank you! Glad you could find out a few new things! The sword is strange as I literally could find no info about it anywhere. Reminds me of Kisame from Naruto lol.

[@cross5464]

I just realized something about cloud being skinny. Some people think that it's ridiculous because he has a big ass sword and it's impossible for him to wield. We forget that he was a SOLDIER meaning he has extraordinary strength because of that. Like what it's said in the game, he chose power over his normal life

[@Klausiancliff89]

He never was in soldier

[@tardistime6857]

That ps3 demo still hurts

[@ArtistMarkFlynn]

I know! At least the pay off was worth it though! Wonder how many people thought it was legit though?

[@Chelaxim]

@@ArtistMarkFlynn Most people thought it was going to be a remake even though it stated it was a tech demo. Just like the FFVI N64 tech demo,FFVIII PS2 tech demo and now people think Agni's Philosophy is FFXVI lol.But Agni's Philosophy could be FFXVI because this is the longest we've gone without even the slightest hint of the next numbered title.

[@ArtistMarkFlynn]

@@Chelaxim I legit had no idea about that ff8 ps2 demo, thanks for mentioning it!

[@shadowstephen8296]

I think the remake design and Advent Children Cloud are equally skinny, especially in the arms.

[@ArtistMarkFlynn]

You think? I went back on the idea a lot but I definitely think Cloud looks more muscular here. Could be the outfit is putting more emphasis on his guns. 💪

[@shadowstephen8296]

Zyngurj Pyrezbaf He looks tough but those arms could be more bulky.

[@ArtistMarkFlynn]

@@shadowstephen8296 he'll be ripped after the squatting minigame

[@danbakitus9380]

@@ArtistMarkFlynn Lmao

[@Salim-RS]

I really do enjoy Original FF7 Cloud alot, plus I do love his FF Record Keeper look too. Side note on Record Keeper, it also has sprites for Advent Children and KH costumes for Cloud that he could use instead, which I adore.

[@brianwallace2038]

5:14 I'm in love with that Final Fantasy Tactics desingn!

[@ArtistMarkFlynn]

Its cool isn't it!

[@C4DNerd]

Absolutely agree that the FFVII Remake Cloud is the best he has ever looked (And, though we have only heard a small portion of his lines, I also think this is the best Cloud has ever SOUNDED too). The only thing I'm worried about with the Remake is the fact that it only takes place in Midgar, yet somehow requires 2 Blu-Ray discs. Midgar in the original was only really 5-6 hours long at most, and so I can only assume that 70% of the story in this remake is going to be added filler. Other than that, the gameplay looks solid, visuals are incredible, voice acting is amazing. Hoping it turns out great

[@ArtistMarkFlynn]

It's going to have a lot of extra midgar stuff for sure. But I'm certain they can make it interesting rather than filler. Here's hoping!

[@GregoryAlanBaileygamereviews]

I like the Ehrgeiz cgi version of Cloud holding the Buster Sword behind his back.

[@johntitor1619]

you only have 20k subs? bro the quality of this video is better than what most 100k+ channels would put out

[@ArtistMarkFlynn]

Cheers dude. Appreciate that!

[@thisWinglessAngel]

You didn't mention his outfit in the G-Bike mobile game! I liked the biker look they gave him in there, it doesn't get enough attention.

[@ArtistMarkFlynn]

Have had a look at g bike a bit recently, absolutely love the tifa design from it!

[@SkryptViciouz]

I think so. Remake Cloud looks believable not cartoon/anime like. It's a tie between Remake and Advent Children to me.

[@ArtistMarkFlynn]

Nice to have a lot of people agreeing on the new design! Square done good.

[@SkryptViciouz]

Yessir. I've been a fan, since I was a kid, of 7 and I'm hype they're keeping true to the story.

[@ArtistMarkFlynn]

@@SkryptViciouz I think there will be a few changes. But as long as it hits the same main beats I'll be happy!

[@pikaboom6539]

Wait, uh, why is the narrator saying Advent Children Cloud looks skinny...when he’s actually very clearly and obviously more muscular and ripped than his original design? Am I watching this video from an alternate universe or something?

[@dillonkinder9296]

Cloud looks funny with short hair since Advent Children to now

[@vanred7550]

In my opinion, the Cloud in AC had more natural body structure and muscle definition. The Remake Cloud looks thinner (nearly looks like sickly) but with more toned muscles

[@cloudtg462]

My personal favorite design is the Dissidia Nt design. Followed by the Remake

[@Ymir_r]

9:37 probably not the weirdest smile Sora has given tho Also great video!!

[@ArtistMarkFlynn]

True sora is a bit of a derp

[@LinkSergilBelmont]

Great video. How about make one about the Buster Sword too or other iconic video game weapons.

[@MovedbyTruth]

I liked his hand drawn representation from back when the original came out. It was in the book that came in the game case as well as the original strategy guide. The promotional art one. As far as his more realistic versions go I think the FFVII Remake Cloud looks the best. Better than Advent Children Cloud. Is there anyone else here that can't wait to see Yuffi in the remake?

[@ArtistMarkFlynn]

I'm looking forward to seeing Cid the most! Wondering if they are gonna tone down his dialogue at all 😂

[@Shadow_of_Yharnam]

Short answer : YES! All iterations of clouds OG design made his pants more fitted and streamlined and the remake went back to the baggy , triangular ‘90s styles pants he had from the original designs.

[@BlueberryShikua]

This is my favorite character design video out of all of them you had made.

[@ArtistMarkFlynn]

That's awesome to hear! I'm so glad you enjoyed it! :}

[@Alberto_Tellez]

The Cloud Strife design I like the most, of course, is the one used in the Final Fantasy VII Remake. Realistic. And I mean that it did take the original FFVII version and the Advent Children version and put them together into a demandingly realistic look complete with lots of wear-and-tear effects. Amazing. I'm not a Final Fantasy fan but I'm very pleased to support you, in fact *anyone,* in any video looking back at the design history of any video game character we please.

[@Sean-D78]

Coming out of E3 *27 Jul 2019*

[@ArtistMarkFlynn]

Gotta go fast

[@PurpleSnake]

Wait. He's Smash design most resemble his Dissidia design, does it not? I mean look at the ever so slightly slimmer pants and how his right glove is fingerless rather than a standard glove. Although, the color on the suit is definitely more inspired by his original appearance seeing as how his Dissidia counter-part has a darker tone to it.

[@ArtistMarkFlynn]

I don't think it most resembles the Dissidia design purely on his hairstyle alone tbh

[@zaytaz9331]

How time flies huh Even this video is 3 years old!

[@ArtistMarkFlynn]

Its wild! Nice to see people are still stumbling on some of these now though

[@zaytaz9331]

@@ArtistMarkFlynn yep! I'm playing ff7 remake after 2 years of its release lmao

[@ArtistMarkFlynn]

I'm replaying it as well on steam deck and pc at present lol. Looking forward to finally getting to the extra content.

[@belmontzar]

As goofy as it is, my fave outfit is probably his Kh1 look. I mean just look at it, its so so.. COOL man!

[@ShapeyFiend]

Anybody know why he's got a bandaged sword in Kingdom Hearts?

[@ArtistMarkFlynn]

I think samurai used to bandage their swords as a way to not damage them...but no idea why Cloud does in KH and not FF7 lol

[@batzgameguru]

Regardless looks badass

[@thatonedan7780]

Its prolly related to him "bandaging" or keeping the darkness inside of him hidden away

[@ArtistMarkFlynn]

@@thatonedan7780 good guess!

[@batzgameguru]

@@thatonedan7780 I was thinking maybe cuz his blades too sharp and he didn't want an easy fight

[@cashnelson2306]

Smash Cloud wins hands down. KH Cloud comes second.

[@rsotuyo15]

I disagree, the KH Cloud is basically Nomura not understanding the WHOLE arc that Cloud pass for in FFVII. Originally they planned that Vincent was the one to appeared and that would have been better.

[@jamallewis260]

@@rsotuyo15 I thought cloud from kingdom hearts was just that game's iteration of the character and not the original's

[@meteornome2556]

@@rsotuyo15 KH Cloud is using the power of Darkness and is a hired mercenary that's trying to kill Hercules, of course he's not going to be acting like endgame FF7 Cloud. Unlike say Neku who does act like post TWEWY Neku

[@rsotuyo15]

@@meteornome2556 But wasn't the point of KH the interactions between all those characters? Everyone with they own personality and history (from their home games/movies) so I don't like what dumb Nomura did to Cloud

[@meteornome2556]

@@rsotuyo15 No KH Cloud doesn't have the same history as FF Cloud. Sephiroth for example represents the darkness of Cloud like Vanitas is to Ventus in KH. In Final Fantasy Sephiroth is a fallen hero who went crazy. Even Squall has a different history then his Final Fantasy VIII counterpart and honestly Kingdom Hearts Squall has a better personality and is more likeable then Final Fantasy Squall. It seems only the TWEWY gang and Auron are from their canon games.

[@davidoli]

It's jarring how not many people knows Cloud shows up randomly on the FF5 load screen from the PS1 release in FF5 sprite style!! i can't even find a pic of it on the internet, it's a shame. Great vid!

[@ArtistMarkFlynn]

I'm pretty sure I heard about this once but it's laid lost in my brain until now! That's a cool thing to look out for! Cheers for watching!

[@ThePersonAwesome]

I really love the original artwork as well as the dissidia art. The ingame models don’t look as great though. As far as Ingame models go, I think the FF7 remake is my favorite

[@ArtistMarkFlynn]

Good choice!

[@onedankpotato610]

What's the music playing at 5:50? It sound's a lot like Crystalline Chill from FFXV

[@ArtistMarkFlynn]

It's from Ehgreiz, pretty sure it's the ff7 prelude from that game.

[@onedankpotato610]

@@ArtistMarkFlynn Ahh I see, thank you!

[@DemonDethchase]

The remake looks good though I kinda wish they went an anime cel shaded route, to try and recreate the CG cutscenes from the original title, as they did lean closer to Tetsuya Nomura's more manga/anime art style, compared to the chibi in game character models. Though my dream is to see IX remade with a cel shaded look that would recreate Yoshitaka Amano's artwork. Everything on the character, like hair, clothing and the stripes and patterns on them would wave, swirl and sway, so even if the characters were standing ideal, there'd still be some movement. Think like that bit from the Innuendo music video where it featured illustrations of the members of Queen and what accessories they had were moving and all that. It'll never happen ofcourse, but thats my dream

[@ArtistMarkFlynn]

Cel shaded anime style would've been nuts. Would be stylistically very different though and I'm quite happy with what we've currently got!

[@DemonDethchase]

@@ArtistMarkFlynn the idea for an anime direction came about was when we getting radio silence and with the nightmare development that was XV with numerous engine changes, and trying to get it running, I thought "what did Capcom do with Okami when it started, and they were shooting for the realistic look?" They went cel shaded and also found they got better performance as it wasn't as taxing on consoles. Just one of those crazy ideas you throw out knowing it'll happen

[@DemonDethchase]

@@ArtistMarkFlynn there was a thought that came to me a few days ago. As I said about it would have been nice to see FFVII remake recreate the art of Nomura with cel shaded graphics, I looking at the Sonic Adventure artwork and I thought, what with that rumoured Adventure remake being in the works, they should go cel shaded for that, as a means of bringing the art to life. Ofcourse it won't happen, much like my dream cel shaded Amano FFIX remake, but that is my (other) dream. Plus as well for it to be more like Resident Evil, as in taking the base game and expanding upon it, rather than the usual 1:1 remakes we're getting these days with Crash and Shadow of the Colossus to name some examples.

[@dracoerrarus4834]

Thought I’d mention that FF: Record Keeper has 2-D sprites of both the original purple outfit and the Advent Children outfit. And how did cross dressing not get mentioned in this video?!

[@safaa9654]

Reno looked absolutely fantastic in Advent Children you can fight me about this

[@mammothplant]

Cloud's lost a lot of his luster over the years, honestly. His OG design will always be my fav.

[@ladysongoku7319]

Cloud strife super saiyan confirmed

[@AndrewWolfMan20]

I believe Cloud was put into Smash( besides high demands from us fans) because FF7 was at one point gonna be on the SNES before being made into a PSX title. Also, since the FF series started on Nintendo generally, it makes sense they chose him to represent the series as a whole and since he's more well known. Just wanted to share my thoughts, but besides all that, my favorite Cloud design is definitely the remake with his Smash Bros look being second because it's a beautiful design of his original FF7 look!

[@NigtMareZero]

7:55, sorry to break it for you but Cloud was never in SOLDIER. He never made it and was only a normal infantryman. I understand why people sometimes think that while not understanding the story competely. But it is fact that he never was SOLDIER. Not even 3rd class as some people state sometimes.

[@ArtistMarkFlynn]

I know dude. He's referred to as that for a majority of the game, the idea of this video wasn't to go indepth and spoil the game. He first appears as a member of Soldier. That's all I meant!

[@NigtMareZero]

@@ArtistMarkFlynn Alright then.

[@davidoros3268]

It's probably in the comments somewhere, but Final Fantasy Record Keeper also featured 16 bit sprite versions of KH Cloud and Advent Children Cloud! All three are very great representatives of each depiction of Cloud!

[@ArtistMarkFlynn]

I nerd to check these out!

[@ArtistMarkFlynn]

Meant to say need... Nerd seems appropriate though!

[@shadonicz]

i always thought that Cloud had the best PS1 looking model during the last fight against Sephiroth in the lifestream.His Ehrgeiz version always felt wrong to me somehow.

[@jeom3808]

10:52 Bandaged *fusion* sword* (But yea i get what you mean, they just added the past bandages, i guess to keep them on the Keyblade that was tide with it)

[@ArtistMarkFlynn]

Didn't even realise they'd updated his sword to the AC style as well! Wonder why they kept the bandages still. 🤣

[@jeom3808]

The Artist Mark Flynn X] My guess is that Nomura first made the keyblade design( “the Fenrir” ) based on clould’s first appearance and wanted to keep the bandages because he likes the look of them on the keyblade (so he had to keep them on cloud’s sword for people to understand the connection between the two.) Also maybe to keep the separation between the KH universe cloud and movie’s/ff7’s cloud 🤷‍♂️😅 -or it’s just nomura’s own weird rule of cool, which at the time included belts and bandages that wrapped around just about anything to make the design “cooler”...yea probably that. X)

[@m0m02k]

Kingdom Hearts 2 Cloud would like to Disagree

[@ArtistMarkFlynn]

You mean Vincent?

[@ArtistMarkFlynn]

Actual mindfuck at your edit

[@666blaziken]

I think I will like ff7 remake game play, he plays like a cross between kh and there is a cool twist of the "bullet time" trope where there are turn based mechanics around that. If the game gets enough polish, I think it will be fantastic.

[@The-Solo-Rider]

Advent Children design was the absolute best. Loved it & still love it. Best look Cloud has ever had. Although, it doesn't take away from the original. Always pay homage to the OG outfit. Always. Love you Cloud!

[@JIMJACK_YE_YE]

why does everybody say cloud was in soldier? have you played the game?

[@ArtistMarkFlynn]

It's because for a huge chunk of the game he is referred to as being in soldier. That's pretty much why anyone would mention it. (regardless of plot twists and what not)

[@joaquinsantiago6354]

Cloud with a wing and red cape has to be the best Cloud

[@druvjuice6906]

Reno is a supermodel who models for gangster clothes

[@mike9574]

I personally really like the smash iteration due to him being my main since the launch of ultimate and I really love his classic design. It’s symbolic and reminds everyone that that also love Mario’s polygonal look

[@JKSmith-qs2ii]

I’m really surprised you didn’t show clouds battle model from the PS1 game? That one looks better that the over world model.

[@TRDGE]

Even though it's subjective... I've been playing FFVII like most of us since it first came out. However, just on a design perspective alone, I loved his appearance in Advent Children. I can't believe its been about 15 years since it was first released in Japan in 2005... but when I first saw his new rendering it was so awesome to see such a beloved character fully fleshed out like that and despite FF7 Remake coming out, AC Cloud still has my #1 pick.

[@ilovecorpseparty8930]

Cloud’s hair is phenomenal

[@ThomasWilliamson]

Agreed! The new cloud looks amazing. I like the idea that you would be able to customize the characters in FF7 remake. You could give cloud his advent children outfit, or maybe his Kingdom Hearts one! Like wise with the other characters.

[@ArtistMarkFlynn]

I think the different equippable weapons will definitely look different aesthetically too. Here's hoping for some customisation choices!

[@chomperelectric2676]

Will you make Crash Bandicoot or Banjo Kazooie?

[@TYbudgie]

I dislike the revised design of the buster sword. One of my favorite qualities of the original game was that Shinra's advanced tech was an anomaly in an otherwise low-tech fantasy world. I always dug that the buster sword just looked like a hunk of iron beaten together. Hopefully the roughness of the original world isn't entirely smoothed over in the remake.

[@Articuno224]

My personal favorites are: FF7 Remake Cloud Dissidia NT Cloud Smash Cloud Original FF7 Cloud KH2 Cloud Advent Children Cloud They're not in any specific order though, just all the ones I like the most. I've also seen some pretty good fan-made Cloud models in Jump-Force, GTA and Dead or Alive. (at least I think they're pretty good)

[@ArtistMarkFlynn]

I'll have to look at the jump force one. That'd be interesting to see!

[@Shubocchi]

advent children cloud and kh2 cloud is the same xd

[@ArtistMarkFlynn]

@@Shubocchi it's the same outfit sure, but graphic capabilities make them look completely different. One is semi realistic and one is more anime like.

[@Articuno224]

@@ArtistMarkFlynn Exactly!

[@TheUruse]

The clothe got from black to dark blue because the constant of washing using bleach lol.

[@ArtistMarkFlynn]

At least he is clean.

[@BellowDGaming]

I agree with you. FF7 Remake Cloud has to be the best, but the most badass has to be his Kingdom Hearts Vincent hybrid, those are my two favorite Cloud designs. As for illustration design Ehrgiez's 2D artwork from Tetsuya Nonomura is my fav.

[@ruiinomi]

i personally really like the art style for Clouds Dissidia Final Fantasy depiction, possibly because it was one of the first games i picked up? really hyped for FF VII ✨

[@lordmegatron4789]

the dissidia illustrations are just really nice

[@georgielockhart6686]

For me I love hia kingdom hearts 1 design but thats because I friggin LOVED Nomura's artwork for that game. Ill go with his original look after that. Also pleasr note i loathe Tifa's look in advent children/KH2 but i love her original look and think she looks great on the remake.

[@ArtistMarkFlynn]

I think she looks great in the remake too tbh. Not sure why it got so much criticism.

[@creativebodyflying]

I really like the job they did in the Remake and Advent Children Complete! I'd say I prefer his weapon set up, his clothing and the fact he owns a badass motorcycle from AC! They did amazing job on mimics too, both FF7r and AC.

[@hyde7100]

I'm glad I main Cloud in SSBU

[@ArtistMarkFlynn]

I do as well. He's awesome!

[@mechajay3358]

Can't go wrong with the Original. (Lego Cloud excluded)

[@ArtistMarkFlynn]

I do love me some Lego cloud tbh 😂

[@Emil-lf3no]

I still can't get over the KH desgin why the bandages they make no sense

[@PrinceOfHardhome]

Uh, there's a reason why Cloud is thin and slim. The developers said they wanted a less muscular protag, not some stereotype. They already had Barret as the brawny type. They studied male ballet dancers for this, cuz they wanted Cloud to be small and slim, yet slightly muscular and still strong enough to wield such a large sword. Also he was not a soldier, never... I'm all for the Remake Cloud, for some reason he always already looked that way in my head, I was so pleased to see his remade version. Going by outfits, I appreciate the sleeves or one sleeve he has in Advent Children, added to his original outfit. He is truly the most beautiful, visibly pleasing and perfect video game character, right after Prince Noctis, who I think beats him by a few points. But only cuz I can appreciate Cloud's feminine features, and in Noctis, I appreciate the masculine features the most. They're basically equal tho.

[@KonkeyVG]

Maybe this is a bit niche but in a similar vein to Cloud's redesigns perhaps a look at the designs of Guts (Berserk) would be cool?

[@HoverReid]

My favourite has always been the Advent Children design tbh. Still is

[@KnightRaymund]

I love the look of a lot of characters in Record Keeper, including Cloud. His new look is great, though I guess I wish his color palate was a tad brighter. His shirt is very dark. Still, really nice.

[@ArtistMarkFlynn]

FF6 sprite style is the ultimate 2D style for me as far as final fantasy goes. Gutted that style is missing from a lot of mobile ports.

[@ariefwijaya7868]

every cloud in Advent Children's hair

[@SuperSolaris1]

Noticed it too. Seem cloud hairstyle nowadays look like advent children. It nothing wrong with it. But I missed his unique orginal hairstyle.

[@Killer_Kool7]

@@SuperSolaris1 his hairstyle is still unique

[@russellhattal3328]

But, what about Cloud's in game model during battles...

[@princeapoopoo5787]

geez, i'm surprised that he didn't just murder sephiroth with his hair.

[@ArtistMarkFlynn]

1 disk only game in that case

[@princeapoopoo5787]

The Artist Mark Flynn Yeah, but we'd probably still have Aerith. :'(

[@glimmerxp]

Song at 7:20 ?

[@madestmadhatter]

Not mentioning the fight sequence cloud that was a mid point between world map cloud and cut scene cloud, but literally showing it in the background while talking about how he was only ever polygon itsy when you played as him.

[@ArtistMarkFlynn]

I have no idea how I missed it tbh! Have a section on it in my upcoming Sephiroth video!

[@shinra358]

why is the materia so big when it is in their hand and so small when it is in the weapons? It's bugging the hell outta me. They all need to be small except the key item materias.

[@SolSilvr007]

Though the remake design is the best, my favorite design of his is from Dissidia Duodecim when he was one of the Warriors of Chaos. The outfit was based on his Amano artwork.

[@jtdreamworld]

What about the Amano ff7 art?