Few weapons in gaming history are as iconic as the Buster Sword from Final Fantasy VII. Massive, rugged, and instantly recognizable, it symbolizes not only the game’s protagonist, Cloud Strife, but also the complex themes of identity, memory, and legacy that define the FFVII universe.
In this post, we’ll dive into the legacy of the Buster Sword and explore how it connects to the characters who wield it—particularly Cloud, Zack Fair, and Angeal Hewley—unpacking how this blade tells a deeper story than mere steel ever could.
The Buster Sword: More Than Just a Weapon
At first glance, the Buster Sword is an impractically large hunk of metal—measuring around six feet long and often portrayed as absurdly heavy. But its exaggerated size serves a narrative purpose: it’s a weapon that commands attention and respect, mirroring the emotional weight it carries in the story.
Originally wielded by Angeal Hewley in Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII, the Buster Sword was passed down to Zack Fair, and later to Cloud. Each handoff represents a transfer of ideals, responsibilities, and burdens. The sword isn’t just a tool of combat—it’s a symbol of honor, mentorship, and sacrifice.
Background and Mythology
Cloud is a native of the small town of Nibelheim, who wants to become part of the elite forces of SOLDIER, an organisation of the Shinra Corporation. However, he never managed to get beyond the rank of infantry. Experiments using Jenova cells resulted in the mingling of Cloud’s memories with those of Zack Fair, causing him identity problems. Cloud emerges as an unwilling hero to save the world from Sephiroth’s attempt to destroy it.
Role and Abilities
- Primary Role in the Game: Protagonist, Leader, Warrior
- Special Abilities/Skills: Braver, Omnislash, Stronger muscles, Materia.
- Weapons/Equipment: Buster Sword, Materia (Magic System)
Memorable Quotes
“I’m not a hero. I’m just a guy who’s trying to save the planet.”
“Let’s mosey.”
“No one lives in the slums because they want to. It’s like this train. It can’t run anywhere except where its rails take it.”
Related Characters
Sephiroth: Primary antagonist and rival of Cloud.
Tifa Lockhart: Child friend and emotional lifeline.
Aerith Gainsborough: romantic interest and tragic figure in the storyline of Cloud.