10 Greatest Ever Final Fantasy Summons
2. Shiva
Like Ifrit, Shiva has appeared in almost every main series game since her first incarnation as the blue lady in FFIII.
Unlike her fiery counterpart, Shiva is often much more sympathetic of the party's plight and is more willing to join without needing to battle her first, with only a few exceptions. Her Diamond Dust attack is one of the most progressive of any summon, as she is simultaneously often one of the first summons obtained, while also one of the most powerful given enough levelling.
She is often considered Ifrit's opposite, not only in element, but also in personality. She meets his rage and impulsiveness with a calmer, more empathic style, reflected in their summon attacks. While Ifrit smashes boulders and whirls flames around the battlefield, Shiva summons devastating ice attacks through dance and gentle movement.
This was most recently reflected in FFXV when her compassion for mankind won over Ifrit's hatred as she defeated him before Noctis' final showdown with Ardyn.