10 Video Game Tragedies That Elevated Stories
5. Sephiroth Kills Aeris - Final Fantasy VII
The next entry is one that many an RPG fan will be aware of. Final Fantasy VII is by far the most popular and beloved entry in the franchise's extensive catalogue. It was also a major transition, shifting to a modern setting and leaving behind the cartridge format in favour of the PlayStation's CDs.
As Cloud Strife, you join up with freedom fighters Avalanche to tackle the corrupt Shinra corporation, bringing many memorable characters into your party along the way. Barret, Vincent Valentine and Tifa are just some of the cast members that made an impression with gamers, but it was Aeris Gainsborough that arguably formed the greatest connection.
Throughout the game, a close bond forms between Cloud and Aeris; both her and the protagonist discover secrets about themselves throughout the game. Things come to a head when Aeris prays to the planet for help, where the villainous Sephiroth attempts to manipulate Cloud into killing her.
It doesn't work and Sephiroth thrusts his sword through Aeris instead, bringing many fans to tears. The game makes full use of PlayStation 1 to make her passing as moving and detailed as possible. As Cloud lays her to rest in a lagoon, the determination to defeat the sadistic soldier at the end of the game only intensifies.