Master the Secrets: How to Unlock All Characters in Final Fantasy 7 – Final Fantasy 7 (FF7) is one of the most iconic role-playing games of all time. With its captivating story, memorable characters, and immersive world, it’s no wonder fans still explore every corner of this classic. One of the most rewarding aspects of the game is unlocking all the playable characters. While some are part of the main story, others require specific steps to recruit. This guide will walk you through how to unlock every character in FF7, ensuring you don’t miss out on any member of your ultimate party.

1. The Core Characters (Automatically Unlocked)

Several characters join your team as part of the main storyline. These characters are integral to the game’s narrative and do not require any special actions to recruit.

Cloud Strife

Cloud, the protagonist of FF7, is the leader of your party. He is automatically available from the start and plays a central role throughout the game.

Barret Wallace

Barret, the leader of the eco-terrorist group AVALANCHE, joins Cloud early in the game. His powerful gun arm and determination make him a valuable ally.

Tifa Lockhart

Tifa, Cloud’s childhood friend, becomes a party member shortly after the events at the Sector 7 Slums. Her martial arts skills make her a strong physical attacker.

Aerith Gainsborough

Aerith is introduced in Midgar and joins the party after the initial confrontation with the Turks. Her healing and support abilities are crucial in the early stages of the game.

Red XIII (Nanaki)

Red XIII, a mysterious and intelligent creature, becomes a part of your team during your escape from the Shinra building.

Cait Sith

Cait Sith, a fortune-telling robot controlled remotely, joins your team during your visit to the Gold Saucer. His unique abilities bring variety to battles.

Cid Highwind

Cid, a passionate and gruff pilot, joins later in the game when you visit Rocket Town. His spear attacks and Limit Breaks make him a great addition to the team.

2. Optional Characters (Missable but Worth Unlocking)

FF7 also features two optional characters that require specific actions to unlock. These characters add depth to the game and can significantly enhance your experience.

• Yuffie Kisaragi

Yuffie is a cunning ninja who can be recruited in forests after leaving Midgar. Follow these steps to add her to your team:

1. Find Her in a Forest: Wander in forested areas near Junon or Gongaga until you encounter Yuffie in a random battle.
2. Defeat Her in Combat: She’ll challenge your party. Make sure to win the battle.
3. Respond Correctly: After the fight, you’ll have a conversation with her. To recruit her, choose the correct dialogue options:
   • Option 1: “Not interested.”
   • Option 2: “…Petrified.”
   • Option 3: “Wait a second!”
   • Option 4: “That’s right.”
   • Option 5: “Let’s hurry on.”

If you choose the wrong options, she’ll steal your gil and run off, forcing you to find her again.

• Vincent Valentine

Vincent is a mysterious and brooding character who hides in the Shinra Mansion in Nibelheim. To recruit him, follow these steps:

1. Enter the Shinra Mansion: During your visit to Nibelheim, explore the mansion thoroughly.
2. Solve the Safe Puzzle: Find the safe in the mansion and solve the combination lock. The combination is:
   • Right 36
   • Left 10
   • Right 59
   • Right 97
3. Defeat Lost Number: Opening the safe releases the powerful boss Lost Number. Defeat it to receive the Odin Materia and the key to Vincent’s room.
4. Unlock Vincent’s Coffin: Use the key to access the basement and locate Vincent’s coffin. Speak to him multiple times to convince him to join your team.

3. Why Unlocking Optional Characters Matters

Unlocking Yuffie and Vincent isn’t just about completing your roster. These characters have unique backstories and bring new dynamics to the narrative. For example:

• Yuffie’s Wutai Side Quest: Recruiting Yuffie unlocks an optional side quest in Wutai, where you’ll delve deeper into her motivations and culture.
• Vincent’s Connection to Sephiroth: Vincent’s story provides crucial details about Sephiroth’s origins and the Jenova Project, adding layers to the main plot.

4. Pro Tips for Unlocking Characters

• Save Frequently: Before attempting to recruit Yuffie or Vincent, save your progress. Mistakes can force you to backtrack.
• Engage in Exploration: Optional characters are often hidden in areas off the beaten path. Don’t rush through the game; take your time to explore.
• Prepare for Battles: Yuffie’s encounter and the Lost Number boss fight can be challenging if you’re under-leveled. Equip your party with strong Materia and gear.

5. Maximize Your Party’s Potential

Once you’ve unlocked all characters, consider building a balanced team for combat. Each character has unique strengths:

• Cloud Strife: Versatile attacker with powerful Limit Breaks.
• Tifa Lockhart: Quick and agile, excels in close-range combat.
• Barret Wallace: Tanky with long-range capabilities.
• Aerith Gainsborough: Essential for healing and support.
• Red XIII: Balanced stats and useful skills.
• Yuffie Kisaragi: Excellent for ranged physical attacks and stealing.
• Vincent Valentine: Strong magic user with unique Limit Breaks.
• Cid Highwind: Durable melee fighter with high damage output.

Experiment with different combinations to find the team that suits your playstyle.

6. Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I miss recruiting Yuffie or Vincent?

Yes, both characters are optional and can be missed. If you progress too far in the game without recruiting them, you won’t be able to add them to your party.

Q: Do Yuffie and Vincent have special Limit Breaks?

Absolutely! Both characters have powerful Limit Breaks that can turn the tide of battle. Make sure to unlock their ultimate weapons and Limit Breaks by completing their respective side quests.

Q: Do these characters impact the ending?

While Yuffie and Vincent do not change the main ending, their presence enriches the story with additional dialogue and scenes.

7. Final Thoughts

Master the Secrets: How to Unlock All Characters in Final Fantasy 7 is a rewarding experience that enhances the game’s depth and replayability. Whether you’re a new player or revisiting this classic, ensuring you recruit every character will give you a fuller appreciation of the game’s intricate story and mechanics.

Take your time to explore, complete side quests, and enjoy the journey. With all characters at your side, you’re well-equipped to take on Sephiroth and save the world. So gear up, dive into the adventure, and master the secrets of Final Fantasy 7!