Sephiroth is the main antagonist of Final Fantasy VII, Final Fantasy VII Remake, and Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, and one of the major antagonists in its extended universe. In spin-off appearances, Sephiroth is depicted as Cloud Strife's archenemy and is seen as a symbol of Cloud's troubled past that haunts him. He is a former renowned SOLDIER who became twisted.

== Appearance == Sephiroth is a tall man with a muscular build, being 6'1” or 185 cm tall. His long silver hair has bangs parted to either side of his face. Sephiroth has bright cyan irises and slit cat-like pupils.

His signature wardrobe is a long black coat with silver pauldrons, black boots, and black trousers. The top of his coat is open to reveal his chest, with his leather SOLDIER suspenders crossed over it. The wardrobe changes slightly between the Compilation of Final Fantasy VII and Final Fantasy VII Remake; in the former, his coat has several buckles instead of one, while in the latter, he has a different belt buckle with a wing motif in the center and small black feathers hanging from it, yellow and green lights reflect from the slots, which may be materia Sephiroths belt from FFVII Remake. Sephiroth wields the Masamune, a seven-foot-long ōdachi he is rarely seen without.

== Personality == Sephiroth is a complex figure whose personality undergoes a dramatic transformation. Initially, he was a respected and admired SOLDIER, known for his stoicism and professionalism. However, after learning the truth about his origins and the Jenova Project, his personality drastically shifts.

He becomes cold, calculating, and ruthlessly efficient. He displays a chilling detachment from human life, viewing others as mere tools to achieve his goals. He possesses a strong sense of superiority, believing himself to be far above ordinary humans. This arrogance fuels his desire for power and his belief that he is destined to rule the planet.

He is highly intelligent and manipulative, capable of exploiting the weaknesses of others to his advantage. He uses psychological warfare to torment his enemies, particularly Cloud, playing on their fears and insecurities. He demonstrates a sadistic pleasure in inflicting pain and suffering, both physical and emotional.

The delusional Sephiroth becomes obsessed with power, thinking himself “the chosen one” of the planet. In order to achieve his evil ends, he's willing to sacrifice and kill anyone in his path. He is driven by a nihilistic desire to destroy the planet, believing that he is the only one worthy of inheriting its power. He is consumed by a vengeful rage against humanity for what he perceives as their betrayal and the exploitation of Jenova.

== Trivia ==

• "Sephiroth" is derived from the Kabbalistic Sefirot, the ten emanations of God in Jewish mysticism.
• His theme music, "One-Winged Angel," is one of the most iconic pieces of video game music ever created.
• His single wing is a symbol of his "fallen angel" status, representing his descent from a revered hero to a destructive force.
• He is known for his calm and collected speech, even when committing horrific acts.
• Sephiroth's sword, the Masamune, is named after a legendary Japanese swordsmith.
• He has made many appearances in other games, such as the Kingdom Hearts series, and Super Smash Bros. Ultimate.
• Sephiroth's connection to Jenova is a key element of his backstory, and the influence of Jenova's cells is a major factor in his madness.