2) The Nibelheim Incident
The events at Nibelheim are absolutely crucial to the game’s narrative, detailing not only Cloud’s backstory but tying together the history of several of the game’s key characters. It is here that the game’s biggest plot twist is finally revealed as Cloud’s confusion over his past is brought to light and his history with Sephiroth is understood. Tifa, Zack and Vincent’s plotlines are also bound by their mutual affiliation to Nibelheim, and the crescendo of this particular chapter in the game results in one of the most iconic scenes in the whole of Final Fantasy VII.
Sephiroth’s rather serious mommy issues see him go buck wild, setting fire to Nibelheim and brutally murdering its inhabitants. As Cloud watches in horror, Sephiroth looks up at him coldly and then turns away, walking into the flames that have engulfed the village.
[zergpaid]It’s a powerful and terrifying moment in the game accompanied by equally disturbing music that really epitomizes the ultimate evil of Sephiroth’s character. It’s a legendary scene and the image of Sepiroth surrounded by the burning village of Nibelheim is etched in Final Fantasy legend.
The Nibelheim incident has become so popular that it has spawned both a spinoff video game and an anime production that re-explores the story from differing perspectives. This is a scene that hardcore Final Fantasy VII fans are going to be itching to see again. If the remake manages to nail its tone, Sepherioth’s legendary walk into the flames could be destined for a second run return as one of video gaming’s most iconic moments.
