There are many good reasons why Sephiroth belongs in the upper echelons of great video game villains alongside the likes of Kefka in Final Fantasy VI, Luca Blight from Suikoden II, and even Ardyn from Final Fantasy XV. Even before Nibelheim, Sephiroth was Sephiroth. These potent traits were passed on to Sephiroth. Sephiroth's father, Professor Hojo was also one of the most manipulative, cruel, and egotistical characters in the game. The official Ultimania Omega for Final Fantasy VII released by Square-Enix revealed that while it was Jenova's cells that gave him his power and the trigger for his descent into madness, it was ultimately Sephiroth's will that overtook Jenova's power. Sephiroth's ethos can be felt throughout the entire game, and -like any great villain - completely steals the show. Many great villains with distinct appearances, also have a profound screen presence. Many critics have written off Sephiroth based purely on his looks alone, with statements along the lines of, 'he's only popular because he looks cool.' Truthfully, the same can be said for many memorable villains from Darth Vader in Star Wars to Han Gruber in Die Hard. Debates have raged on for years between fans about whether or not he was even the true villain in Final Fantasy VII, or if it was Jenova. Love him or hate him Sephiroth has become one of the most iconic villains in gaming.
