Greatest Video Game Characters of All Time
Cloud Strife (Final Fantasy VII) or Samus Aran (Metroid)
Pick Your Favorite
VS
Your GOAT List
Why This Battle Matters
Who shapes the future of gaming legacy—Samus Aran, the galactic bounty hunter enveloped in mystery and prowess, or Cloud Strife, the brooding swordsman with a heart marred by deep scars? This isn't just a battle, it's a clash of gaming titans from different eras, each championing a distinct narrative style—Samus's silent, isolative strength versus Cloud’s emotionally charged journey of redemption and resistance. The victor here doesn’t just walk away with bragging rights; they redefine greatness in our cultural memory. What resonates more with you: the stoic enigma or the tortured hero?
🔥 Fan Takes
How Fans Are Voting
In this battle:
Fans currently prefer Samus Aran (Metroid) over Cloud Strife (Final Fantasy VII) when it comes to the greatest Video Game Characters of all time. In head-to-head matchups, fans pick Samus Aran (Metroid) 66.7% of the time over Cloud Strife (Final Fantasy VII).
Across all battles:
Samus Aran (Metroid) win rate: 20.0%
Cloud Strife (Final Fantasy VII) win rate: 30.2%
Fan FAQs
Who's the #1 contender on GoatWars in this league?
Currently, Mario is sitting at the top of the leaderboard in the Greatest Video Game Characters of All Time league. You can check out how all the characters stack up against each other on the GOAT List.
What makes Cloud Strife so popular among fans?
Cloud Strife's enduring appeal comes from his complex character arc in Final Fantasy VII. His journey from a conflicted mercenary to a heroic savior provides a deep, emotional connection that fans really relate to. Plus, that Buster Sword? Totally iconic!
Why is Samus Aran currently leading against Cloud Strife in the Greatest Video Game Characters of All Time league?
Samus Aran is pulling ahead thanks to her iconic status as one of the first female protagonists in video games, which really resonates with fans. Her cool, armored suit and her role in the sci-fi classic Metroid series give her an edge in nostalgia and groundbreaking appeal.