Final Fantasy Cid: The Age-Old Debate Among Fans

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In the realm of Final Fantasy, numerous cherished characters have emerged throughout the years, yet none spark as much discussion as Cid. Making an appearance in one form or another since the beginning of the franchise, Cid has transcended his name to symbolize the series itself. While some enthusiasts embrace the fresh portrayals of Cid in contemporary titles like *Final Fantasy XVI*, others view these new versions as significant departures from the legendary character that many grew up with. A recent post on a fan forum sparked a lively debate about Cid’s age, alterations in his personality over time, and whether the latest design strikes the right chord or has instead steered the airship towards disaster.

Summary

  • The portrayal of Cid has evolved significantly, leading to a divisive perception among fans about his character.
  • While some fans appreciate the new, fresh take on Cid, others feel it strays too far from tradition.
  • Character traits matter in how fans relate to Cid, with some desiring flaws that make him more relatable.
  • The balance between staying faithful to the original design and modernizing Cid remains a key point of contention.

The Many Faces of Cid

The discussion about Cid’s character is frequently centered around the balance between how fans view maturity and their nostalgic feelings. In recent games, especially *FFXVI*, Cid is portrayed as a more mature character, some saying he carries age with dignity. A user named Shintasama noted that Cid can still embody the image of a “kind-hearted old pilot,” but others argue his design seems more like an “elderly man with a limp.” This contrast poses a challenge for fans like Shintasama, who try to reconcile Cid’s traditional depictions with his character development in each game. While nostalgia cherishes memories of the fast-living and boisterous Cid from childhood, this newer version offers a more realistic portrayal, which might disappoint some longtime fans who miss that eccentric charm.

Flaws Make the Character

In discussions about Cid, a common topic is his shortcomings – or the absence of them, as some might argue. User bobagremlin admired the “ruffian Cid” from previous games, noting that he had genuine, relatable flaws. The intricacies of Cid’s flawed character make it easier for players to connect with him on a deeper level. Adding depth to characters is particularly valuable in a vast universe like Final Fantasy, where outlandish storylines are commonplace. Some fans may find the transition to a more heroic persona less appealing, preferring the gray areas where even heroes aren’t always perfect. In this context, they can still grapple with moral dilemmas, making victories feel more satisfying and authentic.

The Age-Old Debate of Character Age

Oh, the evolution of our cherished heroes’ age – a subject that’s ignited more discussions than the mystery surrounding the name of any protagonist’s airship! The aging process of Cid, as depicted across different titles, has been a central theme in many conversations. Some enthusiasts are thrilled to see an older Cid, as it mirrors a realistic progression of life, as pointed out by VermilionX88 in one post where he remarked, “He finally looks his age in the remake.” Yet, the philosophical quandary of what ‘age’ should embody in a fictional universe adds complexity to this debate. Some fans believe that the designers could have delved deeper, incorporating traditional concepts of aging into the narrative. For instance, fineilladdanumber9 proposed that they could have used Cid’s smoking habit as both a character characteristic and an explanation for his worn appearance, thereby offering a grittier, more identifiable portrayal.

Cid in Customer Service Mode

What’s even cooler than being an airship pilot? How about working in customer service, which is where Cid finds himself now, and some fans humorously call it “Customer Service Mode.” While some believe that his portrayal has been “ruined,” as user MarioGirl369 pointed out, this view seems exaggerated. Does helping others mean he’s lost his tough side? Some purists yearn for the old, gruff Cid, but others appreciate the relatable qualities of this new version. Even though adding a dash of humor to his dialogue doesn’t change the fact that we should still explore where he might go next. It might be best to let the story develop before passing judgment.

In essence, dialogues about the character Cid within the Final Fantasy universe delve into profound aspects of the community: the emotional impact characters have on us and how developing stories test our attachments. It’s a clash between nostalgia and character development or contrasting views on age and flaws, ensuring that debates about Cid will remain captivating for fans far into the future. The series skillfully manages the delicate balance of preserving beloved characters while introducing new elements, but let’s be honest—what we truly yearn for is to climb aboard that airship and embark on a journey, ideally with an eccentric old pilot as our companion.

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2025-06-07 03:30