Cloud is among the versatile members of Avalanche as he can excel in both offense and defense, which may confuse newer players if they’re not yet familiar. I’ve got you covered with some of the most optimized and best builds for Cloud in Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth.
Best builds for Cloud in FF7 Rebirth
Since everyone plays differently, we’ve created more than one optimal build for Cloud. Test them out and see which one fits you more!
Early Punisher Build
The Default Cloud build provided in the early game is very decent and will get you through most of the Grasslands content. However, we can further optimize the build so you can tank more damage and have a wider range of spells.
Now you have your gear all set up and ready to go, it’s time for the Folio skills. Here are the nodes I recommend getting as early as possible:
With this setup, you’ll be the main tank of your team while also exploiting theIce and Fire weaknessesof enemies. Since most enemies in the early game will mostly have physical attacks, you’ll be able to utilize counters using your Punisher mode.
I opted to use both Red XIII and Barret’s materials on Cloud (in the meantime) since Cloud can benefit fromboosted statsto carry the team through the Grasslands region.
Cloud’s default spell shortcuts are already enough as you haveFocused Thrustfor pressured enemies,Braverto deal a lot of damage once you’ve maxed the stagger multiplier, andTriple Slashfor a much-needed crowd management skill.Firebolt Bladeis a nice skill to pick up. However, it’s not necessary for this build, as you already have access to a fire spell.
Related:How to reduce stuttering and input lag in FF7 Rebirth
Elemental Exploiter Tank Build
This build utilizes the Sleek Saber, which has a lesser Magic Attack than the Buster Sword, but its Weapon Skill makes up for it. Here’s the setup below:
Here are the Folio nodes I recommend for this setup:
This build turns Cloud into a reliabletank/weakness exploiterduring battles. He will be able to take damage from enemies upfront while being able to cast awide variety of spellsto exploit enemy weaknesses throughout the battle.
You do have to be careful with this build as it’s only a semi-tank, meaning it can’t take too much damage, unlike the previous Punisher Build. I recommend having amain tankin your party, likeRed XIII, to help you draw aggro from the enemies in case you need to heal Cloud.
Plasma Discharge Build
If you’re looking for the most overpowered early-game builds, this is the one you’re looking for. However, you do need to get the enemy skill Plasma Discharge first.
Related:Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth Enemy Skill List
This is arguably the most broken early-game build. Plus, you can further boost this build using these Folio nodes:
This build works by utilizing theFirst Strike Materia and ATB Charge Rate Up, which, in turn, gives you a massive boost in filling up your ATB Gauge. The real damage comes in once thePlasma Discharge procs, which happens once you fill up your ATB Gauge.Since you have a build centered aroundcharging your ATB Gaugeas quickly as possible, you may expect a boatload ofPlasma Discharge procsthroughout your enemy encounters. Plasma Discharge also imbues your sword withlightning elemental, so you don’t even need an Elemental Materia.
For more guides onFinal Fantasy 7 Rebirth, check outWhere to find Quetzalcoatl Talon in FF7 Rebirthright here at Pro Game Guides!
