What is SOLDIER Actually in Final Fantasy VII?

SOLDIER is mentioned countless times and their presence is very crucial in the world of Final Fantasy VII. SOLDIER was established by Shinra to serve as a powerful military force, primarily to protect the company’s interests and maintain control over the planet’s resources, the mako energy.

The identity of a 1st Class SOLDIER is deeply tied in Cloud Strife, becoming something he takes great pride in and even dreamed of as a child. This raises questions: How strong is a 1st Class SOLDIER? How many ranks are there within the SOLDIER organization? Why is SOLDIER so admired?

Understanding the origins and role of SOLDIER will help you understanding the complex story of Final Fantasy VII. Stay with us as we will talks the story about SOLDIER.

What is the Origin of SOLDIER?

The origin of SOLDIER in Final Fantasy VII is deeply rooted in the ambitions of the Shinra Electric Power Company, which aimed to create an elite military force to protect its interests and control the planet’s resources, particularly Mako energy.

To achieve this, Shinra established a program designed to enhance combat capabilities through a rigorous selection process and the controversial Mako treatment. This treatment significantly boosts the physical and magical abilities of its members but also carries serious risks, including psychological effects and physical deterioration.

As a result of the Mako treatment, many SOLDIERs develop distinctive glowing eyes, often depicted in vibrant shades of green or blue, marking their enhanced status. Initially, Shinra sought to enhance soldiers solely through Mako energy, derived from the planet’s life force.

However, the company aimed to create even more powerful warriors by experimenting with the DNA of the Cetra, an ancient race believed to have a unique connection to the planet.

In a critical misstep, Shinra mistakenly identified Jenova, an extraterrestrial entity known as the “calamity from the skies,” as a Cetra. They began using her cells in their experiments, believing that Jenova’s unique properties could significantly augment the abilities of those infused with her DNA.

This led to the creation of the first successful SOLDIER, Sephiroth, whose fusion of Jenova’s alien DNA and Mako not only enhanced his physical and magical capabilities but also introduced profound psychological effects. This is evident in Sephiroth’s eventual descent into madness upon discovering his true origins.

As Shinra sought to mass-produce more SOLDIERs like Sephiroth, they continued to utilize Jenova’s DNA, resulting in the creation of other notable characters, such as Genesis and Angeal.

How Many Classes In SOLDIER?

In the SOLDIER organization of Final Fantasy VII, there are three main classes that reflect a hierarchy of skill and experience.

The 1st Class is the highest rank, reserved for the most elite and skilled fighters, often sent on critical missions and celebrated as heroes; notable members include Sephiroth and Zack Fair.

The 2nd Class consists of experienced fighters who have proven themselves in battle but have not yet reached the pinnacle of 1st Class, often taking on leadership roles for lower-ranked SOLDIERs during significant missions.

Lastly, the 3rd Class serves as the entry-level rank for new recruits, who are still undergoing training and have limited combat experience, typically providing support for higher-ranked SOLDIERs.

It really makes sense why Cloud is so proud of his “status” as a 1st Class SOLDIER, as they are highly respected not only among other SOLDIERs but also among the citizens of Midgar and its surroundings.

Shinra Troopers vs SOLDIER vs Turks

Aside from SOLDIER, the Final Fantasy VII also shows two different kinds of army Shinra has, Troopers (Infantryman), and the Turks. All of them represent distinct facets of the Shinra Electric Power Company’s military and covert operations.

Shinra Troopers serve as the standard infantry, tasked with maintaining order and enforcing Shinra’s policies, but they lack the enhancements provided by Mako treatment, making them less formidable in combat. Troopers can climb a rank to a SOLDIER if they are capable enough mentally and physically to receive a Jenova cell.

Meanwhile, the Turks operate as a specialized covert unit, engaging in espionage, assassination, and other clandestine activities, often handling the more morally ambiguous tasks of the company.

The Shadow of it Former Self

The Wutai War inflicted significant damage on both sides, Shinra and Wutai. During this conflict, Shinra lost a substantial number of 2nd and 3rd Class SOLDIERs, further exacerbated by Sephiroth’s betrayal, the desertion of Genesis and Angeal, and the death of Zack Fair, which left the organization weakened. Additionally, the side effects of Jenova cells caused many SOLDIERs to descend into madness.

As a result, by the time of the events in Final Fantasy VII, the SOLDIER organization was a mere shadow of its former self. The once-elite fighting force struggled to maintain its reputation and effectiveness, relying heavily on a dwindling number of experienced members.

The psychological toll of the war and the subsequent betrayals created an atmosphere of distrust and fear within the ranks, leading to further desertions and a decline in morale.

The loss of key figures like Zack Fair, who had inspired hope and loyalty among his peers, left a void that was difficult to fill. The remaining SOLDIERs faced not only the external threats posed by rebel groups like AVALANCHE but also the internal struggles stemming from their traumatic experiences and the lingering effects of Mako exposure.