So, as I’m sure some of you know and well, others probably don’t, I am heavily and deeply inspired by Japanese storytelling. This includes anything from manga, anime and even certain video games (mainly the Final Fantasy Franchise, but there are also a few others). 

A long time ago, when I was 13 years old, I got a copy of Final Fantasy VII, Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater and Playstation One for my birthday. I think it was that day that really steered my life, as after skateboarding I went straight to surfing for a good 8 years, which eventually lead me into rock climbing, which is my current obsession/passion/everything. 

But even more influential in my life than the Tony Hawk’s PS, was the FFVII game. The story of Cloud and crew going out into the world to stop the evil Shinra corporation from destroying the planet really stuck with me. I mean, there’s gotta be a place of interest my pseudonym came from right? 

And after 18 years, SE finally decided to do a full remake of the game. I literally teared up when I saw the original release at E3, and it became very apparent to me in that moment how much of  an impact FFVII has had on my life. So here’s to the legacy of Cloud, Barrett, Tifa, Cid, Yuffie, Vincent, Cait Sith, Nanaki and Sephiroth. Without you guys, my childhood would have been a bland blend of homework, sneaking out, and partying. So thanks ^^/