Building Bonds: How to Max Out Your Relationship with Aerith for the Gold Saucer Date in Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth

In the expansive world of "Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth," building relationships with group members is key to unlocking unique events and scenes. As one of the series' most beloved characters, Aerith offers players a chance to deepen bonds through various in-game actions and decisions. This guide will explore how to max out your relationship with Aerith, leading to a memorable Gold Saucer date.

Chapter 1: Understanding Relationships

In "Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth," the Bonds of Friendship meter is a new feature that allows players to see how each character feels about Cloud. By improving these bonds, players can unlock special scenes, dialogues, and events. Specifically, with Aerith, the goal is to reach the maximum friendship rank before Chapter 12. This process involves making impactful decisions, completing specific side quests, and participating in events that boost Aerith's relationship meter.

Dialogue Choices

An essential element in boosting your relationship with Aerith is making the right dialogue choices. Throughout the game, there are specific moments where Cloud can respond to Aerith in ways that will either strengthen or weaken their bond. Paying attention to these moments and choosing responses that align with Aerith's feelings and personality is crucial.

Side Quests

Completing side quests that directly involve Aerith is another effective method of improving your relationship. These quests often provide additional context and background on Aerith, offering more opportunities to bond with her. Always make Aerith-focused side quests a priority to ensure you're on the right track.

Chapter 2: Key Moments and Decisions

Kalm Clock Tower Date

In Chapter 2, Aerith initiates a date at Kalm Clock Tower. When she asks Cloud, respond with "Sure. Let's." to set a positive tone for their relationship.

Flowers from the Hill

Another opportunity in Chapter 2 is the side quest "Flowers from the Hill." After speaking with Chloe at Bill's Chocobo Ranch, pick flowers with Aerith to help make a flower crown. This activity enhances your bond by providing a shared, meaningful experience.

Under Junon Inn

Later, in Chapter 4 at Under Junon Inn, Aerith reminisces about old times. When she mentions their first meeting, reply with "You shoved a flower at me." This response not only reflects Cloud’s growing affection but also humorously acknowledges their history.

Junon Parade

Chapter 4 features the Junon Parade, a significant event for hidden relationship points. To maximize the points, find all 10 Midgar Seventh Infantry troops around Junon and perform well in the parade. Scoring at least 100,000 points leads to two awards, boosting bonds with both Aerith and Tifa.

Chapter 3: Hidden Relationship Boosts

Costa del Sol Swimsuits

In Chapter 6 at Costa del Sol, players must match Aerith and Cloud's swimsuit styles to gain relationship points. Choosing the matching, more revealing outfits reveals a boost immediately as they join the rest of the party on the beach.

Beach Battle

Also in Chapter 6, a battle occurs on the beach. Opt to help Aerith and Barret rather than Tifa and Red XIII to gain relationship points for both.

Costa del Sol Beach

Post-battle, Aerith reflects on the chaos, providing another dialogue opportunity. Respond with "They're just thoughts." to show empathy towards her concerns about Hojo.

Chapter 4: Further Adventures and Engagements

Rendezvous in Costa del Sol

This side quest sees Cloud and Aerith on a date in a tropical resort. Help three fashion designers by playing mini-games and searching the beach for shells. Present the biggest shell to Yorda and enjoy a fashion show that enhances the bond between Cloud and Aerith.

Gongaga Village

In Chapter 9, while the dialogue in Gongaga Village doesn’t directly affect the relationship meter, responding with "You're too hard on yourself" to Aerith is the most supportive option.

The Spice of Life

Unlocked by completing the "Teach Me, Great Warrior" quest, "The Spice of Life" involves helping Cissnei gather cooking ingredients. Working together like this strengthens Aerith’s bond with Cloud.

Chapter 5: Final Preparations

Cosmo Canyon

In Chapter 10, Aerith shares her life story during a torch ceremony. Respond with "Encourage her." This shows support, further solidifying your bond.

Absence of a Sign

This side quest requires photographing specific sky phenomena in Cosmo Canyon. Include Aerith in your shots whenever possible to gain more points.

Nibelheim Water Tower

At the water tower in Chapter 11, engage in a reflective conversation with Aerith. Respond with "Sounds like something I’d do." and talk to her again before descending the tower for an extra scene.

Chapter 6: The Big Date

Beneath Still Waters

Completing the "Tides of War and Worry" side quest unlocks "Beneath Still Waters," where helping the Midgar Seventh Infantry defeat a dangerous fiend requires fighting the Hell Rider II twice.

Woodland Vigil

The "Woodland Vigil" quest in Chapter 12 involves scouting areas near Gongaga Village to find and eliminate a Gigantoad fiend. Strong preparation and teamwork with Aerith reinforce the relationship ahead of the Gold Saucer date.

Chapter 7: The Gold Saucer Date

In Chapter 12, after finding Dio and agreeing to his request, the Gold Saucer date is unlocked. Make sure all Aerith-centric side quests are complete before resting at the Haunted Hotel. If you've focused on building your relationship with Aerith, she will be the one to accompany Cloud on this memorable date. While it's not necessary to monitor the friendship meter after this event, keeping a save slot allows you to experience Cloud's dates with other party members, like Tifa.

Expanding the adventure outside of Midgar, "Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth" offers new and exciting ways to explore relationships and deepen bonds. Our guides hub provides all the tips and strategies you need for a fulfilling gameplay experience.