The name Cid is synonymous with the Final Fantasy series, a comforting constant in its ever-evolving worlds. For decades, players have come to expect a new iteration of this iconic character, often an engineer, airship pilot, or wise mentor, playing a pivotal role in the unfolding saga. But just how ubiquitous is Cid, and how long does it typically take for our heroes to cross paths with them?
From helpful mechanics to formidable antagonists, each Cid brings a unique flavour to their respective game. Interestingly, the very first Final Fantasy famously lacks a named Cid, though one was introduced, a Cid known as ‘Cid of the Lufaine’, in the Final Fantasy: Dawn of Souls remake as its retrospective representative.
We mention Cid of the Lufaine to avoid you ‘Um, Actually’-ers in the comments below! We know! We know!
1Final Fantasy 2
This Cid is the first named ‘Cid’ in the series and appears relatively early on, operating an airship as a transport service that becomes vital to the story. He’s a mercenary and trusted ally to the main characters.
Time-To-Cid Estimation: 1-2 hours
2Final Fantasy 3
Cid Haze is an eccentric inventor from the town of Canaan; you meet him fairly early when he helps you acquire an airship to progress through the world map. He even temporarily joins your party, but this doesn’t last long.
Time-To-Cid Estimation: 2-3 hours
3Final Fantasy 4
Cid Pollendina is the chief engineer of Baron and one of theearliest playable Cidsin the series, joining your party as a loyal ally to Cecil. You’ll meet him in Baron Castle relatively early in the game, and he’s a powerhouse when he joins.
4Final Fantasy 5
FF5’s Cid is introduced early in the game as the researcher responsible for the crystal amplification devices, and he (and his grandson, Mid) becomes a key player in the story. You’ll eventually meet them once you reach Karnak, after dealing with the second crystal of the game.
Together, they become responsible for many of your transportation upgrades and point you in the right direction during late stages of the first part of the game.
5Final Fantasy 6
Cid Del Norte Marguez is the chief scientist for the Gestahlian Empire and a surrogate father figure to Celes.
You properly encounter him during the World of Ruin section, a significant chunk into the game, as Celes tries to nurse him back to health.
Time-To-Cid Estimation: 15-20 hours
6Final Fantasy 7
Cid Highwind is a chain-smoking, foul-mouthed pilot and one of the last party members to join Cloud’s team; you encounter him in Rocket Town a good way into the first disc.
Time-To-Cid Estimation: 10-15 hours
7Final Fantasy 8
Cid Kramer is the founder and headmaster of Balamb Garden, a military academy; you meet him right at the beginning of the game as he’s the one who establishes your initial missions after your first operation at the Fire Cavern.
Time-To-Cid Estimation: 15-30 minutes
8Final Fantasy 9
Cid Fabool IX is the regent of Lindblum,transformed into an Oglop(and later a frog!) due to his infidelity; you’ll first hear about him, but then encounter him in Lindblum quite early in the story - as soon as you leave Dali, escaping the Black Waltzes.
Time-To-Cid Estimation: 2-3 hours
9Final Fantasy 10
FF10’s Cid is the leader of the Al Bhed, Rikku’s father, and Yuna’s uncle; he’s first properly introduced when you arrive at the Home, which occurs around the midpoint of the game.
He doesn’t play a big role in this game, but he’s important thanks to his contribution of an airship!
10Final Fantasy 11
Cid is the chief engineer of the San d’Oria Royal Knights and a key NPC in the nation of Bastok; as a central figure in Bastok’s storyline, players starting there will encounter him relatively early as part of their national quests. Otherwise, it’ll take a dedicated trek to find him.
Kind of a low-key entry in the roster of Cids, huh?
Time-To-Cid Estimation: Very quickly or 3-5 hours, depending on where you start
