Drakur
Ex-Soldier
Though very true for final stats, I like to view it in terms of getting to that point. Cloud, Tifa, and Barret are great for getting to the point you can start the massive grind, in my opinion. I mean, damage is great and all, but at the end game it barely matters anymore. If one character gets two more hits at 9999 or not, the end battles are a cakewalk regardless. The weapons are really the only challenge (I spent three days grinding to prepare for the final battle...I was little disappointed...). But in all seriousness, Cait Sith was insanely annoying in my opinion.