Cross-Slash is Cloud Strife's level 1 limit break in Final Fantasy VII Rebirth. It is a physical attack that hits enemies for significant damage, and as a limit break, requires no ATB to use.
Cross-Slash consists of a lunge forward and three slices of Cloud's sword, forming an ominous symbol (the kanji for "bad luck" or "evil/wicked" 凶). Each slice deals separate damage, though the last deals over twice that of the first two.
The ability is Cloud's level 1 limit break, below Ascension at limit level 2, which is also a physical attack but one that deals more damage. When limit level 3 is unlocked via folio, Cloud unlocks Finishing Touch, another physical attack dealing more damage and over a wider area.
Cross-Slash returns from Final Fantasy VII Remake, which in turn returns from Final Fantasy VII, where Cross-slash was Cloud's second limit break.
Mechanics[]
Cross-Slash comprises three hits, though the third hit is the strongest. The first two hits have smaller attack damage, while the third deals significant damage.
Use[]
Cross-Slash deals strong physical damage to a single target and damages nearby enemies. As a physical attack, its damage is based on Cloud's 
Attack Power.
When using a limit break, no ATB charge is expended, and Cloud is invulnerable during its animation. There is no penalty to using it except that some enemies can dodge it, become resistant to physical damage, or become entirely immune through 
Shield.
The ability can be used in a variety of ways: dealing more damage to staggered enemies, finishing off bosses, or simply using it to temporarily become immune. Against bosses who take little damage outside of stagger, it is best to wait, whereas against bosses who have a devastating attack ready, using it to grant temporary invulnerability can be ideal.
A number of accessories can help Cloud use Cross-Slash more often. Additionally, 
Limit Siphon Materia can be used to fill Cloud's limit gauge when needed.
When Cloud uses synergy abilities or accessories to boost his limit level, the only reason to use Cross-Slash over Ascension or Finishing Touch is because of its shorter animation time. Beyond this, both are upgrades on Cross-Slash.
3D Brawler minigame[]
Cloud can perform Cross-Slash in the 3D Brawler minigame at the Gold Saucer.