I also thought that Sephiroth was going to become a playable character, and for the exact same reasons. It didn't take me all too long to figure it out though.

And, like most FFVII fanboys and fangirls, I hoped, prayed, and believed with all my heart that there would be some sort of Aeris resurrection. Once I beat it though, and played through again with internet guides, I knew to ignore all the rumors. After all, it just wouldn't sit right with the plot. Something that big would have to be some sort of cheat, not just a different ending.

I fell into mass confusion when it came to the plot the first few go's at it. I still struggle with it at least a little. But, when I found out that Square released a book just to clear up the confusion, I didn't feel so dumb anymore.

So I guess I was crazy to think Aeris was Jenova and evil, but stranger twists have happened in Video games. I think I was expecting VII to some how end up like chrono trigger (tell me Sephiroth and his obssession doesn't remind of dear old Magus).