Its because everyone that isnt happy and problem free nowadays is considered "emo"... No really, I can identify myself with Squall a lot of times actually.. Hes cold, SO WHAT? SO ARE NORMAL PEOPLE, does that make him emo? Nope, it makes him just another guy who doesnt care so much about others (until Rinoa comes along)

As for the Cloud and Sephiroth thing.. I honestly think its sort of a "evanescence" effect.. this consists of something being hated because its popular.. and people outright say it sucks because others said so too

I have to go with the "if you cant understand them, go away and dont play the game"