10 Hidden Video Game Images You Weren't Supposed To See

7. Secret Sound Test Screen - Sonic CD (1993)

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Sega

If you're fan of creepy video game easter eggs, you'll no doubt have come across this one already. Rest assured, in twenty-eight years, this utterly ludicrous phenomenon is still just as elusive as it is unsettling.

Nowadays, 1993's Sonic CD seems to be (unfairly) remembered mainly for its hidden extra content. The fact that Sonic buggers off and slaps you with a game over after three minutes of inactivity helped to cement his antsy and obstreperous nature he is known for today.

From there, though, the secrets only get darker and weirder. The first step to this secret screen is to key in the combination 'Down, Down, Down, Left, Right, A' in the main menu.

After that, navigate yourself to the sound test menu and set the three values respectively to 46, 12 and 25. Press start, and sit back for the most unexpected fright of your life.

Against a black screen is a tiled sprite of Sonic like we've never seen him before. His face is warped and almost human-like, and judging by the size of his pupils, he's seems to have gotten into Snoop Dogg's secret stash.

Not creepy enough? Try the sickening dissonant music, or the strange Japanese text translating as "Infinite fun".

I'm sure the developers never thought anyone would find this harrowing display. But if they did, and their intention was to creep us out, then congratulations, it worked.

Contributor

Graduate composer, on-and-off session musician, aspiring novelist, professional nerd. Where procrastination and cynicism intertwine, Lee Clarke can be found.