10 Pre-Internet Video Game Secrets Everyone Fell For

During the early '90s, Street Fighter II reigned supreme in the arcades and across all consoles. However, Capcom's prized title is also renowned for creating one of the greatest hoaxes in gaming. 

When Ryu defeats his opponent in Street Fighter II: The World Warrior, his victory quote reads, "You must defeat Sheng Long to stand a chance". Although the phrase "Sheng Long" is a mistranslation of Ryu's Dragon Punch attack, players assumed he was referring to a hidden fighter. 

Just to add gas to the fire, Electronic Gaming Monthly released an article and a doctored screenshot on April Fool's Day, indicating that Sheng Long would serve as the final boss if certain criteria was met. 

Even though the article stated Sheng Long's birthday was April 1st, the joke went over many readers' heads. Soon after, publishers across America, Europe, and Hong Kong reprinted the Sheng Long article, strengthening the hoax.

EGM fabricated the same Sheng Long story for Street Fighter III, promising it was true this time. (It wasn't.) Artwork was devised for Sheng Long's so-called debut in Street Fighter IV, with the word "USO" written under his name (which is Japanese for "lying"). 

Fortunately, this prank does have a happy ending. Sheng Long was the inspiration for Akuma, who served as a secret boss in Super Street Fighter II. Even though Akuma could've made a one-off appearance, he's become a regular in the franchise and one of the most popular characters in gaming. Also, Gouken from Ultra Street Fighter IV was heavily based on Sheng Long's supposed appearance and backstory.

With the benefit of hindsight, it's fascinating how the persistent rumours surrounding Sheng Long led to the creation of two iconic Street Fighter characters.