In 1991, the gaming world experienced a revolutionary shift with the release of Street Fighter 2, a title that redefined competitive fighting games. Former Capcom employee Yoshiki Okamoto revealed that the team sought to establish an entirely new genre, aiming to eradicate previous limitations in gaming.

The game quickly became a cultural phenomenon, selling over 14 million units and captivating players worldwide. Okamoto believed in crafting the “greatest game ever,” demonstrating exceptional foresight and ambition in pursuing this innovative vision.

His dedication caught the attention of Capcom’s leadership, who offered him an impressive salary to stay, highlighting the impact of his work. Had Okamoto and his talented team not persevered through challenges, the landscape of fighting games today might have been drastically different.

Street Fighter 2’s legacy not only set a high bar for future titles but also solidified its place as a cornerstone of the competitive gaming community, inspiring countless players and developers globally.