[JapanUrbanLegend] Hidden message of "Erika and Satoru's Dream Adventure"
"Erika and Satoru's Dream Adventure" (えりかとさとるのゆめぼうけん) is a family computer game software released by Namco (now Bandai Namco Entertainment) on September 27, 1988. The genre is adventure, and it is also the 44th title in the "Namco Family Computer Game Series."
The story follows twin siblings "Erika" and "Satoru" as they embark on an adventure in a mystical world inhabited by animals to find the "Crown of Time." What makes this game unique is that, despite being an adventure game, it allows for two-player simultaneous play. The system, including the icon-based command selection and map screen, was partly influenced by the system used in the previous year's release by the same company, "Sanma no Meitantei."
As an adventure game with two-player simultaneous play, it features various mechanisms. The map is divided into two windows, and players explore and investigate points like houses or facilities. Only the player who enters a point can switch to a close-up screen, allowing them to interact at that location. However, the character left on the map can still move while the other character is engaged in the close-up, allowing them to either join up or act separately. (Note that both players cannot focus on different locations simultaneously.)
Items and flags acquired can be used by either "Erika" or "Satoru" as soon as they are obtained, and, aside from some events, there are no restrictions on which character can progress. Additionally, "Erika" has a set character trait where, when swimming in the sea, if she is left without input for a while, she will drown, becoming inactive until "Satoru" comes to rescue her. This mechanic exists outside of the main story events. Mini-games within the game include quizzes for one-player mode and simultaneous two-player sub-games. Some mini-games are story-related, and the players are automatically assigned for the two-player mode.
In 2004, a user analyzing the game discovered hidden music data, which led to the revelation of how to access a hidden message. This message was written by the developer "Hidemushi" and contains complaints, swearing, and expressions of gratitude toward colleagues he disliked or was thankful to. The harsh message, filled with profanities and personal references to development staff, reveals Hidemushi's grievances toward his co-workers. In 2012, a new hidden message was found.
How to View the Hidden Message:
After the ending credits, when "おしまい" (The End) appears on the screen, wait for 18 minutes. The screen will then turn to black-and-white.
Wait another 18 minutes, and the screen will change to a sepia tone.
After waiting an additional 55 minutes, the BGM will stop. At this point, by pressing specific commands, you can view the hidden message.
For Player 1, press ← + Start + Select + A + B buttons. For Player 2, press → + A + B buttons at the same time.
When the music changes, Player 1 should press → + Select + B, and Player 2 should press ↘ + B simultaneously.
Original Message:
Hmm, the nostalgic song is playing, isn’t it? Those were good times.
Everyone was professional back then.
……
But compared to this batch, what are they like?
They’re done already? “Everything was a good memory”?
Don’t make me laugh! Here’s where I’ll say my thanks.
First, Ogura Kaoru, who ran away with a guy during development, it’s you! Don’t come to work without showering after doing XXXX six times the night before.
Next, Ohmachi Tatsuya, it’s you! Don’t smile and work.
On the day the ROM was submitted, you shamelessly showed up late. I won’t forgive you for giving me that dirty book anymore. You’re just getting fat.
Then there’s Namco’s debugger, Takano Kenji, don’t challenge the planning as part-timer.
And now, the person who was the biggest disturbance, Koto Kiyoharu. It’s you!
If I ever get a time machine, you’ll be the first to go to the Edo period. Stay there and solve riddles. Ah, this doesn't feel refreshing.
Koto Kiyoharu, it’s you! Ah, just disappear!
But I did have people to thank…
Okada-san, who took only the good things. I know about your strange fetishes.
Yamasaki-kun, who restrained himself until the game was complete. Go ahead and enjoy yourself.
Iwatakun, who joined in and worked hard. Sorry for shouting. Keep doing your best in the future.
Fujimura Udope, who had the hardest time. Thank you so much. The one to blame is Koto.
And also, Takayama, Kudo, Suzuki, Makki, Kaneko, Aihara,
The angel of my heart, Sato-chan, and Ika-kun.
Everyone… Thank you.
Yoko G, great work.
I dedicate this game to my wife’s birthday.
Kazumushi, I’m sorry I can’t go home often.
I love you. I’ve loved you for a very long time.
Hidemushi
