Akuma, known as Gouki in the Japanese version, is a popular fighter in the Street Fighter series.
Originally appearing in Street Fighter II Turbo as a secret character and hidden boss, He is Gouken's younger brother and Ryu's adoptive uncle. He has red hair, wears prayer beads around his neck, and wears a black gi (occasionally displayed as blue in artwork). The kanji 'Ten' (天) - meaning "sky", "heaven", or "providence" - can be seen on his back when it appears during certain victory poses.
A morally complex character, Akuma helds the belief that an evil energy known as Satsui no Hado ("Surge of murderous intent") is necessary to unlock one's true potential. Proclaiming himself to be "The Master of the Fist", Akuma travels around the world to find a worthy opponent and kill them in a fight to prove his strength.
While he seems to have no remorse in killing anyone (viewing them as weaker opponents who are "worthy" enough to be killed by him), he is easily offended when someone tries to harm helpless people (especially children) and will not hesitate to kill the attacker. He is also known to hold back his power when his opponent is not "ready" for the fight, such as against an inexperienced Sakura or a terminally ill Gen.
