In which game did the character Sakura first appear?

Sakura first appeared in Street Fighter Alpha 2.

Released in arcades in 1996, Street Fighter Alpha 2 introduced Sakura Kasugano as a Japanese high-school student and enthusiastic admirer of Ryu. In the game’s story, she becomes interested in martial arts after watching Ryu win the first World Warrior tournament. She then searches for him, hoping that he will train her and help her become a stronger fighter.

Sakura was designed as a youthful contrast to Street Fighter’s more traditionally serious martial artists. Her school uniform, energetic personality, and admiration for Ryu made her stand out immediately from the established cast. Although she is inspired by Ryu’s Shotokan-style techniques, she developed her own moves and a playful, aggressive fighting style.

She returned in Street Fighter Alpha 3 and later became a regular in the wider series, appearing in Street Fighter IV, Street Fighter V, Street Fighter 6, and numerous crossover games. Her first appearance was not Street Fighter II, even though her story is closely connected to events from that game.