Pikachu first appeared in the Pokémon video games released in Japan in 1996 and quickly became the franchise mascot, later starring in the long-running anime series that began in 1997. The character's distinctive high-pitched cry became familiar worldwide through games, television, films and merchandise. As short clips spread on soundboards and social media, Pikachu's voice became a popular reaction sound for cute, happy and surprising moments. It remains widely used because the sound is instantly recognisable, cheerful and closely tied to childhood memories of Pokémon.