Metal Slug is a long-running arcade run-and-gun series known for its hand-drawn sprites, chaotic action and exaggerated weapons, and the rocket launcher is one of its most memorable power-ups. Sounds like this one circulated through gaming soundboards and video edits as creators reused classic arcade effects for memes, montages and reaction clips. It remains popular because the effect is short, loud and immediately readable, even without any visual context, making it a reliable shorthand for sudden destruction in short-form video.