Rotom was introduced in Pokémon Diamond and Pearl, the Generation IV games released in 2006 in Japan, as a rare Electric and Ghost type found in the Old Chateau. Known for possessing household appliances and changing form, Rotom later gained forms based on a washing machine, fridge, oven, fan and mower. Its distinctive cry has carried through later mainline games, remakes and animated appearances, becoming the sound fans associate with the character. Online, creators reuse the clip as a shorthand for haunted electronics and playful Pokémon references.