Sonic.exe is a fan-made horror reinterpretation of Sonic the Hedgehog that spread through creepypasta stories, fan games and gameplay videos, where the familiar blue hedgehog becomes a threatening presence. Sounds taken from those games circulate on soundboards because they instantly signal that shift from playful to menacing. This laser effect is popular for the same reason as a horror game jump scare, giving editors a short, recognisable cue for a villain powering up without needing any dialogue or explanation.