Springs have been a core level gimmick since the original Sonic the Hedgehog on the Sega Genesis in 1991, placed on the ground and walls to redirect Sonic at speed. The spring sound became part of the series audio identity alongside rings and spin dashes, returning in sequels, remakes and fan games. Online, creators lift the isolated effect for memes, animations and game development, using it as shorthand for a bounce without needing any footage from the games themselves.