Espurr debuted in Pokémon X and Y in 2013 as a Generation VI psychic-type Pokémon, and later appeared in the Pokémon anime where voice actors gave it this soft spoken cry distinct from the games' synthesized call. Clips of cute Pokémon cries circulated widely on soundboards and in anime edits, and Espurr gained extra attention for its intense, unblinking stare becoming a meme. The short cry remains popular because it is recognisable, gentle and versatile, fitting both sincere cute posts and ironic reaction videos.