Pikachu, the yellow electric mouse mascot of Pokémon, first appeared in the Pokémon video games in 1996 and became a global star through the anime series that followed in 1997. Because Pikachu speaks almost entirely by repeating variations of its own name, phrases like pika pika pika chuu became instantly recognisable shorthand for the character. Short clips of its voice spread through anime edits, gaming videos and meme compilations online, where creators reuse it as a cute, nostalgic reaction sound. Its simplicity and warmth keep it popular with both longtime fans and new viewers.