This sound is associated with PUBG, the battle royale game that became widely popular after its 2017 rise on PC and mobile. Short clips of nearby shots spread in gaming edits and meme compilations because players instantly recognize the danger cue. Online, it is often used beyond PUBG footage to represent being under pressure, getting caught off guard, or entering a chaotic situation. Its staying power comes from how quickly the audio communicates threat, even with no visuals or dialogue.