The 'Assuming Control' meme is rooted in the 2010 action-RPG Mass Effect 2, specifically referencing the primary antagonist, Harbinger. During combat, Harbinger frequently possesses a minion on the battlefield, accompanied by a screen-shaking effect and the deep, modulated voice line: 'Assuming direct control.' This phrase quickly became a gaming cult classic, used to describe any situation where a person, entity, or even an object suddenly takes over or exerts dominant influence. On the internet, it is frequently paired with images of animals or people whose eyes are glowing, mimicking the visual cue of a possessed Collector from the game.