The phrase 'It's Super Effective!' originated from the Pokémon video game series, first appearing in the 1996 release of Pokémon Red and Blue. In the games, the text displays when a player uses a move that has a type advantage over an opponent, dealing significantly more damage. As a meme, it is used to describe real-life situations where an action, comment, or strategy works exceptionally well—often better than expected. It became a staple of internet culture in the mid-2000s, frequently paired with photos of animals, social interactions, or clever life hacks to signify a 'critical hit' or a perfect success in a relatable, nostalgic way.