The Mortal Kombat meme phenomenon draws from the legendary fighting game franchise that first debuted in 1992. Characterized by its brutal 'Fatality' finishing moves and the iconic 'Choose Your Fighter' selection screen, the series has provided endless templates for internet humor. The most popular variations involve using the selection grid to compare absurd life choices or using the 'Finish Him' prompt to describe a decisive social media comeback. These memes capitalize on the intense nostalgia of 90s arcade culture and the series' over-the-top dramatic presentation to highlight real-world conflicts, competition, and cultural rivalries.