The 'Real Yakuza Use a Gamepad' meme originates from the PC ports of the Yakuza video game series, specifically appearing as a disclaimer screen when the game is launched. It features a message from the developers suggesting that the best way to experience the action is with a controller rather than a keyboard and mouse. The internet quickly turned this earnest advice into a versatile meme format used to playfully gatekeep or satirize specific preferences across various hobbies and subcultures. By replacing 'Yakuza' or 'Gamepad' with different subjects, users can create authoritative and often absurd declarations about what constitutes a 'real' fan or the 'proper' way to enjoy certain media.