Shantae, the titular protagonist of the series created by WayForward's Matt and Erin Bozon, has evolved from a late-cycle Game Boy Color gem into an indie gaming superstar. Memes featuring Shantae often highlight her energetic 'Ret-2-Go!' catchphrase, her expressive transformations, or her iconic belly dancing animations used to perform magic. Within the gaming community, she is frequently the subject of 'Shantae for Smash' memes and fan-driven campaigns to celebrate the series' unique charm and metroidvania gameplay. Her bright, colorful aesthetic and optimistic personality make her a versatile template for everything from wholesome gaming moments to energetic reaction images.