Introduction

The Pig meme from the Barnyard video game features a pig sending a text message that reads, "I want to see you. I'm in the barnyard." This image has evolved into a popular reaction meme, often interpreted as a humorous romantic proposition.

Background

The meme originates from the 2006 Barnyard video game, where players receive text messages from various barnyard animals inviting them to meet. The specific image of the pig became popular in February 2020, when users began sharing it in a humorous context, framing it as a romantic message.

How It Began

On February 24th, 2020, Twitter user @gloomygalleon shared a collection of messages from the game, including the notable text from a contact named "Pig," stating, "I want to see you. I'm in the barnyard." This post quickly gained traction, earning over 400 likes. Later that day, another user, @RyanRibbity, reposted the image with a caption praising the game, which garnered more than 9,500 likes.

Internet Reaction

Following its initial popularity, the meme continued to spread across social media. On July 13th, 2021, user @dragon_scim referenced it in relation to the game Nickelodeon All-Star Brawl, receiving over 14,000 likes. On May 11th, 2022, streamer @eddyburback also used the image in a meme, which garnered over 7,300 likes. The image peaked again on August 17th, 2023, when Instagram user child_services_ posted it, amassing over 62,000 likes in just six months. Additionally, on February 19th, 2024, user @rats7 shared a painting inspired by the meme, receiving 47,000 likes in a single day.