Megan Thee Stallion’s latest music video for “Boa” was released this Friday, leaving anime and video game fans rejoicing with the many references made by the Hot Nerd boss herself.
The video begins with three friends sitting down to play a 2D-style Jumanji-style video game, before they discover that their death in the game will simulate their unfortunate fortune in real life. Their death, of course, is delivered by Megan, wearing costumes inspired by One piece It is Tekken characters while punching and kicking players as if she were part of the classic beat’em up games that became popular in the 90s.
The video’s concept shouldn’t be surprising. The Grammy-winning rapper is known for being an anime enthusiast, even handing out a prize at the 2024 Crunchyroll Anime Awards in March. Megan, also known as Tina Snow, has also cosplayed as My Hero AcademyMirko It is Bruno Bucciarati in JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure.
Fans also noticed that the song’s title, “Boa,” fits in with its snake racing theme, with its other two singles being “Cobra” and “Hiss.” Serpents often symbolize a cunning and cunning nature, but in the context of this new age, they can also represent renewal due to the way the creature sheds its skin. The name also recalls “Pirate Empress” Boa Hancock, a character from the anime series One piecewhich Megan cosplays in the single’s cover art and video.
Here is a running list of the references.
One Piece and Mortal Kombat
Meg’s hairstyle and serpent scepter as her weapon of choice are all a reference to One pieceGood Hancock. The anime character is typically seen with Salomé, a large white snake with a skull, beside her. Her outfit, however, can also be inspired by Mortal combatMileena is based on the boots and costume.
Scott Pilgrim against the world
The music video bears striking similarities to the comic book series turned film Scott Pilgrim vs. the World, which follows protagonist Scott Pilgrim, who has to fight his girlfriend’s seven evil ex-boyfriends. Pilgrim fight scenes in the film they are poignant, dramatic and full of exaggerated animation and lighting, just like Megan’s.
Gwen Stefani
The song also includes a sample of Gwen Stefani’s 2004 “What You Waiting For?”. The ‘tik-tok’ Stefani sings in her original hit can be heard in the background of Megan’s new song.
Christie from Tekken
Meg also apparently referenced Christie Monteiro from the Tekken video game series, wearing a similar metallic gold top and leather pants with leg warmers, although her bottoms feature a snake print. The print could be set to match the snake theme or in reference to Bryan Fury, also from Tekken, fans speculate.
Dance Dance Revolution
Meg also capitalizes on the nostalgia factor with a significant portion of her video set in a scene featuring Dance Dance Revolution pieces, in reference to the classic arcade dance game. Arrows are placed on top of light neon colored squares.
Space Channel 5
Many online users have noticed that Meg’s outfits and background are also inspired by Space Channel 5with Meg’s pink wig and braids bearing mostly resemblance to Ulala, who fights aliens with dance moves.
Squidward face meme
Some users also pointed out to the iconic scene where Meg literally crushed a player to death by sitting face down as being similar to a popular Sponge Bob Square Pants scene with Squidward.
This story originally appeared on Time.com read the full story
