The Meme that Refuses to Die: 1+1=11 and Baldi's Basics
If you're an active user of the internet, chances are you've stumbled upon the infamous "1+1=11" meme at some point. But what's the story behind this absurd mathematical equation, and how did it become entwined with Baldi's Basics, a surreal educational horror game?
The Origins of the Meme
The "1+1=11" meme is believed to have originated on social media platforms like Twitter and Reddit around 2018. It started as a joke, with people posting images of incorrect math problems with the caption "1+1=11." The meme was likely a commentary on the increasing misinformation and manipulation of facts online.
Enter Baldi's Basics
Baldi's Basics is a free indie game created by Micah McGonigal, released in 2018. The game is set in a fictional elementary school, where players take on the role of a student trying to escape the wrath of Baldi, a terrifying teacher who punishes incorrect math answers with brutal force.
The Unlikely Union
As the "1+1=11" meme started gaining traction, gamers and meme enthusiasts noticed a strange connection between the two. Baldi's Basics was already a surreal and humorous game, and the "1+1=11" meme fit perfectly into its absurd universe. The game's creator, Micah McGonigal, even acknowledged the meme and incorporated it into the game as an Easter egg.
The Rise of the Meme
As the "1+1=11" meme spread, so did its association with Baldi's Basics. Memes started popping up everywhere, featuring Baldi, the game's antagonist, as the embodiment of mathematical chaos. Players and non-players alike started creating their own fan art, cosplay, and even music inspired by the meme.
Impact and Legacy
The "1+1=11" meme has become a cultural phenomenon, symbolizing the internet's propensity for absurdity and humor. It has also brought attention to Baldi's Basics, which has gained a cult following and inspired a community of creators.
Conclusion
The "1+1=11" meme and Baldi's Basics have formed an unlikely union, bringing joy and laughter to countless internet users. As a testament to the internet's power to create and perpetuate memes, this absurd mathematical equation has become an enduring symbol of internet culture.
