Waifu Effect 

The Waifu Effect describes a phenomenon in which a fictional work or character gains popularity solely by containing what many people consider to be "waifu-material"(see "Waifu" entry for more info). The work in question often becomes famous for such, and the Waifu Effect can often (but not always) overshadow other elements, whether intentionally or unintentionally. Many shows/media intentionally exploit this phenomenon in order to market their products, which can also be used to hide negative qualities.

The Waifu effect is particularly noticeable within the fanart community, as it can shoot characters/works into the spotlight through the Waifu effect alone. In order for a work to benefit from the Waifu effect, the characters must be diverse and varied. They must have enough of a background to give artists a jumping-off point, but be open enough so that artists have enough wiggle room to insert their own creativity into it. Some big examples that exhibit the Waifu Effect phenomenon are Kantai Collection and Touhou Project.

Overwatch fan: Man, have you been seeing all the amazing Overwatch fanart from Japan artists lately?

JRPG enthusiast: That's unexpected, I thought that Japan didn't really like FPS games. Why would a western FPS like Overwatch ever be popular there?

Overwatch fan: Nah, it's the Waifu Effect, I'm tellin' ya. Put enough attractive and diverse female characters into your work and artists/social media are bound to jump on that shit.

Waifu Effect by schoolbomb February 1, 2018