Pros and Cons: Should You Embrace the Starter Pack Trend on Social Media?

Lately, it’s been impossible to ignore. Facebook, Instagram, Threads, X, and even LinkedIn—not to mention traditional media—are flooded with starter packs, figures generated by AI and packaged like retro toys. Indeed, the Ghibli effect was last week’s news, and it was time for a new trend to emerge.

Breaking Down the Latest Craze

Derived from the classic starter pack memes—those collages of typical items meant to epitomize a personality or group—the 2025 versions have been upgraded with AI technology. Now, users can create a personalized action figure styled after themselves, complete with accessories like glasses, headphones, books, pets, chainsaws, or even a swim bag. Anything goes in crafting a stylized version of oneself.

This trend has taken off thanks to tools like ChatGPT or Midjourney, which are capable of generating visuals in just a few seconds (though they can be a bit slow). However, simply asking can you generate a starter pack isn’t enough. Fortunately, some kind souls have shared the magic prompts, which, when paired with a clear photo, do the trick.

Self-Deprecation or Digital Narcissism?

It’s hard to deny the fun of the endeavor. By mimicking the style of collectible toys, users indulge in self-deprecation: Donald Trump as a Ford worker, the math teacher in sweatpants, or my cousin in chic burnout. The geopolitical news is grim, this is light, it’s fun, we share, we like.

But as often happens with social media, the trend quickly borders on egotism. An action figure a day, sponsored posts, companies seeing it as a marketing opportunity… The starter pack craze also prompts a reflection on self-obsession in the digital age, all under the guise of following a trend.

Buzz and Environmental Impact

What’s often overlooked is that generating an image through AI consumes more resources than simply scrolling through your feed. According to some researchers, one AI-generated image equates to the energy used to fully charge a smartphone. This not-so-small detail is particularly glaring in an era when digital restraint is touted for just about everything.

Another concern is how easily these images can be manipulated for political or satirical purposes. On X, some alterations targeting public figures quickly went viral, sparking controversies just as intense.

Lastly, like the works of Studio Ghibli, these physical starter packs are normally the product of real people’s labor, who also find themselves shortchanged by this trend. As a result, we’re seeing some posts in opposition to this fad!

Some are concerned about the growing trend of brands, companies, or personalities turning to artificial intelligence to create content. Where not long ago they would have employed artists, photographers, communicators, or marketing professionals. Many illustrators are noticing with trepidation a decrease in their contracts, thus increasing the risks to their livelihood.

While they remain in good humor, these creations continue the long line of viral memes—with a touch of AI for added flair. The starter packs capture a moment—maybe just a week or a few days—before another trend takes its place.