Top 10 Hidden Gems in Everyday Software

Published September 25, 2025

In the world of software development, hidden gems—often referred to as Easter eggs—are delightful surprises tucked away by programmers to reward the curious user. These can range from playful animations and mini-games to secret messages or undocumented features that add a layer of fun to otherwise utilitarian tools. The tradition dates back decades, with developers embedding these nods to pop culture, inside jokes, or even tributes to their teams. One classic example is the 3D "game" hidden in Microsoft Excel 97, a rudimentary flight simulator that turned a spreadsheet program into a virtual skies adventure. While some of these gems have been removed in modern updates for security or performance reasons, many persist, waiting to be discovered in the apps and operating systems we use daily. In this article, we'll uncover 10 of the best hidden gems in everyday software, exploring their origins, how to access them, and why they remain charming relics of tech creativity. Whether you're a productivity pro or a casual browser, these secrets remind us that software can be more than just functional—it can be whimsical.

1. Microsoft Excel 97's Flight Simulator

Perhaps the most legendary hidden gem in office software is the flight simulator buried deep within Microsoft Excel 97. This Easter egg transforms the spreadsheet application into a surreal 3D flying experience, complete with rolling hills, a purple landscape, and even a monolith displaying developer credits, reminiscent of 2001: A Space Odyssey. It was created by a small team of Microsoft developers as a fun side project, showcasing the capabilities of Excel's charting engine at the time. Though it's no longer available in modern versions of Excel due to code updates and security concerns, enthusiasts have preserved it through emulations and ports.

To access it in the original Excel 97: Open a new worksheet, press F5 to open the Go To dialog, type "X97:L97" and hit Enter. Then, press Tab to select cell WC97, hold Ctrl + Shift, and click the Chart Wizard button on the toolbar. Suddenly, you're piloting a virtual aircraft using keyboard controls—arrow keys for direction, Page Up/Down for speed. The simulator includes foggy mountains and a scrolling list of names, adding a personal touch from the creators. This gem highlights how developers in the '90s pushed boundaries, blending work tools with entertainment. It's a testament to the era's experimental spirit, and while you might need vintage software or online recreations to try it today, it remains an iconic piece of tech folklore.

2. Google Search's "Do a Barrel Roll"

Google is notorious for embedding playful Easter eggs in its search engine, and "Do a Barrel Roll" is one of the most entertaining. Inspired by the classic Star Fox video game command, this feature causes the entire search results page to perform a 360-degree spin, mimicking an aerial maneuver. It was introduced around 2011 as part of Google's tradition of lighthearted surprises, designed by engineers to delight users and showcase HTML5 capabilities. The egg doesn't alter functionality but adds a momentary wow factor, encouraging shares on social media.

Accessing it is simple: Just type "do a barrel roll" into the Google search bar and hit Enter. The page rotates smoothly before settling back. For added fun, try "z or r twice" for the same effect, nodding to the game's controls. This gem exemplifies Google's playful corporate culture, where innovation meets humor. It's still active in 2025, working on desktop and mobile browsers, and serves as a reminder that even the most serious search tool can have a sense of whimsy. Over the years, it has spawned countless memes and remains a go-to for tech demos or pranks.

3. Google Chrome's Dinosaur Game

When your internet connection fails, Google Chrome reveals one of its most beloved hidden gems: the offline Dinosaur Game, also known as T-Rex Runner. This endless runner mini-game features a pixelated Tyrannosaurus Rex dodging cacti and pterodactyls in a desert landscape. Created in 2014 by Chrome's design team, it was meant to entertain users during downtime, turning frustration into fun. The game draws inspiration from prehistoric themes and Chrome's "no internet" error page, with increasing speed and night mode for added challenge.

To play, disconnect from the internet (or type "chrome://dino" in the address bar), and tap the spacebar on the error screen to start. Use spacebar to jump and down arrow to duck. High scores are saved locally, and it's endlessly replayable. This feature has become a cultural phenomenon, with speedruns and mods available online. In everyday browsing, it's a practical gem that makes outages bearable, reflecting thoughtful user experience design. As of 2025, it's still built-in, proving that simple ideas can have lasting impact.

4. Android's Version-Specific Easter Eggs

Android operating systems hide a series of interactive Easter eggs tied to each version's codename, offering animations and mini-games that celebrate the OS's dessert-themed history (though Google shifted away from sweets post-Pie). These gems, starting from Gingerbread in 2010, provide a fun way to explore system info. For instance, Android 5.0 Lollipop features a Flappy Bird clone, while later versions like Oreo show an octopus you can drag around.

Access them via Settings > About Phone > tap repeatedly on "Android Version." A themed graphic appears—tap or long-press for interactivity. In Android 12 and beyond, it ties into Material You design with color-matching widgets. Developed by Google's engineers as morale boosters, these eggs foster user engagement. They're perfect for everyday phone users discovering hidden depths in their devices. Even in 2025, with Android 16, the tradition continues, blending nostalgia with modern UI elements for a personalized touch.

5. macOS Terminal's Hidden Tetris

Deep in macOS (formerly OS X), the Terminal app conceals a classic game of Tetris, accessible through the built-in Emacs text editor. This Easter egg leverages Unix roots, allowing users to play the iconic block-stacking game without leaving the command line. Introduced in early macOS versions, it's a nod to developer tools and retro gaming, hidden for power users who tinker with code.To launch: Open Terminal (Applications > Utilities), type "emacs" and press Return. Then, press Esc + X, type "tetris," and hit Return. Use arrow keys to move blocks and space to rotate. The monochrome interface adds vintage charm. This gem highlights macOS's flexibility, turning a utility into entertainment. It's still functional in macOS Sonoma (2025), appealing to programmers and casual explorers alike, and encourages learning basic commands while having fun.

6. Mozilla Firefox's "about:robots"

Firefox browser hides a humorous page dedicated to robots, parodying sci-fi tropes like The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy. Titled "Gort! Klaatu barada nikto!", it lists robotic "facts" such as robots not harming humans—unless programmed to. Added in 2008 with Firefox 3, it was created by developers to amuse users discovering "about:" pages, which are internal browser configs.Type "about:robots" in the address bar and press Enter to view. The page includes a try-again button that does nothing, adding irony. Another variant, "about:mozilla," shows fictional scripture. These gems showcase Firefox's open-source ethos and geeky humor. In 2025, they're intact, making browsing more engaging for everyday users who stumble upon them.

7. VLC Media Player's Holiday Cone Transformations

VLC, the versatile open-source media player, features seasonal Easter eggs where its traffic cone icon changes outfits. During Christmas, it wears a Santa hat; Halloween brings a witch's hat or pumpkin. Introduced in early 2000s versions, these are subtle nods from the VideoLAN team, celebrating holidays without fanfare.

No special access needed—the icon updates automatically on the date. Force it by changing system clock. This gem adds personality to a utilitarian app, delighting users worldwide. In 2025, VLC 3.x and beyond retain this tradition, fostering community loyalty through whimsical details.

8. Windows God Mode Folder

Windows hides a powerful control panel called God Mode, aggregating hundreds of settings into one folder for quick access. Not a game but a hidden feature, it streamlines tweaks for power, display, and more. Discovered around Windows 7 (2009), it's likely an internal dev tool that leaked.

Create a new folder, rename to "GodMode.{ED7BA470-8E54-465E-825C-99712043E01C}". Open for categorized links. In Windows 11 (2025), it works flawlessly, saving time for everyday tasks like troubleshooting. This gem empowers users, revealing OS depths.9. Google Images' Atari BreakoutTurn Google Images into a playable Atari Breakout game, where you bounce a ball to break image thumbnails acting as bricks. Launched in 2013 for Atari's 37th anniversary, it's a tribute to classic arcade gaming within a search tool.

Search "Atari Breakout" in Google Images—the results transform into the game. Use mouse or trackpad as paddle. It's still active in 2025, blending nostalgia with modern web tech for fun breaks.

10. Apache OpenOffice Calc's StarWars Game

OpenOffice Calc (and LibreOffice forks) hides a Space Invaders-style game called "StarWars." Added in early versions, it's a developer Easter egg for spreadsheet breaks.

In a cell, type "=GAME('StarWars')" and press Enter. Aliens descend; shoot with arrows/space. Though removed post-4.3, it's in older installs or alternatives. This gem shows how office suites can hide arcade fun, inspiring productivity with play.

ConclusionThese top 10 hidden gems illustrate the creative underbelly of everyday software, from flight sims in spreadsheets to seasonal icons in players. They serve as rewards for exploration, humanizing tech and connecting users to developers' personalities. While some require vintage setups, most are accessible today, encouraging you to poke around your apps. Who knows what other secrets lurk? Dive in, experiment, and rediscover the joy in the familiar—software is full of surprises waiting to be unearthed.

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