Video: Watch 10 terrific 'Easter eggs' in action
From Wanda the fish to crazy dates and Star Wars games, here are some fun things to try for the holiday weekend
April 10, 2009 (Computerworld) No, you can't eat these Easter eggs.
In this case, they're hidden tricks, games and surprises that programmers put in their code that are activated by certain key combinations or other user input. You can find them in applications, operating systems, browsers and just about any other type of software.
I admit that a couple of these examples -- one in Linux and one in a Telnet session -- aren't technically Easter eggs. But I think these little treats are pretty cool so I put them all in my egg basket to share with you.
In case the videos go by too quickly for you, I'll provide written instructions for each one.
I know there are plenty more out there, so please comment below to share your favorite secret surprises. In the meantime, you can read everyone else's comments, and you can read about a Computerworld colleague's favorite Easter egg.
Star Wars game
- Go to the spreadsheet application in the OpenOffice suite
- Go to any cell
- Type in: =game()
The response will be "say what?"
- Type in: =GAME("StarWars")
- Press the enter key -- the opening screen shows up
- Pick your icon -- a message will appear in German
- Pick your level (again, in German)
- Click 'start'
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