When the network "dies", the dinosaur appears - and so millions of people are hooked on this seemingly simple game.
1. Unexpected Origin
First appeared in 2014 on Chrome when the network was down
Initially just an Easter egg (hidden secret) of the browser
Programmed by Sebastien Gabriel (designer at Google)
2. Super Simple Gameplay
Press Space/Up key to jump over the cactus
Down key to duck to avoid flying birds
Speed increases over time
Game over when hitting an obstacle
3. Irresistible Attraction
✔ "One-click" ratio is easy to play but hard to master
✔ "Just a little more" effect makes players unable to stop
✔ No download, no ads - play offline
✔ Competitiveness: Who will be the one to get the highest score?
4. Interesting Secret
Type "Dinosaur Game" to play even when connected
At night the game switches to dark mode (after 700 points)
Can play with voice (try shouting "jump" and see)
World record: over 99999 points (makes the game stop counting)
5. Cultural Phenomenon
Modded into hundreds of versions (add characters, 3D graphics)
Appears in memes, t-shirts, stickers
Many streamers livestream to conquer high scores
Google once held an event for this game (Dino Run 2018)
Conclusion:
Dinosaur Game proves that sometimes the simplest things are the most addictive. It is not only a "lifesaver" when losing life, but also becomes an internet cultural icon. Now try it... how many points do you get?