Most know Google for its reputable search engine, but have you explored its eccentric and playful side yet? Numerous Google Easter eggs are scattered all over the web, hidden within their search engine and sprinkled throughout their diverse range of services.
Hold tight, we’re about to embark on a delightful journey through the enchanting realm of Google Easter eggs.
Understanding Google Easter Eggs
Essentially, Google Easter eggs are delightful hidden treasures that Google has carefully spread across its search results and various services. These tiny surprises are designed by the tech behemoth to add an element of amusement and a spark of laughter to the otherwise everyday search experience.
You can stumble upon some of these Easter eggs by entering specific phrases into the Google search bar, while others are tucked away in Google’s other offerings, like Google Maps or Google Assistant.
Consider Google Easter eggs as the digital counterpart of the Easter eggs you’d hunt for in your grandma’s garden. However, instead of chocolates, your quest will be for amusing animations, interactive games, and jokes.
The Origin of Google Easter Eggs
Google Easter eggs have been a part of the Google experience since the dawn of Google search. The tech giant began releasing these Easter eggs to their platforms, including YouTube, Google Search, and Android, back in 2000.
It all started with the iconic answer to the “google in 1998” search query.
Back then, Google’s minimalist search interface was a blank slate awaiting a dose of vibrancy. This is exactly what the first Google Easter eggs brought to the table—a dash of wit and character to a rather simple search experience.
Since then, Google’s Easter eggs have only grown more intricate and enjoyable.
Highlighting Google Easter Eggs 2025
Here’s a compilation of some of the most engaging and well-liked Google Easter eggs from 2023 that you should definitely experience for yourself.
1. Last of Us
The Last of Us is a successful 2013 video game, themed around a zombie apocalypse, that got adapted into a dramatic TV series in 2023. Input “last of us” in the Google search bar, and you’ll spot a mushroom icon at the bottom of the page.
Clicking on it triggers a cordyceps animation on your screen. Tapping the icon repeatedly multiplies the number of fungi, and there’s also a share button alongside.
2. New Year’s Eve 2025
This Easter Egg was a part of the New Year’s countdown, available only a few days before 2022 concluded.
To find this Easter Egg, enter “new year’s eve” in the Google search bar. Post entering the keyword, your screen will be awash with animated confetti. To relive the animation, simply tap on the popper icon at the top of the search results.
3. Meteorite
Meteorites can be incredibly captivating to observe, given they are harmless and don’t pose any threat to Earth. Key in “meteorite” in the Google search bar, and you’ll witness a meteorite animation as it hurtles down the screen.
Your webpage will shudder upon impact with the bottom of the screen. You can also use alternative terms like “chicxulub,” which is supposedly the meteor that led to the extinction of the dinosaurs.
4. Year of the Rabbit Doodle
As per Chinese customs, 2025 is the year of the rabbit. Google released a special doodle on January 22 to celebrate the Lunar New Year.
5. Valentine’s Day Doodle
Google unveiled a simple yet poignant doodle on February 14 to commemorate Valentine’s Day. This year’s theme encapsulates love in every season, with the caption “Rain or shine, will you be mine?” accompanying the doodle at launch.
Classic Google Easter Eggs
Enduring Classics of Google Easter Eggs Google serves as a playground of amusement and cheer. Its array of Easter eggs can brighten your day and offer a brief respite from any ongoing concerns.
However, several Easter eggs released in the past might not be accessible or function as they did on the search engine. Luckily, you can visit www.elgoog.im to revisit the most memorable Easter eggs.
This site also hosts a few unofficial Google Easter eggs for additional enjoyment. Here’s a selection of some:
1. Do a Barrel Roll
Key in “do a barrel roll” on Google, and watch as the search results page completes a full 360-degree spin, much like an airplane executing a barrel roll. It’s an amusing and simple trick that can make you feel like a daredevil pilot performing daring aerobatic stunts.
2. Tilt or Askew
Feeling slightly off balance? By typing “tilt” or “askew” into the search bar, you can skew the entire Google search page. The page tilts to one side, offering a new angle to your search results. It adds a dash of quirkiness to your Google journey.
3. Zerg Rush
Ready for a total onslaught on your search results? Type “zerg rush” into the search bar and gear up to protect yourself from a swarm of red “o”s aiming to obliterate your search results. It’s an amusing and silly mini-game on Google, bound to bring a smile to your face. Guard your search results against the relentless Zergs as if your life hinges on it!
4. Atari Breakout
Yearning for the vintage arcade games of the 80s? Type “atari breakout” into Google Images and prepare to play a round of Breakout on your web browser!
It’s a fun way to pause from your search results and embark on a brief gaming adventure. You’ll see the search results transform into bricks, and a movable paddle at the bottom of the screen. As you break the bricks by deflecting the ball with your paddle, you can reminiscence about the classic arcade era.
5. Play Pac-Man
Google celebrated the 30th anniversary of Pac-Man with a playable doodle back in 2010. Type “Pac-Man” in the Google search bar, and click on “Click to Play” to start the classic game. Try to eat all the dots while avoiding the four ghosts, Blinky, Pinky, Inky, and Clyde.
6. Snake Game
This classic game can be played by typing “snake game” in the Google search bar. This retro game from the ’70s was popularized by Nokia in the ’90s. It’s simple, fun, and addictive. Move the snake around to eat the apple, but don’t hit the edges or the snake’s own tail!
7. Solitaire
Yearning for a classic card game? Simply type “solitaire” into the search bar to play this timeless game directly in your browser. It’s perfect for a quick, entertaining break during your workday or when you’re waiting for your next meeting to start.
8. Tic Tac Toe
A game that’s easy to learn but hard to master. Enter “tic tac toe” or “naughts and crosses” in the Google search bar to start a game against Google’s AI. You can select the difficulty level or even play against a friend by choosing the “play against a friend” option.
9. Text Adventure
For fans of text-based games, Google has something in store for you too. Search for “text adventure” and then right click and select “Inspect” on the results page. Click on the “Console” tab in the new window that pops up. There, you will find a text-based game where you navigate through an adventure by inputting text commands.
10. Flip a Coin
Can’t decide? Let Google decide for you. Type “flip a coin” into the search bar and Google will flip a virtual coin for you. It’s a simple and fun way to make a decision, or to just add a bit of randomness to your day.
In Closing
Google Easter eggs are proof that even the world’s most powerful search engine has a sense of humor and a playful side. They are a delightful and charming feature of the Google experience, providing a fun, interactive diversion from your usual web browsing routine. Whether you’re in the mood for games, jokes, or animations, there’s likely a Google Easter egg out there for you.