🎮 Google Easter Eggs · Voice Tricks
Google Konami Code
Trick
Some entries on our hidden Google games list need a mouse. This one needs your voice. The Konami Code is the most famous cheat code in gaming, and Google has hidden reactions to it in more than one product. Here is where it works, what happens, and what to expect.
Quick answer: Open Google voice search and say "up, up, down, down, left, right, left, right." Google replies that cheat mode is unlocked and you now have unlimited free searches. It is a joke, since searches were already free.
The Konami Code in Google products
| Where | What you do | What happens |
|---|---|---|
| Google voice search | Tap the microphone and say the eight directions | Google announces cheat mode and unlimited free searches (reported March 2014). |
| Google Home and Assistant | Say "Hey Google," then the code | The device says cheat mode is unlocked, with a drumroll and celebration sounds. |
| Google Play Games (older app) | Swipe up, up, down, down, left, right, left, right | A prompt finishes the code with B, A and Start, and you earn an achievement. |
How to try it on voice search
- Open Google's search box. Use a browser or phone that offers the microphone button.
- Tap the microphone. Allow microphone access if your browser asks.
- Say the sequence clearly. "Up, up, down, down, left, right, left, right."
- Listen for the reply. Google should answer with its cheat mode message.
If nothing happens: voice features vary by device, language and region, and Google can change or remove responses without notice. Try a phone, try the Assistant on a smart speaker, or speak slowly and clearly.
Where the code comes from
The Konami Code began in Konami's NES-era games, where entering up, up, down, down, left, right, left, right, B, A and Start at the right moment unlocked a bonus. In Contra it gave players 30 extra lives. The sequence became so famous that developers hide it in websites, apps and devices as a wink to gamers.
Google has used it several times, which is why it earns a spot in our complete list of Google Easter eggs. The Google Play Games version, reported in 2013, rewarded the code with an achievement that references the old Sega game Zero Wing.
Tips for making it work
- Speak the directions only. The voice search reaction was triggered by the eight directions, not by B, A or Start.
- Try Google's speakers. They have been reported to respond to the full code with celebration sounds.
- Reduce background noise. Misheard words will break the sequence.
- Try other page tricks. If you enjoy playful reactions, the Google gravity and underwater tricks guide turns the whole results page upside down.
More hidden games to try
When you are ready to switch from codes to puzzles, the Google minesweeper trick is next in the series.
Frequently Asked Questions
For the original coverage of the voice search version, read TechCrunch's original 2014 report.