Ever tried opening Google Chrome when your internet is down? If so, you’ve probably met the adorable pixelated dinosaur. This tiny T. rex, a cheerful yet static figure at first glance, serves as a playful nod to your disconnected state. Did you know that pressing the spacebar transforms this friendly dino into the star of a simple yet addictive endless runner game?

The gameplay, where you jump over cacti and duck under obstacles, captures a delightful sense of retro gaming nostalgia. It’s reminiscent of beloved titles like Moon Patrol, one of the first side-scrolling games from the 1980s, or BC’s Quest for Tires, a 1983 gem where a caveman on a unicycle navigates treacherous terrain.

These classic games share the same straightforward yet challenging "jump and duck" mechanics, proving that simple concepts can deliver endlessly engaging experiences. While the Chrome Dino game is technically designed to be infinite, with some reports suggesting it loops back after 99,999 points, most players are captivated by its charm long before hitting such lofty milestones. It’s a perfect example of how a basic design can stand the test of time, much like the retro games that inspired it.