It’s been 23 years since the release of the GameCube, and a surprising Easter egg has been discovered, causing a buzz across the internet. The Easter egg involves a unique start-up sound effect that can be triggered by pressing the Z button on the controller, transforming the familiar boot-up xylophonic ditty into a sound resembling a squeaky toy with a child’s laughter.

The revelation of this hidden feature came to light through a Tiktok video posted by Secret Castle Toys and Games, a retro gaming store based in Kentucky. Initially met with skepticism, the authenticity of the Easter egg was put to the test by John Walker from Kotaku, who decided to verify the claim by testing it on his own GameCube.

With the help of a modern TV equipped with RCA sockets, the GameCube was connected, and the Z button was pressed, confirming the existence of the unexpected Easter egg. The video evidence provided further validation of the discovery, dispelling any doubts regarding its authenticity.

While the authenticity of the squeaky Easter egg has been confirmed, the claim that plugging in four controllers simultaneously triggers another effect remains unverified, as John Walker only had one GameCube controller at his disposal.

Secret Castle’s Tiktok video has garnered significant attention, amassing nearly half a million followers and sparking widespread interest in this long-hidden feature of the GameCube. The store’s reputation and impressive collection of retro gaming paraphernalia have also contributed to the viral nature of the discovery.

The unexpected revelation has captivated gaming enthusiasts, and as the news spreads, it is expected to generate further interest and discussion within the gaming community. The GameCube’s squeaky Easter egg serves as a reminder of the enduring appeal and fascination of classic gaming consoles, offering a delightful surprise to both long-time fans and newcomers.