What is a cheat code in video games, and what is it for?
A cheat code is a secret input, such as a button sequence, a typed word or a console command, that developers build into a game to trigger special effects. Its purpose is to make the game easier or more fun, and originally to help developers test it. Typical cheats give invincibility, unlimited ammo, all weapons, level skips or silly visual changes. They are meant for single-player play; using third-party cheat software in online games is different and usually gets accounts banned.
Why games have cheat codes
Developers originally added codes to test their own games quickly: skip a level, become invincible, spawn items. Some were left in on purpose as rewards or Easter eggs, and in the 1980s and 1990s magazines and strategy guides made them famous. Today many games replace codes with options like difficulty settings, assist modes or unlockable modifiers.
Famous cheat codes
- Konami Code: Up, Up, Down, Down, Left, Right, Left, Right, B, A. It first appeared in the NES/Famicom version of Gradius (1986), became famous through Contra and turned into a pop culture icon.
- IDDQD and IDKFA (Doom): god mode, and all weapons, keys and full ammo.
- GTA series: cheats for weapons, health, armor, vehicles and weather, entered as button combos on consoles or via the in-game phone and cheat console on PC.
How to use cheats safely
- Check whether the game has official cheats in its menus or manual.
- Save before entering a cheat; some cheats cannot be turned off without reloading.
- Expect side effects: in GTA 5, using cheats disables trophies and achievements for that session, and many other games do something similar.
- Never use cheat software, trainers or mod menus in online modes. They break terms of service and are a common way to get malware.
FAQ
What is the most famous code in gaming?
The Konami Code. It started in the home version of Gradius and has been hidden in many games, apps and websites since.
What does IDDQD do?
In Doom, IDDQD turns on god mode, making you invulnerable.
Are there useful cheats in GTA 5?
Yes: health and armor, weapons, explosive ammo, slow motion aiming and spawned vehicles. There is no money cheat in GTA 5.
Is using cheat codes wrong?
In single-player games it is your choice. In multiplayer, using cheats or hacks is unfair to others and against the rules.
Is an aimbot illegal?
Using one is mainly a terms-of-service issue that gets your account banned. Making or selling cheats can carry legal risk, depending on the country.