The Dont Push the Red Button Game: A Social Experiment Gone Viral

In April 2015, a Reddit administrator created an online meta-game and social experiment that took the internet by storm. Dubbed the 'Dont Push the Red Button Game,' this interactive experience was designed to test human psychology and behavior in a unique way.

The game consisted of a simple yet intriguing concept: a red button with a 60-second countdown timer. Whenever a user pressed the button, the timer would reset, and the cycle would repeat. The goal was to resist the urge to press the button as long as possible, creating an environment where players were pitted against each other in a battle of self-control.

To track the live statistics and enable users to participate, various websites, browser extensions, and mobile applications were created. As a result, the game attracted clicks from over one million user accounts worldwide, making it a global phenomenon.

The experiment was hosted on Reddit for nearly two months, starting on April 1st (April Fools' Day) and concluding on June 5th. During this time, the button was pressed countless times, but there was one notable occasion when no user managed to resist the temptation until the timer reached zero. This moment marked a milestone in the game's history, as it showed that even under immense pressure, humans can exhibit remarkable self-control.

The creator of the Dont Push the Red Button Game is Josh Wardle, also known as powerlanguage, who aimed to explore human behavior and psychology through this innovative concept. The experiment was a resounding success, demonstrating the power of social media in creating engaging and thought-provoking experiences that transcend traditional gaming boundaries.

In conclusion, the Dont Push the Red Button Game serves as an interesting case study on human behavior and the impact of online interactions. By leveraging the internet's vast reach and Reddit's massive user base, this game not only entertained millions but also sparked a meaningful conversation about our psychological responses to digital stimuli.

Dont push the red button game