A "cheat code" is a sequence of inputs or commands that players can enter in video games to unlock special features, gain advantages, or access hidden content. These codes can provide benefits such as extra lives, invincibility, or new levels, enhancing the gaming experience. Cheat codes are often used for fun or to explore the game more freely. Originally popularized in the 1980s and 1990s, cheat codes were commonly found in games for consoles like the Nintendo Entertainment System and Sega Genesis. Today, while some games still include cheat codes, others have shifted towards downloadable content and in-game purchases for similar benefits.