Desktop Goose

Free virtual pet goose

Desktop Goose is a free novelty anti-efficiency and anti-productivity software that will keep on pestering you. Developed by samperson, this frustratingly unusual game deploys what looks like a lovable virtual pet goose that holds something more sinister within.

Whether you’re playing a game or working on a task, the Desktop Goose will constantly create havoc on your device by chasing your cursor, displacing your windows, tracking mud across your screen, and launching various apps such as Notepad unprompted. This silly title is inspired by the simulation video games, Untitled Goose Game and SkateBIRD.

Let chaos reign

Desktop Goose is a not-so-lovely virtual pet. His pixelated yellow and white body will be found waddling around your computer, leaving muddy footprints all over it. However, this little app has a lot of features that will only slow you down. Goose will appear on your desktop and start following your cursor immediately after installation. At first, it seems cute, but its behavior will spiral out of control.

Though not a virus, this software has the ability to disrupt any operation on your computer. It will emerge while you are playing a computer game by dragging a message that reads "Excellent work." However, Goose's worst move is possessing your mouse. One minute, you're playing a game and the next, your cursor can suddenly get stuck. However, this silly animal can try to alleviate your frustration by bringing you memes.

With configuration toggles and the freedom to use mods, players can also adjust the goose’s behavior, aggression, and sounds. After going through a tedious installation process, though — with the need to enable special permissions to run the app — stopping the goose when you need to get work done can be an even greater issue. One of the easiest ways is to simply use your device’s Task Manager to forcibly shut it down.

Annoying but entertaining 

Desktop Goose gives you the nostalgic feeling of owning a virtual desktop pet like Shimeji-ee, however, Goose's main goal is to torment you. By taking your cursor hostage, messing up your home screen, and opening notes when you’re trying to get something done, this unusual pet offers a hilariously infuriating experience. However, the installation and closure of this program can be an added frustration as well.