Windows 98 simulation - A short view back to the past

Windows 98 is one of the more iconic Operating Systems in the hearts of many. Developed by Microsoft, this operating system saw it's first release halfway through the year of 1998. While it'll be interesting to see someone still using this as their primary operating system, as a part of the majority of people (who doesn't use it anymore, if you're wondering what 'majority' inclines to), I had it's last taste in 2006 (it was largely outdated even back then). However, as we grow up, something from within yearns to revisit the older memories. As a result, I decided to revisit one of the many such memories.

Revisiting Windows 98 again - kinda...

Although I could have used Virtual Machines to emulate the actual operating system, I bumped into an application in the Google Play store. The application is developed by 'LR-Soft', a developer (or a group of developers) on Google Play Store, who put a large grin on my face. Hmm... nice to see some more nostalgic people like me...

Yes, this is an application where we can somewhat experience Windows 98 (the best part is it is offline and has no ads). I've been fiddling with this app for quite some time. It is a bit underwhelming as most of the actions are restricted, but, should I complain? It is an application for god's sake, not an entire operating system! It still gives a very good experience of the historic OS, as I used few of the more popular applications used by the people, which includes games, paint, media player, etc. So, without further ado, let's hop into what it has to offer.

On starting the application, one is greeted with this page where the controls are mentioned. I am too lazy to type them, so read from the picture if you want.

On selecting the button saying 'Got it!', you are greeted... by Nostalgia...

On loading the screen, the legendary desktop is displayed with all the application shortcuts (that are available with this android application).

The first batch of applications I tested are the games (of course). At first, I thought they would be disappointing. But, after experiencing, I can say I was very wrong. They are the carbon copy of what used to exist in the actual systems!

I tested few more applications after that, the most interesting being the browser, which, to my surprise, actually works!

I tried using the MS Paint and drew a wonderful smiley. Some tools doesn't work (like the curve tool), but still, very good for a demo.

I also tried customization, but it seems like few pages (like Screen Saver and Appearance) are for display only as the interface doesn't work. But, at least one can still change wallpapers.

The most fascinating thing, however, is the media player, which works like a charm. One can view downloaded media from the phone (android device directory) via this application.

Overall, a pretty solid experience. It certainly brings back a lot of childhood memories when times were much simpler. I would rate it a solid 4 out of 5 as an application and 5 out of 5 for the effort behind it's development.

Thank You!