Today's Google Doodle is a lot of fun. It's also funny timing for me personally because I just got a new popcorn pan for the stove and a large amount of popcorn kernels because that's the only way to make popcorn. None of this microwave nonsense. Just seeds, oil and butter. The good stuff. Good and good for you.

In any case, today's Google Doodle is a celebration of popcorn. It's also a battle royale game where you compete alone or in squads against 60 players to see who can survive to the end. I got 11th place on my first attempt by dodging popcorn and salt and trying to deflect the projectiles against opposing players.

The official description of the Doodle is:

They firmly believe that today's interactive doodle celebrates your favorite movie companion and classic late night snack: popcorn! This game makes Doodles history by allowing the highest number of simultaneous players ever! Play alone or invite friends to play with you in squad mode.

Popcorn is not a new phenomenon. The delicious snack – and a favorite of moviegoers around the world – dates back to ancient times, long before Europeans “discovered” America. Archaeologists have discovered popcorn kernels in New Mexico dating back to around 3600 BC. Found. Traces of popcorn have been found in ancient Peruvian graves.

However, popcorn did not gain popularity in the United States until the 19th century. In 1885, Charles Cretors invented the first steam-powered popcorn machine in Chicago, which meant that popcorn was widely available by the time the World's Columbian Exposition was held in Chicago in 1893 (the setting of Erik Larson's excellent book). The Devil in the White City, what everyone should read).

Be sure to visit the Google homepage today to play Popcorn Battle Royale. It's actually pretty fun!