In 2025, a user set up a Windows XP virtual machine to revisit three beloved applications: 3D Pinball Space Cadet, Windows Movie Maker, and TweakUI. These programs were staples of the XP experience, offering gaming, video editing, and customization options that many remember fondly.
Classic Games and Software
One notable app, 3D Pinball Space Cadet, was a simple yet engaging game where players used flippers to score by hitting lights, ramps, and bumpers. Originally included in Windows XP, the game remains a nostalgic favorite, even though modern alternatives are available.
Windows Movie Maker, released in 2000 to compete with iMovie, was another key feature of XP. Despite being discontinued in 2017, it was renowned for its basic editing functions, and it evokes strong nostalgia for users familiar with creating simple video edits.
Customization with TweakUI
TweakUI provided rare customization opportunities during the XP era. This utility allowed users to adjust various interface settings simply and organized them into categories for ease of access. It was valued for providing a centralized location for modifying settings without navigating XP's intricate Control Panel.
While these applications may seem outdated to those accustomed to the capabilities of Windows 10 and 11, they offer a valuable glimpse into the past software culture of the early 2000s. Revisiting them through a virtual machine allows users to relive memories and appreciate the evolutionary path of PC applications.
