Funny, I always heard this anecdote in the context of adding hair to Mickey Mouse's arms. Apocryphal indeed, I guess: https://www.npr.org/2014/11/17/364760847/whats-with-all-of-t...

In terms of function though, the "hairy arm" is the complete opposite though: it's not to make sure reviewers are paying attention, it's to distract meddling reviewers from the changes you don't want them to veto.

From the linked article on the duck:

> A feature added for no other reason than to draw management attention and be removed, thus avoiding unnecessary changes in other aspects of the product.

Sounds like it was for the same reason

Yes, sorry what I meant was opposite to the reason that started this thread (to ensure review participation)

I worked at Interplay at the time and can confirm the duck story.