The History of Tamagotchi: How a Digital Pet Took Over the World
In the late 1990s, a tiny egg-shaped device with a pixelated creature inside became a global sensation. Tamagotchi, the world’s first major virtual pet, changed the way people interacted with technology and sparked a digital pet craze that continues to influence gaming today. From its humble beginnings in Japan to its lasting cultural legacy, here’s how Tamagotchi took over the world.
Origins: The Birth of Tamagotchi
Tamagotchi was created by Aki Maita, a Japanese researcher at Bandai, and was first released in Japan on November 23, 1996. Maita wanted to design a pet that could be cared for anywhere, providing companionship without the responsibilities of a real animal. The name ‘Tamagotchi’ is a portmanteau, combining the Japanese word ‘tamago’ (egg) and the English word ‘watch,’ reflecting its egg-shaped design and portability.
The original Tamagotchi featured a simple LCD screen and three buttons. Players had to feed, clean, and play with their pet while managing its happiness and discipline. If neglected, the digital pet could get sick or even die, reinforcing a sense of responsibility in its owner.
Global Phenomenon: The Tamagotchi Craze
After its massive success in Japan, Tamagotchi launched internationally in 1997. The response was overwhelming, with millions of units selling out within weeks. Kids and teens became obsessed with caring for their virtual pets, taking them to school and checking on them constantly. The demand was so high that some schools banned Tamagotchi, as students were too distracted by their pets.
By the end of 1997, over 40 million Tamagotchi units had been sold worldwide. It became one of the biggest toy trends of the decade, competing with other major ’90s fads like Pokémon and Beanie Babies.
Evolution: New Versions and Features
As the craze continued, Bandai released multiple new versions of Tamagotchi with enhanced features:
Tamagotchi Connection (2004): Introduced infrared technology, allowing users to connect and interact with other Tamagotchi.
Tamagotchi ID and ID L (2009-2011): Featured colour screens and customizable accessories.
Tamagotchi Smart (2021): A smartwatch version of the classic pet, integrating modern touchscreen controls and voice recognition.
Throughout the years, Tamagotchi has expanded into spin-off games, anime series, and collaborations with brands like Sanrio and Pokémon.
Cultural Impact and Legacy
Tamagotchi didn’t just change the toy industry—it influenced digital pet gaming as a whole. Its success paved the way for later virtual pet experiences like Neopets, Nintendogs, and mobile games like Pou and My Talking Tom.
Even as gaming technology has advanced, it has remained a nostalgic and beloved brand. Limited-edition releases and reboots continue to appeal to both new players and long-time fans. The rise of digital nostalgia has brought renewed interest in Tamagotchi, proving that the bond between humans and virtual pets is as strong as ever.
From a simple idea of a portable pet to a worldwide cultural icon, Tamagotchi’s journey is one of innovation, nostalgia, and lasting influence. Whether you experienced the craze firsthand or are just discovering the magic of these tiny creatures, one thing is certain—Tamagotchi remains one of the most unforgettable toys in history.
–Silviya.Y
