The return of certain classic toys to the children’s universe does not go unnoticed to parents who grew up in the 1990s. Among the most frequent gift requests, a seemingly modern toy is reviving childhood memories.
This toy, still sold as a novelty, has been a true global phenomenon for over two decades. Its simple appearance contrasts with the impact it had in a whole generation of children and young adults.
The Birth of Tamagotchi
This is Tamagotchi, a virtual pet created by the Japanese Bandai company and originally released in 1996. Small, portable and egg-shaped, this digital device included an LCD screen and three buttons that allowed you to take care of a virtual creature.
A digital emotional connection
The success of the toy was immediate. By allowing feed, cleaning and tracking the evolution of the digital animal, Tamagotchi has introduced a pioneering concept of emotional responsibility to a virtual entity, long before social networks or current interactive games, according to Women’s Health.
Anxiety and attachment from an early age
The dependence of the toy generated anxiety and attachment. Forgetting Tamagotchi took care of its digital “death”, which, for many children, represented a true tragedy. It was not uncommon to see him hanging from backpacks or pockets of teenagers and even adults.
An immediate global success
Quickly, the stocks disappeared from the shelves. The news spread all over the world, and for a while few toys managed to rival their innovative and addictive appeal.
Despite being relaunched in several versions over the years, interest in the current Tamagotchi does not reach the levels of popularity of yore. In part, because digital has become omnipresent in children’s daily lives, reducing the impact of a virtual toy.
Vintage is synonymous with value
According to the same source, it is in old models that interest seems to have reborn. The original versions of Tamagotchi became highly valued collection items, especially among retro-gaming and nostalgic fans of the 90s pop culture.
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Prices that surprise the most attentive
Some collectors are willing to pay high sums for well -maintained units. Prices vary depending on the state of the toy and whether the original packaging is still intact.
According to several second -hand sales sites, including eBay, there are copies that reach values exceeding 800 euros. In rarer cases, prices may exceed thousands.
The most coveted rarities
Among the most coveted models are limited editions marketed exclusively in Japan. Versions such as Devilgotchi or Yasashii are particularly sought.
Also special collaborations and luxury tamagotchi gained prominence among collectors. The rarer the model, the higher the market value.
Copies that broke records
According to, and according to Smithsonian Magazine, a copy of Mobile Kaitsu Plus, a rare version of Tamagotchi, was sold in 2021 by 4,600 euros.
A TIME TO TOY
In a time when nostalgia dictates trends, it is not surprising that such a simple toy continue to mark generations and earn new life among the little ones, and also among adults.
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