Tamagotchi is back in the hands of children in 2025, but the original 90’s models have become rare and valuable toys in the collector market, and could reach values that exceed four thousand euros.
A toy that marked a generation
Launched by Bandai in Japan in 1996, Tamagotchi quickly became a global phenomenon. This small egg -shaped digital device allowed you to take care of a virtual pet, requiring food, cleaning and constant attention to prevent it from dying.
The toy marked an entire generation by introducing, for the first time, an emotional connection experience with a digital being. According to Smithsonian Magazine, the success was immediate, with lines in stores and stocks sold out a few days after the launch.
The possibility of transporting the virtual animal in the pocket and accompanying it during the day contributed to its appeal among young people and adolescents, creating a sense of responsibility that went far beyond simple entertainment.
Increasing appreciation of old models
Although Tamagotchi continues to be marketed in modern versions, its demand no longer reaches the 90s levels. Today’s children have grown surrounded by digital devices, which reduced the impact of the virtual experience provided by this toy.
On the other hand, the old models have gained collection status. The vintage toy market has recorded continuous growth, with special emphasis on electronic articles from the 70s, 80s and 90s.
The original Tamagotchi that remain in good condition, especially those still sealed in the original packaging, are currently sold by hundreds of euros, increasingly valued by collectors from around the world.
Rare copies exceed 4,000 euros
The resale value depends a lot on the model and its rarity. There are versions released only in Japan or special collaborations, such as Devilgotchi and Yasashii, which reach particularly high prices.
In resale platforms like eBay, you can find Tamagotchi sold for about 800 euros. However, rarer specimens have already reached much higher values. According to Smithsonian Magazine, a Tamagotchi Mobile Kaitsu Plus model was sold for approximately 4,600 euros in 2021.
This appreciation is comparable to that of other iconic toys of the past, such as those offered in the children’s menus of McDonald’s, which also conquered collectors years later.
A VALUE MEMORY
The emotional connection created with Tamagotchi and the nostalgic character associated with the toy explain their growing value among adults who today seek to recover objects from childhood.
The phenomenon of retro-gaming and digital culture of the 1990s continues to attract a faithful audience, willing to pay high values for well-maintained old models.
It also states that there are collectors dedicated exclusively to finding all versions released since 1996, including regional editions and limited specimens, making this market increasingly specialized and demanding.
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