The Nineties toy craze Tamagotchi the virtual pet you had to carry around with you to feed and look after is being relaunched by Bandai in the UK this time branded Tamagotchi Friends.

The original version sold 80 million units since first appearing in 1997.  The new Tamagotchi Friends will be on general sale from 21st December and it will look very much like the original but inside it has new technology, now owners can ‘bump’ other owners to send each other texts, gifts and even go on play dates.

The more they ‘bump’ together and interact the more points and rewards will be earned while also raising their best friend meter. New characters and games are included and a pause function could be very handy.

“In the 90s, Tamagotchi paved the way for a digital age in toys so we are incredibly excited to be giving the hugely popular, classic toy a modern-day update,” said Bandai marketing director, Darrell Jones, who worked on the original Tamagotchi launch.

“The innovative features, including the new characters and the short-range communication ‘bump’ feature, will entertain a whole new generation of Tamagotchi fans.

“We’re really looking forward to seeing Tamagotchi being welcomed into homes and playgrounds across the country, and once again becoming an important member of everyone’s family.” – Bandai marketing director, Darrell Jones

Tamagotchi Friends are priced at £24.99 recommended retail price and can now be pre-ordered from the usual UK outlets, toysrus,smthys toys and argos.
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