Digital pets known as Tamagotchi are celebrating their 30th anniversary. First released in Japan in the 1990s, these small handheld devices allowed users to take care of a virtual creature that needed feeding, cleaning, and attention. If the owner stopped caring for it, the digital pet could become unhappy or even disappear. This simple idea quickly became a global phenomenon, especially among children and teenagers.
For many users, the emotional connection was surprisingly strong. In the video, some people explain that when their Tamagotchi “died”, they treated it like a real pet. A few even say they buried their Tamagotchi, sometimes with a small ceremony. While this may seem funny today, it shows how real the sense of responsibility and attachment felt at the time. The digital pet depended entirely on its owner, which created genuine emotions.
Over the years, Tamagotchi has evolved with technology. Early versions were basic, but newer models include color screens, more characters, and social features. Many adults who owned Tamagotchi as children are now buying them again. This mix of nostalgia and emotional attachment explains why Tamagotchi has survived for 30 years despite major technological changes.
Vocabulary :
• digital pet: a virtual animal you take care of
• handheld: small enough to hold in your hand
• to take care of: to look after someone or something
• emotional attachment: strong feelings toward something
• nostalgia: affection for the past
• feature: a special function
• evolve: to change or develop over time
• longevity: the ability to last a long time