Tamagotchis Inducted into World Video Game Hall of Fame
The nostalgia is real as Tamagotchis, the electronic pets that captured the hearts of many in the late 1990s, have been inducted into the World Video Game Hall of Fame. According to a report from KOAT, the Tamagotchi phenomenon took the world by storm when it was first released in the US in 1997.
The Tamagotchi, an egg-shaped digital pet, required owners to feed, play with, and even clean up after it, creating a unique bond between the owner and the digital pet. The toy was an instant sensation, with stores struggling to keep it in stock as demand soared. As KOAT reports, "Stores struggled to keep the ‘addicting’ toy in stock as demand soared."
The Tamagotchi’s popularity can be attributed to its ability to simulate the experience of caring for a real pet, without the responsibilities that come with it. Children and adults alike were captivated by the digital pets, which required owners to manage their hunger, happiness, and health. As one shopper explained to KOAT, "They represent happiness and hunger. The more those hearts are filled, the more satisfied the Tamagotchi is."
The induction of Tamagotchis into the World Video Game Hall of Fame is a testament to its enduring popularity. The toy has become a cultural phenomenon, symbolizing the nostalgia of the late 1990s. As reported by KOAT, the Tamagotchi’s impact on popular culture is still felt today, with many people reminiscing about their experiences with the digital pets.
In an interview with KOAT, it is clear that the Tamagotchi’s impact on the toy industry was significant. The toy’s unique concept and addictive gameplay made it a must-have item for many children and adults. The Tamagotchi’s popularity also spawned a range of merchandise, including games, accessories, and even a television show.
The World Video Game Hall of Fame induction is a fitting tribute to the Tamagotchi’s enduring legacy. As KOAT reports, the Tamagotchi is one of the most iconic toys of the 1990s, and its impact on popular culture is still felt today. The Tamagotchi’s induction into the World Video Game Hall of Fame is a testament to its status as a cultural phenomenon.
The Tamagotchi’s legacy continues to inspire new generations of gamers and toy enthusiasts. As reported by KOAT, the Tamagotchi’s impact on the gaming industry is still felt today, with many modern games drawing inspiration from the digital pet’s unique concept.
Source: KOAT – Tamagotchis took over the toy aisles in the late ‘90s, and now they’ve been inducted into the World Video Game Hall of Fame.
The article was originally published by KOAT, and can be read in full on their website: KOAT – Tamagotchi Hall of Fame 2025
