"Tamagotchi" is causing a boom again in the Reiwa era. The portable training toy that caused a social phenomenon when it was released in 1996 is now loved by many generations. In this article, we will trace the evolution of the Tamagotchi series and thoroughly explain the functions of the latest models! We will introduce plenty of the charm of Tamagotchi and how to enjoy them.
What is Tamagotchi? Reasons for the Resurgence in Reiwa
©BANDAI
First, let's review the outline of Tamagotchi and take a look at the background of its renewed attention in Reiwa.
Basic information of the product
The "Tamagotchi" released by Bandai in 1996 is a palm-sized egg-shaped toy. Players enjoy their growth as they grow up similar to real pets, feeding the small eggs displayed on the screen, shedding feces, and treating illness.
Why is Tamagotchi booming again now?
The main reason why Tamagotchi is causing a resurgence in Reiwa is the evolution of Tamagotchi itself and the spread of SNS.
The original "Tamagotchi" had a simple structure with three buttons in black and white dot art, but devices released in 2023 are equipped with Wi-Fi functions, and they are constantly evolving to meet modern lifestyles. Therefore, it is not uncommon for the generation that played with the first "Tamagotchi" to become parents and enjoy it with their children.
In addition, at the same time as the evolution of Tamagotchi, SNS has become popular, and now some people share their own Tamagotchi growth records and rare Tamagotchi images along with the hashtag "#たまごっち". This background may be causing a resurgence of Tamagotchi.
List of Tamagotchi's Past Devices! What's The Difference Between Tamagotchi Uni and Tamagotchi Paradise?
From here, we will introduce such Tamagotchi successive devices. From the first generation to the latest devices, let's take a look back at the history of Tamagotchi, where nostalgia and newness coexist.
The first Tamagotchi
Tamagotchi (original) ©BANDAI
It features black and white pixel art with three buttons and colorful hues. If you neglect to take care of it, Tamagotchi will be in a bad mood, and in the worst case, it will die and become a "grave". This simple yet life-nurturing sense of responsibility has won the hearts of many people and sparked a social phenomenon.
Starting with the hit of the first "Tamagotchi", successive devices that have undergone various evolutions have appeared.
The evolution of successive devices
In 2004, the "Tamagotchi Plus" was introduced equipped with an infrared communication function and can communicate with each other. Tamagotchi owner was able to play with friend's Tamagotchi, get their Tamagotchi married, and raise the second generation Tamagotchi.
In 2008, the "Tamagotchi Plus Color" equipped with a color LCD was released so that you can enjoy a more vivid and expressive world of Tamagotchi. In addition, it has been deployed to overseas markets, and as of August 2025, the Tamagotchi series has exceeded 100 million units shipped domestically and internationally.
In 2014, the TAMAGOTCHI 4U was introduced with NFC communication function. Just by aligning the backs of the terminals with each other, you can now easily enjoy profile exchanges, compatibility fortune-telling, item exchanges, and battle mini-games.
In 2018, "Tamagotchi Mi-tsu" was released, which can be linked to mobile apps, making communication and communication between users easier than ever.
And the "Tamagotchi Uni" that appeared in 2023 has undergone an evolution that sets it apart from the conventional Tamagotchi, such as the introduction of Wi-Fi communication functions.
In addition, you can go out to the metaverse "Tamaverse" where you can meet Tamagotchi, which has been raised by people from all over the world, and make Tamagotchi's original accessories, greatly expanding the range of play. In addition, it can be worn on the arm like a smartwatch, making it easier to carry Tamagotchi around.
Features of modern devices
The latest device is the "Tamagotchi Paradise" released in July 2025. It is equipped with a new function "zoom dial", making it a device with a wide range of training that allows you to take care of Tamagotchi from various perspectives from the cellular level to the cosmic level. In addition, the Tamagotchi that grow varies depending on the field and breeding method, and there are more than 50,000 species of Tamagotchi! In addition, it is equipped with a "tsu-shin" (communication) function that allows you to communicate with other Tamagotchi by matching devices with each other.
However, there is no Wi-Fi communication function, and only contact communication between Tamagotchi Paradise and "Lab Tama" installed in stores is possible.
List of main series of Tamagotchi
Tamagotchi: A general term for models with black and white LCD and simple functions from the first generation "Tamagotchi" released in 1996. A series that can be said to be the origin of pet-raising toys, mainly specialized only in raising Tamagotchi.
Tamagotchi Connection: A general term for devices released after 2004 that are equipped with a function that allows Tamagotchi to communicate with each other, which has been revived in 2024 to commemorate the 20th anniversary. You will be able to communicate with your friends and get married and raise children.
Tamagotchi nano: A small, low-cost version of Tamagotchi that first appeared in 2010. It is characterized by collaborating with various anime and characters, allowing you to easily enjoy the world of Tamagotchi.
Tamagotchi Uni: A series with Wi-Fi function released in 2023. You can meet Tamagotchi and Tamagotchi's metaverse space 'Tamaverse', which users from all over the world have raised.
Tamagotchi Paradise: The latest series released in July 2025. With a new function called zoom dial, you can take care of the child while changing your perspective from the cellular level to the cosmic level.
This Much Difference Between Past and Present! 5 New Features of Tamagotchi
Tamagotchi is full of groundbreaking features that have not been seen in the previous series. Here, we will introduce in detail the new features of "Tamagotchi Uni", which has undergone a particularly significant evolution. Even those who have played Tamagotchi in the past will surely be surprised by its evolution!
Wi-Fi communication function
Playing with accessories together ©BANDAI
The Wi-Fi communication function is one of the biggest features of "Tamagotchi Uni". This feature allows you to communicate and connect not only with your friends but also with Tamagotchi from all over the world. Throughout the previous series, only the "Tamagotchi Uni" is equipped with Wi-Fi function.
Tamagotchi's metaverse "Tamaverse"
In "Tamagotchi Uni", a metaverse space called "Tamaverse" has been introduced. In this virtual world, you can interact with Tamagotchi from all over the world, participate in simultaneous events around the world, and enjoy shopping.
For example, you can enjoy a sense of immersion that has never been seen in Tamagotchi before, such as participating in the "Tamachingu Party" (Tamatching Party), which is like a matchmaking party where you can meet your destined partner from all over the world.
Smartphone linkage
With "Tamagotchi Uni", you can send it to your smartphone as a profile of Tamagotchi or a diary image that Tamagotchi you are raising. You may become more attached to the memories you spent with Tamagotchi because you can keep photos of them.
Game software linkage
By linking the Nintendo Switch™ and Nintendo Switch™ 2 game software "Tamagotchi no Puchipuchi Omisechi Omachido~sama!" and "Tamagotchi Uni", you can enjoy mini-games and receive limited items. If you like Tamagotchi, this is a content you should definitely check out.
Hosting an online event
By updating "Tamagotchi Uni" using the Wi-Fi function, you can participate in limited-time online events. In some cases, special items are distributed and events are held to interact with Tamagotchi from all over the world. This always creates new fun and allows you to continue playing for a long time without getting bored.
Tamagotchi's Care and Growth Map
From here, let's take a look at the basic care methods for Tamagotchi and the deep evolutionary mechanism.
How to take care of Tamagotchi
Basic care elements such as food, toilet, play, and discipline
Tamagotchi grows by taking care of them. There are four basic care: "food", "toilet", "play", and "discipline". If Tamagotchi is hungry, give it food, and if it signals to go to the toilet, clean it after. Play is an important factor in improving Tamagotchi's mood. "Discipline" is done when Tamagotchi is being selfishness, which greatly affects Tamagotchi's personality and future appearance.
Also, by playing mini-games and letting them go out, Tamagotchi's mood will improve and their affection will increase. By taking good care of these basic care, Tamagotchi will grow up healthy.
Marriage and childbirth
When Tamagotchi grows up and becomes an adult, it can "get married". It is also possible to marry your friend's Tamagotchi using the communication function.
When Tamagotchi get married, you have "children" between you and your friend. When a child is born, the parent Tamagotchi passes on the life to the next generation, and the player begins raising the child with a new feeling. By repeating this cycle of marriage and childbirth, you can continue to nurture Tamagotchi across generations.
Tamagotchi's growth map
How growth destinations change depending on how you grow them
©BANDAI
©BANDAI
One of the ways to enjoy Tamagotchi is the "growth map" where the growth destination changes depending on how you grow it. Whether you took good care of them, played a lot, or disciplined them properly, the appearance of Tamagotchi changes depending on the player's actions. If you skip taking care of them, you may grow into a mischievous Tamagotchi. The excitement of not knowing what kind of tamagochi will be next can also be said to be a factor in getting addicted to Tamagotchi.
New growth patterns in the latest model
By the way, the latest model "Tamagotchi Paradise" has more than 50,000 growth patterns available. Various factors such as how to take care of Tamagotchi, the field for raising Tamagotchi, and the food given affect the growth of Tamagotchi. Depending on how the player trained their Tamagotchi, they will grow into a completely different Tamagotchi, so you will be able to meet Tamagotchi with more personality.
Introducing Tamagotchi
When you think of Tamagotchi, many people think of cute and unique Tamagotchi. Finally, we will pick up and introduce some of the familiar and popular Tamagotchi.
Mametchi
It is characterized by large eyes and ears. It loves inventions and sports, and is the main character of Tamagotchi.
Kuchipatchi
It is characterized by a large mouth and a self-paced personality. It loves to eat, and the laid-back atmosphere is cute.
Mimitchi
It is characterized by long rabbit-like ears. It loves calculation drills and is good at calligraphy. It has a gentle personality, but also hates losing and is a hard worker.
Memetchi
It is characterized by swirling eyes. With itss fashionable and bright and energetic personality,it will liven up the world of Tamagotchi.
Furawatchi
It is characterized by flowers blooming on the head. It has a kind heart that loves flowers and nature, and is good at growing flowers. Because of its cute appearance and gentle personality, it is loved by everyone.
Summary
Since its release in 1996, Tamagotchi has been loved by many people. It has evolved with the times, and it is now possible to enjoy it in a different way than in the past. However, at the root of this is the charm that has remained unchanged since its release, such as the joy of nurturing life by taking care of them and the unique cuteness of the Tamagotchi. Whether you feel nostalgic or new to it, why not take this opportunity to start a new life with Tamagotchi?
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