The ’90s are calling, and they think virtual pets are ready for a comeback — but with 2023 tech.
Today, Niantic — the company behind Pokémon Go! — launched a new mobile game called Peridot. Inspired by popular virtual pet games of the past, such as Tamagotchi, Neopets, and Nintendogs, this game features creatures called Peridots (or more casually, “Dots”).
As with many of its virtual pet predecessors, these colorful creatures hatch from eggs and grow from babies to adults with the help of the gamer. This time, however, the virtual pet is designed to interact with the world around you. Using a combination of augmented reality (AR) and artificial intelligence (AI), players can see their Dots move around and interact with real objects. They are able to recognize elements such as water, grass, and other animals, then react accordingly.
Players, referred to as Dot “Keepers,” are also prompted to engage with and care for their Dots. This includes playing fetch, teaching them tricks, and “petting” them. But the app is also designed to go beyond screen time and encourage players to be active. You can also earn XP points and items for your Dots by completing quests, which include tasks like going outside to find a tree. There are social elements in the app as well — two users’ Dots can actually team up to hatch an all-new Dot.
Here at The Pop Insider, we got an early look at the Peridot app and what it has to offer. To start, we’ll say that the Dots are simply adorable and clearly designed to appeal to all ages. There are endless Dot design possibilities, too, so every Dot is unique. The app also encourages activity without overloading you. At least for now, the push notifications are minimal, which makes the app feel less like a chore. While these creatures aren’t licensed characters that you’ll recognize, this game experience is sure to make ’80s and ’90s kids feel nostalgic, while offering a next-gen virtual pet that Gen Alpha kids will actually be excited to engage with.
But here at The Pop Insider, we’re all about the merch. And Peridot offers something innovative in that department, too. Niantic has partnered with Amazon to launch a new experience that integrates Amazon shopping directly into the app, which is a first for the online retailer. When users click on the store within the Peridot app, they can purchase a variety of virtual items for their Dots, which is a common feature in many mobile games. However, there is also a “Merch” section in the shop, where users can purchase a variety of physical items featuring Paridot graphics. There’s no need to put in all of your credit card information or shipping address. Instead, you can sign into your Amazon account and make purchases that will be fulfilled and shipped by Amazon, all without leaving the Peridot app.
This is the first time Amazon has launched this type of in-game shop, but it will not be the last. As Amazon becomes a nearly ubiquitous online retail option for shoppers, it’s easy to imagine these types of easy-to-use shops coming to a variety of video games, streaming services, and other online spaces to provide physical products more conveniently. At the time of launch, the physical Peridot merch includes a T-shirt, two long-sleeved shirts, a hoodie, a PopSocket, and a throw pillow.
Anyone who is interested in joining the Peridot Keeper Society can download the app now for free on the App Store and through Google Play. Peridot is free to play, and more information is available at playperidot.com.
