If your Tamagotchi somehow survived the ’90s, congratulations: It’s old enough to celebrate a milestone birthday.
Bandai Namco Toys & Collectibles America is marking Tamagotchi’s 30th anniversary with a full-day fan event in Times Square on Nov. 22, followed by a 30-minute takeover of the neighborhood’s massive digital screens. The news was announced this morning, timed with the opening of New York Comic Con (NYCC).
The Tamagotchi Times Square Spectacular kicks off at 9 a.m. in Duffy Square, where fans can check out product displays, photo ops, giveaways, meetups, and appearances from Mametchi and Mimitchi. An exclusive trading card will also be handed out while supplies last.
Then, at 7 p.m., Tamagotchi heads for the big screens. Displays throughout Times Square will sync up for a special anniversary presentation featuring the brand’s familiar digital pets.
There’s a nice bit of timing behind the celebration, too. By the time the screens light up in New York, it will already be Nov. 23 in Japan — 30 years to the day since Tamagotchi first launched there in 1996.
The Times Square event is only part of the anniversary rollout. FAO Schwarz and MINISO are also getting Tamagotchi activations in November, while Roblox players can find a month-long takeover inside Main Street RP. Keep an eye on the official site for details on all activations.
And, FAO Schwarz is the perfect spot for a big activation as Tamagotchi made its U.S. debut there on May 1, 1997. Check out the video below!
Bandai Namco says more than 100 million Tamagotchi devices have shipped worldwide since launch.
Not bad for a pet that once lived on your keychain. Well, if you’re reading The Pop Insider, it probably still does.
