Neopets

Thinkway Toys
Ages 4 and Up

What It Is

Neopets are adorable little creatures that reside online in one of the fastest growing virtual communities (neopoets.com). In fact, more than seventy million people worldwide have started raising their own online critters. Members, known as “Neopians,” create, care for and play with their own customized online pets through various games, activities and adventures.

For the Neopians in search of an offline component to their online community, the popular creatures have been brought to life in various sizes, designs and even a trading card game version. The plush and plastic Neopets are highly expressive electronic pets that interact with you. They make noises, move and put on flashy little light shows that let you know exactly how they feel. Neopets respond to your voice, which directly affects their moods. If you shout at a Neopet, it will let you know it’s unhappy and complain. Talk softly and it’ll be pleased which results in lots of giggles and happy noises. The plush Neopets are soft, cuddly and too cute, while the plastic versions are small and incredibly life-like.

Why It’s Fun

Nurturing play is one of the most classic of all play patterns, whether it’s a doll, stuffed animal or even a live pet. Electronic pets continue to fascinate us and the technology that goes into these little buddies keeps making them more life-like. The electronics increase the number of variables, allowing the toys to respond in different and unpredictable ways. As a result, these Neopets possess so much character and attitude that they really appear to be alive. If left alone for a while, they will find ways to entertain themselves, like singing a little song or moving around.


Who’s Going To Love It
You don’t have to be a member of the online Neopets community to love these little toys. If you ever owned a Tamagotchi or similar virtual pet, you will probably love Neopets. These have the benefit of being much simpler, delivering all the fun of creative, nurturing play without the threat that the creature is going to die or that dad has to tend to it in important meetings to make sure it evolves appropriately.


What To Be Aware Of

Neopets have over 30 sounds including giggles and songs. Batteries are included.

Suggested Retail Price

Approximately
$8.99 - Small Plush
$12.99 – Small Interactive
$29.99 – Large Plush

Available At

Most major retail and toy stores and online e-commerce sites.