Bandai · 1996 to 1998 · International release
Tamagotchi (original wave)
Bandai's handheld digital pets, created by Akihiro Yokoi of WiZ and Aki Maita of Bandai. The first wave of 1996 to 1998 sold about 40 million units and set off a worldwide virtual pet craze before the fad faded in 1998. Many themed versions of the first wave were sold in Japan only; this list covers the versions our sources confirm.
5 toys: 5 electronic toys, across 3 waves.
Released 1996
Released 1997
Released 1998
Original or reissue?
Bandai reissued the Generation 1 and 2 units in 2017 in new colours, plus a smaller Tamagotchi Mini; Tamagotchi Angel returned in 2025. The brand itself returned in 2004 with Tamagotchi Connection.
- Tamagotchi (Generation 1) has notes on telling an original from a reissue.
- Tamagotchi New Species Discovered! (Generation 2) has notes on telling an original from a reissue.
- Tamagotchi Angel has notes on telling an original from a reissue.
Values
Loose and carded or boxed copies are valued separately, from the median asking price of current eBay listings for genuine originals (reproductions, reissues, customs, lots and parts left out). Asking prices, not completed sales.
Missing a toy?
Add a figure, vehicle or playset we have not listed. We check every one before it goes into the catalogue.