Giga Pets were a popular line of virtual pets created by Tiger Electronics. They were first released in 1997 and quickly became a global sensation. Giga Pets were small, handheld devices that allowed users to care for and interact with a virtual pet on a digital screen.

When Did Giga Pets Come Out?

Design

Giga Pets were typically made of plastic and had a simple design. They featured a small, monochrome LCD screen surrounded by a few buttons. The buttons allowed users to feed, clean, and play with their virtual pet. Some Giga Pets also had additional features, such as a clock and alarm, and they were available in a variety of colors and designs.

Gameplay

Giga Pets were relatively simple to play. Users would start by selecting a virtual pet from a variety of options. The pet would then need to be fed, cleaned, and played with on a regular basis. If the pet's needs were not met, it could become sick or even die. The goal of the game was to keep the virtual pet alive and healthy for as long as possible.

Popularity

Giga Pets were a huge success. They were sold in over 40 countries and sold over 15 million units worldwide. The toys were particularly popular with children, who enjoyed the ability to care for and interact with a virtual pet. Giga Pets were also praised for their educational value, as they taught children about responsibility and pet care.

Decline

The popularity of Giga Pets began to decline in the early 2000s. The release of more advanced handheld gaming devices, such as the Game Boy Advance and the Nintendo DS, led to a decline in interest in virtual pets. Giga Pets were also discontinued by Tiger Electronics in 2005.

Legacy

Despite their decline in popularity, Giga Pets remain a popular collectible item. Many people who grew up with Giga Pets still own and cherish their toys. Giga Pets have also been featured in several movies and television shows. In 2017, a documentary film called "Giga Pets: The Rise and Fall of a Digital Dynasty" was released. The film explored the history and impact of Giga Pets.