7th Level sets Tamagotchi CD-ROM
Wednesday June 18 8:42 PM EDT
DALLAS, June 18 (Reuter) - 7th Level Inc said Wednesday it will
create the definitive Tamagotchi CD-ROM in partnership with
Bandai Digital Entertainment Corp to leverage the overwhelming
success of the Tamagotchi virtual pet toy.
The CD-ROM is scheduled for the 1997 holiday season.
Bandai Digital is a new media company producing interactive
entertainment and educational multimedia products. It is the U.S.
subsidiary of Bandai Co Ltd (7967.T), maker of Mighty Morphin
Power Rangers line of action figures.
Much like the Tickle Me Elmo craze in 1996, 7th Level said,
Bandai expects demand of the Tamagotchi toy and accessories to
intensify through this year's holiday shopping season.
Tamagotchi, translated ``cute baby egg,'' has sold more than 12
million units worldwide with new shipments being sold as soon as
they arrive at retail. North American sales reached 3.5 million
units in its first month of sales ending June 1.
7th Level said the CD-ROM will have the same compelling
qualities as the egg. Additionally, the computer game will feature
expanded animation, story line and game options while
maintaining the personality and functionality of the toy.
The original toy was introduced in Japan in November 1996 where
it became an instant phenomenon with kids and adults.
Gene Morra, Bandai America vice president of marketing, said
while designed for children 8 years and older the typical
Tamagotchi buyer and user is 19 years old.
A second-generation product with additional features and colors,
currently in wide distribution in the United States, is expected to
extend the marketing cycle for the product, and the CD-ROM
should expand its reach and demographic appeal even further, 7th
Level said. |
