Tamagotchi to celebrate 30th anniversary with Times Square takeover
Tamagotchi will celebrate its 30th anniversary with a free, all-day fan event in New York’s Times Square on November 22, culminating in a special takeover of the area’s iconic digital screens. The celebration, organised by Bandai Namco Toys & Collectibles America Inc., will be the brand’s largest anniversary event to date.
The Tamagotchi Times Square Spectacular will run from 9 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. and feature interactive activities, product displays, photo opportunities, fan meetups, giveaways and appearances by the characters Mametchi and Mimitchi. At 7 p.m., screens across Times Square will display a special 30-minute anniversary presentation featuring fan-favourite Tamagotchi characters.
More than 100 million devices have shipped worldwide
The event will take place on the eve of the brand’s official anniversary in Japan, where Tamagotchi first launched in 1996. Senior Bandai representatives will join fans in New York to mark the milestone.
Since its debut, Tamagotchi has grown from a virtual pet phenomenon into a global pop-culture brand spanning play, collecting, fashion, lifestyle collaborations and customisation. More than 100 million devices have shipped worldwide.
“Technology and the way we connect have changed enormously in 30 years, but the simple emotional connection at the heart of Tamagotchi has not,” said Taro Tsuji, Chief Tamagotchi Officer. He described the Times Square celebration as an opportunity to bring longtime fans and a new generation together.
The anniversary programme
The anniversary programme extends beyond Times Square. An exclusive experience will launch at the FAO Schwarz flagship store at 30 Rockefeller Plaza in November, while MINISO will host Tamagotchi pop-ups at American Dream Mall in East Rutherford, New Jersey, and Barton Creek Square in Austin, Texas, from November 7 to 29.
Fans will also be able to take part in a digital anniversary experience on Roblox through Main Street RP from November 1 to 30. Additional promotions are planned with partners including MINISO, Bandai Namco Store, Bandai Namco Cross Store Brooklyn, Tamashii Nations Store New York and Gashapon Bandai Official Shop.
The Times Square event is free and open to fans of all ages. It will take place in Duffy Square, between 45th and 47th Streets, between Broadway and Seventh Avenue.