Ever look at a Tamagotchi and dream of it as Pokémon instead of some random pixelated monstutā? Well, that crossover happened before—in 2019. Fast forward to today, there is another toy where you can care for a Pokémon, but it ain’t no Tamagotchi. It is better. Folks, meet the ポケットモンスター ポケモン ポケなで モンスターボール, literally Pokémon Poké-nade Monster Ball. The “Poké-nade” part means Pokémon petting. Yep, you stroke, tap, or poke, and your digital monster reacts like an overexcited puppy.
The ball-shaped LCD toy [JP] reacts based on how you pet it. A gentle stroke earns you a smile, while persistent tapping might put your buddy to sleep. Keep it up, and you’ll unlock unique reactions depending on speed, duration, and your friendship level. There are seven featured partner Pokémon with full expressions and voice lines, including Pikachu, Eevee, Sprigatito, Fuecoco, Quaxly, Lucario, and Sylveon. Beyond them, 150 more Pokémon across nine regions await to be befriended, battled, and collected.
Every session is logged into a diary so you can relive your digital bonding history anytime. The device supports both Japanese and English, runs on 4 AAA batteries (not included), and measures a tidy handheld size at roughly 80 mm (~3.12 inches) in diameter.
The Pokémon Poké-nade Monster Ball drops on October 11, 2025, for 7,480 yen [JP] (which is about 51 USD based on the current going rate). Not cheap for a digital “cage” for your Pocket Monster pet. Then again, the fun is on the next level. Oh, just a friendly reminder that this “Poké Ball” is not to be thrown.
Images: Takara Tomy [JP].
Story via Kotaku.