(Please see update below this guide)
Tamagotchis are nearly the most popular toy among children and adults alike. Everywhere you look, tamagotchis are being advertised, sold and resold. But, how can you decide what the fair market value is for these little virtual darlings? Recently, the newest version - 2008 Version 5 Familitchi was released in the United States. Their cost you may ask? $14.99 in the stores, such as Toys R Us, Walmart and other retail stores that cater to family and children. But, if you aren't careful, you may spend twice that on Ebay - I have researched and found they have been selling from $28 and up on Ebay with high shipping. Just a day ago I actually found a seller that was selling the same product for $19.00. Why? PowerSellers tend to get their hands on these cuties and quickly place them on Ebay as "Rare". I contacted Bandai directly and spoke to a Representative and found that these are being bought up and sold for double their actual value. Bottom line? The high cost of these tamagotchis that you find here on Ebay only reflects how badly you really want it, not their true value. I personally really want one of these new tamagotchi versions, but $28.00 + 7.00 shipping isn't worth it to me. I would rather drive to my local retailer and purchase it for $14.99. Remember, these will be played with and maybe thrown in the back of the closet or resold on Ebay. What is the tamagotchi really worth to you? Shop wisely.
There are many colors available.
UPDATE:
I purchased my 2008 V5 Tamagotchi at Walmart today for - $14.00 and was able to pick up a few other goodies. Walmart is having a 50% - 75% clearance on the 2006-2007 tamagotchi items. The PC Tamagotchi set is now $15 - $17.00 - Gotchi charms are now $1.00 and the pouches are $2.00 - $3.00
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