What it is
The self-contained units are shaped like small houses. When the unit is activated, a black-and-white image of the character appears on the screen. Using buttons on the front of the unit, players can take their virtual friends through all kinds of different activities in the house.

The units are connectable for social play, and if you connect three together, you can unlock other expanded play features.

Why it’s fun
These V.F.F.s (“Virtual Friends Forever”) are funny little chatterboxes with a seemingly endless supply of jokes and silly phrases.

Unlike other virtual friends, Pixel Chix require more than just feeding and cleaning up after. They can play games, change fashions and more. If they are left ignored for too long, Pixel Chix will pack their bags and leave.

Who’s going to love it
Little girls have responded very strongly to the Pixel Chix. They love playing games with their virtual gal-pals and picking out outfits for the Chix to wear.

This will appeal largely to girls 7- to 10-years old who enjoy the various different games and activities.

One of the nice things about this versatile toy is that it lends itself either to quick play or more extended interaction, which is good for today’s kids.

The relatively small size means it fits right into a backpack.

What to be aware of
If your child’s Pixel Chix does abandon her house, this is not the end of the world. In fact, you can start the world all over again just by hitting the reset button.

Don’t be surprised if, as with Tamogatchi, kids become totally involved in the stories that they are creating. The play is open-ended enough to allow imaginative interaction as well.