Ali returns to the show to lead Janine and Austin in an exploration of contemporary Tamagotchi culture, focusing on the recent Tamagotchi Uni and brand new Tamagotchi Paradise releases, before diving headfirst into one of the clearest ways that gambling/gacha culture is spreading into the mainstream: The Pop Mart Hint System.

Also: You can put your finger into it and touch the slimy button. 

Show Notes

Further Info on How and Why to Call Payment Processors 

Someone Did Surgery to a Tamagotchi Paradise

Official Punirunes Quick Start Guide — here’s how to play!

Parasocial Relationships in Social Contexts: Why do Players View a Game Character as Their Child? (Re: Travel Frog familial status)

Chapters
00:00 Introduction
03:51 The World of Contemporary Tamagotchi
55:51 Pop Mart and the Labubu Culture
01:40:44 Punirunes: The Slimy Virtual Pet You Must Touch
01:52:22 Call the Payment Processors!

Featuring Austin Walker, Janine Hawkins, and Ali Acampora

Produced by Austin Walker

Cover Art by A Liang Chan 

Music by Jack de Quidt