After reading through all the posts, I've noticed a lot confusion about Tamagotchis. So some general information follows to help you out. =]
In the U.S. Version 4 was released not too long ago.
In Japan they are supposedly on Version 8. Unfortunately I am finding conflicting information on this. BUT if they are on Version 8: the Version 4 in the U.S. and Version 8 in Japan are basically the same, just some cultural differences mostly. (Like different foods to eat, etc.)
If anyone can prove which version Japan is on, that would be greatly appreciated. (Such as an official link - not a personal webpage)
The "Microchimp" picture in an earlier post is not a fake of Tamagotchi, it's a Gigapet.
It's manufactured by Tiger.
The Tamagotchi Connection: U.S. Version
Tamagotchi Connexion: European Version
Tamagotchi Plus: Japanese Version
Versions 1-4 have the infrared ability to connect to each other. (Version 1 was manufactured in 2004)
The Original Tamagotchi does not have the infrared connector. (Manufactured in the 1990s)
Where to buy Tamagotchis:
Version 3 and 4 are available on Amazon.com with very good prices.
If you buy two Version 4s you get free shipping. (Over 25 dollar purchase qualifies you for free shipping)
Some shell case colors are more expensive then others.
Version 1 and Version 2 are not available in stores such was Wal*Mart, etc.
These can be found on sites such as Ebay and at garage sales, friends, second hand stores/thrift shops.
How to protect yourself on Ebay:
1) Do not buy Version 3 or Version 4 on Ebay. They are available brand new on Amazon.com for a MUCH cheaper price, they are an absolutely trusted seller, and the shipping is free if you spend over $25. I've seen some Version 4s on Ebay go for over $50 dollars... that is ridiculous. Do not pay more then 20 dollars for a Version 4. I paid $14.99 each for the two Version 4s I bought off Amazon.com
2) Check seller's feedback
3) Look at pictures very carefully.
4) Do not even bother to read the rest of the auction if there is no picture.
5) Do not even bother to read the rest of the auction if there is a stock picture.
(A stock picture is a picture that anyone can use and is not a picture of the actual item the seller is selling.)
6) Be wary of power sellers.
7) I am not sure of the prices on Original Tamagotchis, Version 1s, or Version 2s. They're not really worth getting because there are less features for a more expensive price (due to rarity). The only reason to get one is really nostalgia... or you're addicted. =3
8) Spend some time going through auctions. It should take a few days, pick a few auctions you are interested in that end soon, and see what price they go for.
9) Read the description carefully. Duh.
10) These are the available cases for Version 4:
https://www.tamagotchi.com/products/catalog1.php
(From the Official Tamagotchi Website.)
Examples of Authentic Version 3:
https://z.about.com/d/toys/1/0/e/9/GROUP-SHOT.jpg
(About.com)
Example of Authentic Version 2:
https://ec2.images-amazon.com/images/P/B000...ZZZZ_AA280_.jpg
(Amazon.com)
Example of Authentic Version 1:
https://www.freewebs.com/tamacraze101/Frame00006.BMP
(A little blurry, but best I could find at the moment)
And a very good and a must read explanation of all the Tamagotchi releases:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Tamag...inal_Tamagotchi
PICTURES OF FAKES
https://i166.photobucket.com/albums/u92/faketamas/th_5a_1.jpg
https://i166.photobucket.com/albums/u92/fak...s/th_b481_1.jpg
https://i166.photobucket.com/albums/u92/fak...s/th_B18_01.jpg
Above were all found on Ebay on April 17, 2007.
Note: All prices and denominations are in U.S. dollars