E3 2011: Wappy Dog Is Great… for Little Kids

In the back of Activision's booth, amongst demos for Modern Warfare 3 and Prototype 2, was an unassuming, cute, little, plastic dog named Wappy. Wappy moves his head and legs, his eyes and cheeks light up, and he makes high-pitched barks. But the real way in which Wappy communicates is through the Nintendo DS, which serves as a translator of sorts.

Through the DS, kids can ask Wappy questions, feed him, and even tell him they love him, and Wappy's response appears on the top screen. Wappy can also play games against or with his owners and his moods will change based on how well he's doing in the game. If he's in too bad of a mood, he may refuse to do what his owner wants him to.

If kids are headed someplace where they can't take Wappy along, the game transforms into a pet sim with a number of mini-games. Upon returning, all the data is uploaded to Wappy, and he responds appropriately. Wappy also ages over time (though he doesn't die) unlocking more mini-games and conversation options.

Wappy is super cute. During my demo, I could imagine my little nieces having a blast petting and talking with the dog. However, unlike other pet sims that have an all-ages appeal, I can't see anyone over the age of eight enjoying Wappy Dog. Part of this is due to the physical toy, but part of it is also the simplicity of the mini-games and the kiddie look of Wappy.

But in the end, Activision doesn't want to sell Wappy to adults, and it's a pretty cool toy for kids.

• More 3DS & DS Previews
• Latest 3DS & DS News, Reviews, and Videos