John Legend is ready to feed you nostalgia (through Neopets’ comeback)
Photos from John Legend/Instagram and the Neopets website
Remember when we still aced at ticking off our responsibilities?
If all you could answer is silence, I get it—it’s probably a distant memory now. If you ever have the scarce ability to recall one, though, it might trace back to you sitting in front of your computer, hovering your cursor over this cute website called Neopets, and taking care of your equally cute pet. For some reason, your younger self knew what that virtual creature wanted, from basic needs to make it happy.
If you want to get that validating feeling of being a responsible adult (or you could just use a nice game), here’s some good news: Neopets, born in 1999, has made its comeback this 2023, ushering in a “new era” for both regulars and first-time players.
In an open letter posted on Medium, The Neopets Team (TNT) highlighted what to expect from their return-slash-makeover. The virtual playground is under a new leadership, has more resources in terms of “funding and an expanded team,” and is transitioning away from Metaverse and NFTs.
Neopets is back in the game
In an interview with The Verge, World of Neopia, Inc. CEO Dominic Law said, “We’re definitely ready to go full steam ahead, and hopefully, we can bring Neopets back to its glory days.”
When you try taking a peek, you’ll notice how much the website has been revamped to make it easier for players to navigate and see its offerings. This new version also promises over 50 flash games in store. The most unexpected update of all, though, is the birth of an ambassador—and it’s no less than John Legend.
View this post on Instagram
“You know the game, it’s a classic pet game, and it’s long been a favorite in our house, and I can’t wait to share the joy and nostalgia with all of you. So stay tuned, we have some amazing adventures together,” said the Grammy winner and “The Voice” coach in a video message on his social media platforms.
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Neopets’ official Twitter account also reacted to the clip using clever wordplay: “We’re looking forward to a LEGENDARY time together!”
Welcome to Neopia, @johnlegend! 💛 We’re looking forward to a LEGENDARY time together! 🥳 https://t.co/d7PmwhitH5
— Neopets (@Neopets) July 22, 2023
Neopets had its heyday in the 2000s. Apart from the excitement the gameplay offered to kids who were still discovering the vastness of the internet, it also built a community of players. Will it spark the same thrill in 2023?
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