In Japan, virtual pets and key chain-style games are mega-popular items. Many of the major video game companies have already made an entry into that market. Now, Capcom is making its entry into that market with Metal Walker, a new game/virtual pet.

　　As with many new virtual pets, Metal Walker features a pedometer, which counts your steps. As you walk/run, your robot walks/runs with you. This builds up your robot's strength so that when it comes to fighting, you'll beat your opponent into a bucket of bolts.

　　Speaking of fighting, yes - Metal Walker's got that too. A port on the top of the key chain opens up to allow two units to hook together and fight (it's not known yet if these are active or passive battles).

　　The unit comes in two colors and has a hatch to protect the screen from any scratches. There are four LED lights positioned around the edges of the LCD screen. Metal Walker's got three action buttons, and there's a compass and map feature too.

　　As you walk and raise your robot, it can evolve into a bigger, stronger robot. There are a couple different forms shown at Capcom's Metal Walker page, each with its own unique look. Of course, you've gotta work at it if you want to reach the final form.

　　Metal Walker goes on sale in Japan later this fall. No word on whether it will make its way across the Pacific.