Iconic robotic creature Furby makes a comeback as US toy giant Hasbro aims to captivate a new generation of children.

With its signature features like bulbous eyes, yellow beak, and vibrant fur, the new Furby retains its original charm. It communicates in its unique gibberish language and responds to affectionate gestures like hugs, pats, and tickles.

Hasbro's reintroduction of Furby coincides with a sluggish period in the toy industry, as demand has been slowing down.

After extensive research to meet children's preferences, the new Furby boasts over 600 programmed responses. It can follow commands, imitate sounds, showcase dance moves, and even be "fed".

Furby, introduced in 1998, swiftly gained global popularity, selling over 40 million units within the first three years, according to Hasbro.

The original Furby featured infrared eyes enabling communication between different units. It possessed the ability to "listen" to conversations and could be taught to say specific words with a gentle tap on its head.

Over time, Furby underwent several updates, including the replacement of its infrared eyes with two small LCD screens. Hasbro also created a smartphone and tablet app that translated Furby's unique sounds into English.

However, as interest in Furby waned, the toy was retired in 2016.

Hasbro's decision to reintroduce Furby aligns with its strategy to revive sluggish sales in the toy market.

In the company's most recent quarterly earnings report released in April, Hasbro anticipated a stagnant or declining toy and games market for the year. During the first quarter, the renowned maker of Monopoly board games witnessed a 14% decline in net revenue, attributed to decreased sales of NERF blasters, Play-Doh, and Peppa Pig toys.