A product that combines video games with robotic dogs. What more could anyone want this Christmas?

Announced earlier this year Wappy Dog is a video game and robotic toy combination that allows you to control the robotic dog with the DS game. It is a joint project between SEGA, who is manufacturing the toy, and Activision, who is creating the DS game, and it has just been announced that it will be out in time for Christmas in America. No word yet as to when it will be released in Europe but hopefully it will be released around the same time to take advantage of that big Christmas spending period.

The idea behind Wappy Dog is to give children a chance to raise a virtual pet in both the real and digital worlds and players can teach the dog tricks, play mini-games and even converse. Players will be able to customise their dog's colour and accessories, both the digital and real world versions, and control the robotic dog with their DS. The dog can do all the usual tricks such as wag its tail, raise its paw and even dance.

The title features two modes - home and travel. Players can interact with the dog in home mode but if they want to go out and about they can switch to travel mode and just interact with the virtual one. Upon their return the information is transferred and players can continue interacting with Wappy Dog.

With the ability to "talk", and even sing, and be translated by the DS this product is likely to do well with younger audiences. We'll keep you updated as to whether or not it will be released in Europe in time for Christmas but for now visit the official website for more information.