For those of you who don't know, and there probably aren't many of you, Neko Atsume, or Kitty Collector as it is sometimes called, is an app that has taken over both iPhone and Android users alike. The purpose is simple — collect all of the virtual cats.
As of the most recent update, there are 53 of those. You are given a starting number of both silver and gold fish, the currency used in the game. Silver are given after cats visit your yard and the amount given depends on the item the cat used, how long they stayed and the cat's power level. There are "goodies" that you purchase for cats, 150 to be exact and they range in price from 10 silver fish to about 150 gold.
There's really nothing complicated about the game. You set out food and toys, cats play, they give you fish, you buy more food and more toys and collect more cats. I was introduced to it by a friend a few months ago and I've been hooked ever since. There's no winning or competition, just showing others the cats that have visited you and taking pictures of them playing with their toys. It's an app that simply brings a smile to my face every time I open it and you could say I'm a bit obsessed. If you think you are too, check out the signs below. If you can check off the majority of them, congratulations, you're as Kitty Collector committed as myself and thousands of others.
1. When someone brings up Tubbs, you have a strong opinion one way or the other. There is no in between when it comes to Tubbs.
2. You pride yourself in having collected most if not all of the cats.
3. You've remodeled to just about all of the possible options and switch it up.
4. You know which toys attract which cats, and you keep said toys out to attract your favorites.
5. You have a favorite cat. Don't deny it. Whether it's the Nihilistic Billy the Kitten or the Regal Xerxes IX, you're prepared to argue over which cat trumps all.
6. You know not to refill the food while Tubbs is still sitting there — but you've made the mistake before.
7. You pride yourself in having collected the rare cats.
8. You don't dare put out Thrifty Bits — that's a beginner's move and your cats deserve better.
9. You know the theme song. Someone in a crowded room could check the app, and as soon as you hear the song, you will look up. If the person forgets their volume was on, they'll look up as well, and you will have an unspoken bond — maybe you'll even show them your yard.
10. Whenever your phone is low on space, Neko Atsume will be the one app that never gets deleted. You don't want to start all over!
