A Widgets resource that includes a gallery, samples, tutorials, and community.

Animated penguins run around the desktop and jump off open windows. WinPenguins or the Linux/Unix version available. Free, licensed under the GNU GPL.

Free, interactive, animated programs including television and movie themes.

A tarantula and a MOPy fish, that can live on a PC as long as it is cared for and nurtured is offered. A free, limited run version is available.

Interactive characters for Windows that react when touched, and can be moved around the screen with the mouse.

Screen Mates in the categories of animals, cartoons, holidays, people and sports.

A hamster that will walk around, stuff its cheeks with food, unload the food, eat, sleep, groom itself and sleep. For Windows and Mac.

Animated characters as interactive companions, capable of speech and doing tasks, using Microsoft Agent Technology.

A virtual pet simulation that includes an online community.

Free Screen Mates characters and animals, for Windows 2000, XP and Vista.