Nintendogs will launch later this year in North America, a game in which "owners" interact with and train a variety of breeds of digital puppies (what is up with all the pooch action lately?), giving voice commands, playing games and "developing real emotional bonds" (we'll have to see it to believe it).

ENGADGET: Nintendo Revolution to include backwards compatibility and WiFi

Companies that are successful in creating both emotional and functional bonds have far higher retention rates than those who do not (84% vs. 30%), as revealed a study by IBM.

FORBES: How Groupon Can Regain Ground

But more important than fashion or sex, it's the emotional security that primarily comforts me inside these special bonds, especially during life's worst moments.

CNN: Gay men, straight women: enduring bonds