Japanese girls are apparently crazy over the concept of virtual boyfriends.

Webkare (Web Boyfriend in Japanese) is a mix between a social network and a dating simulation site. Geared exclusively toward girls, the site had 10,000 members just five days after its release on September 10, racking up 3.5 million page views. Girls sign up and become members of a social network and also users of a dating simulation in cartoon style.

The game is to hook up with one of four male Anime characters through "conversations" and must collaborate with other Webkare members in order to move on in the game. The big idea is that they conquer the heart of the chosen cartoon boy.

When they sign up they choose between one of four different male cartoon characters they want to hook up with upon registration. They can then "communicate" with their digital crush in cartoon-like plot which reads like a comic soap opera.

Takes all sorts.

More here.