Desktop Animation
   Free Screen Mates characters and animals, for Windows 2000, XP and Vista.
   http://www.desktopanimation.net/

DesktopMates
   Animated characters as interactive companions, capable of speech and doing tasks, using Microsoft Agent Technology.
   http://desktopmates.com/

FunBeta
   Free Screen Mates and Message Mates. Screensavers, games and eye tricks are also available.
   http://digilander.libero.it/betaonline/

Global Beach Limited Virtual Creatures
   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.
   http://www.virtualcreatures.com/

Global Pets 2002
   A virtual pet simulation that includes an online community.
   http://www.mezaman.com/globalpets/home.asp

MP3 Dancers
   Tiny video dancers on the desktop, a different one for each music style.
   http://www.mp3dancer.com/

Oska DeskMates
   Interactive characters for Windows. Reacts when touched and can be moved around the screen with the mouse.
   http://www.oska.com/

TopDesktop
   Screen Mates in the categories of animals, cartoons, holidays, people and sports.
   http://www.topdesktop.com/mate1.htm

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

inDesktop
   Free, interactive, animated programs including television and movie themes.
   http://www.screenmates.com/