Doko Demo Issyo is often described as a Virtual Pet game, but unlike many games of that genre, Doko Demo Issyo includes a communication element. When the game is started, the player inputs their name, gender, blood type and birthday and chooses one of the five Pokepi to live and play with. The setting of the game is a small one bedroom Japanese apartment. It contains various comfort items like a refrigerator and a television set with a game console connected. The floor of the room is covered with Tatami mats, and the Pokepi will sleep on them when they are tired. There are two other rooms of the apartment, a small restroom and a bathroom. There is a radio that they will sometimes listen to too.