In an exciting move to revolutionise children’s gaming, Nex, a US-based tech firm, is set to launch its innovative console, the Nex Playground, in the UK and Ireland on 22 June. This cube-shaped device prioritises physical activity over cutting-edge graphics, using artificial intelligence and a built-in camera to encourage kids to get off the couch and engage in movement-based play. With a growing concern among parents about children’s excessive screen time, this console aims to blend fun with fitness, providing an engaging alternative for families.
A Fresh Approach to Gaming
Gone are the days when gaming solely revolved around controllers and sedentary play. David Lee, the chief executive of Nex, believes that the Nex Playground is a game changer in how children interact with gaming technology. The console, which has already made waves in the US by becoming the third best-selling console during Black Friday 2025, replaces traditional controllers with body movements, encouraging players to move and dance as they play.
This unique approach is not just about fun; it’s about fostering a healthier lifestyle among the younger generation. As parents grapple with the effects of screen time on their children, the Nex Playground offers an enticing solution that combines entertainment with physical activity.
Pricing and Subscription Model
When the Nex Playground launches in the UK, it will retail for £269 (€319). Each console comes with five starter games, but access to its extensive library of over 60 titles requires a subscription. Users can choose between an annual subscription for £90 or a quarterly plan at £45, which some parents see as a cost-effective alternative to traditional video game purchases.
Nick from Louisiana, who has been using the device with his children for six months, expressed initial hesitation regarding the subscription model. However, he noted that, compared to the price of a single Nintendo Switch game, the subscription offers considerable value. Brian, another parent from Philadelphia, echoed this sentiment, emphasising that the console provides excellent value for money given the hours of active play it encourages.
Setting Up and Getting Active
Setting up the Nex Playground is straightforward, with many users praising its user-friendly interface. The console’s technology is fascinating; it employs AI and a wide-angle camera to track up to 18 points on the player’s body, creating an interactive avatar that mirrors their movements. While some users have reported that the tracking can feel less precise compared to older systems like the Nintendo Wii, the overall experience remains engaging.
During my own trial, I was quickly immersed in games like Fruit Ninja and a rhythm game featuring A-ha’s “Take On Me”. While some of the games felt like mere showcases of technology, others offered more substantial gameplay. The subscription’s offerings include a dedicated “Health & Fitness” category, featuring activities like Zumba workouts that come complete with an on-screen instructor, making it easier to stay active in the comfort of your living room.
Privacy and Security
With privacy being a significant concern for parents, Nex has taken steps to ensure that player data is protected. David Lee emphasised that the camera is strictly for motion tracking and that no footage is saved or uploaded to the cloud, ensuring a safe gaming environment for children. The Playground has also received kidSAFE+ COPPA certification, signalling compliance with stringent privacy regulations for children’s online activities.
The Screen Time Dilemma
While the Nex Playground encourages physical activity, it still involves screen time, which remains a contentious issue. Parents I spoke with reported that their children typically engage with the console for around 30 minutes to an hour per session, often using it as a stepping stone to other activities. Brian acknowledged that while increased screen time comes with the device, the games promote active play in a way that traditional cartoons cannot.
Despite my initial hesitation about whether I would work up a sweat, I found that the more dynamic games certainly got my heart rate up. The full-body movements required in some activities felt less like a chore and more like fun, reinforcing the console’s promise of blending entertainment with fitness.
Looking Ahead: The Nex Playground’s Potential
Though the Nex Playground may not directly compete with major consoles like the Nintendo Switch, its recent sales performance indicates a growing interest in this alternative gaming approach. Nex has announced a multi-year partnership with Wrexham AFC, aiming to integrate its branding into the club’s community initiatives, further enhancing its family-friendly image.
As more families seek interactive and active gaming solutions, the Nex Playground could carve out a niche that focuses on collective play and health. The console’s design speaks to a future where families can bond over fitness-oriented games while enjoying the digital age’s conveniences.
Why it Matters
The launch of the Nex Playground represents a significant shift in the gaming landscape, particularly as concerns about children’s health and screen time continue to rise. By prioritising movement and active play, this console not only entertains but also promotes a more active lifestyle among kids. As parents seek ways to engage their children in healthier activities, the Nex Playground could very well lead the charge in redefining what it means to have fun in the digital age.
