In an exciting move for family gaming, the Nex Playground is set to launch in the UK and Ireland on 22 June, aiming to revolutionise how children engage with video games. Forget traditional controllers; this cube-shaped console, developed by the US-based Nex, leverages AI and a built-in camera to inspire kids to get off the sofa and into action. As the third best-selling console in the US during Black Friday 2025, it has already made waves in the gaming industry, and parents are buzzing about its potential to combine fun with fitness.
A New Approach to Gaming
Unlike any console before it, the Nex Playground is designed to promote physical activity rather than just screen time. David Lee, the company’s CEO, states that the device’s primary goal is to get children moving. With over 60 games available—many tied to popular children’s franchises like Peppa Pig—the console invites players to interact through body movements, transforming the living room into a vibrant play space.
The Nex Playground is priced at £269 (€319) upon its UK release. While users can enjoy five starter games for free, accessing the full library requires a subscription. A yearly pass costs £90, while a quarterly option is available for £45. Some parents, like Nick from Louisiana, initially hesitated due to the subscription model but later found it a reasonable investment compared to traditional video game prices.
Seamless Setup and Engaging Gameplay
Setting up the Nex Playground is reportedly a straightforward experience, with an intuitive interface that welcomes users of all ages. As Corey from North Carolina shared, the system quickly adapts to any space, tracking 18 points on the player’s body to create a responsive on-screen avatar. However, some users have noted that while the camera technology is impressive, it might not always match the precision of older systems like the Nintendo Wii.
During my own experience, I found myself slicing virtual fruit in *Fruit Ninja* and grooving to *Take On Me* in the rhythm game *Starri*. While some games felt like simple tech demos, others provided a richer experience, turning family time into a fun workout. As Corey remarked, the subscription model alleviates concerns, allowing families to explore a diverse range of activities without the worry of additional costs.
Prioritising Privacy and Safety
Given the console’s reliance on camera technology, Nex has prioritised player privacy. Lee emphasised that the camera only tracks motion and does not store video data, processing everything locally. With a kidSAFE+ COPPA certification, the Nex Playground adheres to stringent regulations for protecting children’s online privacy. Additionally, the console includes features like a lens cover and parental controls to filter content, ensuring that families can manage their children’s gaming experience safely.
While the Playground does encourage increased screen interaction, many parents view it as a healthier alternative to more passive forms of entertainment. As Brian from Philadelphia pointed out, although they have embraced additional screen time, the console promotes active engagement in a way that traditional cartoons can’t match.
A Growing Presence in the Market
The Nex Playground may not directly compete with heavyweight consoles like the Nintendo Switch 2, which boasts over 17 million units sold, but its unique focus on active play could carve out a niche for itself. With recent sales figures showing over a million units sold in the US and Canada since its launch in December 2023, the device is proving to be a formidable entry in the gaming landscape.
As part of its UK launch, Nex has announced a multi-year partnership with Wrexham AFC, planning to feature its branding on the team’s kit sleeves and engage in community initiatives at the Racecourse Ground. This strategy could see Nex Playground not only establish itself as a gaming device but also as a catalyst for family connection and shared experiences.
Why it Matters
The Nex Playground represents a significant shift in the gaming industry, addressing ongoing concerns about children’s screen time while promoting physical activity. By prioritising movement and family engagement, it offers a fresh perspective on gaming that resonates with modern parents. As technology continues to evolve, the Playground is paving the way for a new era of interactive entertainment that encourages children to play actively rather than passively, helping families bond through shared, healthy fun.