In a world dominated by high-performance graphics and intricate gameplay, the Nex Playground is taking a refreshing approach. Set to launch in the UK and Ireland on 22 June, this innovative cube-shaped video game console by US tech firm Nex is all about encouraging children to get active. With its unique motion-tracking technology, the Nex Playground is aiming to transform screen time into a more physically engaging experience, sparking interest among parents and gamers alike.
Ditching Controllers for Movement
The Nex Playground stands out in the crowded gaming market by eliminating traditional controllers altogether. Instead, it utilises a built-in camera and artificial intelligence to track players’ movements, creating an avatar that mirrors their actions on-screen. This innovative approach to gaming could be the antidote to concerns about children’s sedentary habits and excessive screen time.
Research firm Circana recently revealed that the Nex Playground soared to the third spot among best-selling consoles in the US during Black Friday 2025, outperforming notable competitors like the Xbox Series S and X. Such unexpected success suggests that families are eager for alternatives that promote physical activity.
Pricing and Subscription Model
When it hits shelves in the UK and Ireland, the Nex Playground will retail for £269 (€319). Players will have access to five initial games for free, but to unlock the full library of over 60 titles—including delightful collaborations with popular children’s shows like Peppa Pig—a subscription will be necessary. The subscription pricing is set at £90 annually or £45 quarterly.
Nick, a Louisiana parent whose young children have been using the console for six months, expressed initial hesitation regarding the subscription cost. However, he quickly realised that when compared to the price of a single Nintendo Switch game, it was a reasonable investment. Brian from Philadelphia echoed this sentiment, noting the value of the active playtime the console provides.
Seamless Setup and User Experience
Setting up the Nex Playground is reportedly a breeze. Corey, a father from North Carolina, praised its user-friendly interface, which allows for quick configuration. The device tracks 18 points on the player’s body, providing a responsive and interactive gaming experience. However, Brian pointed out that while the camera technology is impressive, it sometimes lacks the precision found in older systems like the Wii or Xbox Kinect.
During my own trial with the console, I found myself slicing through virtual fruit in the game Fruit Ninja and dancing to A-ha’s “Take On Me” in a rhythm game. Some games felt more like demonstrations of technology rather than fully fleshed-out experiences, but the variety offered through the subscription ensured ample options for engaging play.
Prioritising Privacy and Safety
Nex places a strong emphasis on player privacy, with CEO David Lee stating that the camera is strictly for motion tracking and does not store video footage. All processing occurs locally on the device, ensuring compliance with the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA). Additionally, the console includes a lens cover and parental controls, allowing families to curate their children’s gaming experiences.
While the Nex Playground promotes active play, it still requires children to look at a screen, leading to some debate about how it fits into the larger conversation about screen time. Many parents reported that their children typically engage with the console for 30 minutes to an hour, using it as a stepping stone to other activities. For Brian, the console offers a way to encourage movement that traditional cartoons and movies simply cannot match.
A New Era of Family Gaming
Despite its niche focus, the Nex Playground has shown impressive sales figures, surpassing one million units since its launch in December 2023 in the US and Canada. However, some experts believe it may never compete directly with established giants like the Nintendo Switch 2. Yet, its emphasis on family-friendly gaming could make it a more appealing option for parents seeking alternatives to traditional gaming experiences.
To further expand its presence, Nex has announced a multi-year partnership with Wrexham AFC, featuring branding on the club’s kit sleeves and community programming at the Racecourse Ground. This strategy could position the Nex Playground not merely as a gaming console but as a catalyst for family interaction and wholesome entertainment.
Why it Matters
The Nex Playground represents a significant shift in the gaming landscape, prioritising physical activity and family togetherness in an era where screen time is often scrutinised. By transforming how children engage with technology and each other, the Nex Playground may pave the way for a new generation of gaming—one that blends fun, fitness, and familial bonding in a compelling package. As families increasingly seek ways to incorporate movement into their daily routines, this console could very well become a staple in homes across the UK and beyond.
