In an exciting shift for the gaming industry, Nex, an American technology firm, is set to launch its groundbreaking new console, the Nex Playground, in the UK and Ireland on June 22. This unique cube-shaped device aims to encourage children to be more active, swapping traditional controllers for a fun and immersive experience that tracks body movements using built-in AI and a camera. With a successful debut in the US market, where it was the third best-selling console during Black Friday 2025, Nex Playground is ready to capture the hearts (and feet) of families across the pond.
A Fresh Approach to Gaming
The Nex Playground is not your typical gaming console. With a price tag of £269 (€319), this device prioritises physical engagement over cutting-edge graphics. It features over 60 games, including popular titles linked to beloved children’s shows like Peppa Pig. While players can enjoy five starter games for free, a subscription is required for full access, costing £90 annually or £45 quarterly.
Parents like Nick from Louisiana, who has been using the console for six months, initially hesitated over the subscription model. However, he quickly realised its value, noting that it offers significant savings compared to purchasing individual games on other platforms. “When you consider that a single Switch game costs about $70 or $80, it’s really not too egregious,” he remarked.
Setting Up and Getting Active
Setting up the Nex Playground is straightforward, with a user-friendly interface that appeals to both parents and children. The console uses its wide-angle camera to track 18 points on the user’s body, creating an on-screen avatar that mimics their movements. While some parents have pointed out that the motion tracking can feel less precise than legacy systems like the Wii or Xbox Kinect, overall, the experience is engaging.
As I tried my hand at games like Fruit Ninja and a rhythmic challenge set to A-ha’s “Take On Me,” the console adapted well to my living space. The immersion was impressive, with some games requiring minimal movement while others demanded a full-body workout. The Nex Playground also prioritises privacy, assuring users that the camera only tracks motion and does not save any video footage, complying with child safety regulations.
Balancing Screen Time
The Nex Playground enters the conversation about children’s screen time, offering a dynamic alternative to traditional digital entertainment. While players still engage with a television screen, the console encourages movement, combining fun with fitness. Parents I spoke to reported that their children typically engaged with the device for 30 to 60 minutes, often using it as a transition to other activities or structured play.
Brian, a Philadelphia parent, acknowledged the compromise of increased screen time but felt the interactive nature of the games offered more value than passive viewing. The console features a dedicated “Health & Fitness” category, including Zumba workouts led by on-screen instructors, making it an inviting option for families looking to incorporate more activity into their routines.
Future Prospects and Partnerships
Though the Nex Playground may not directly rival major consoles like the Nintendo Switch, its sales performance during Black Friday highlights its potential market appeal. Since its December 2023 launch in the US and Canada, the console has sold over a million units. Industry experts, including Chris Scullion from Video Games Chronicle, suggest that its family-oriented focus might make it a more appealing choice for parents seeking games reminiscent of the Wii Sports and Wii Fit era.
Alongside its UK and Ireland launch, Nex has announced a partnership with Wrexham AFC, introducing Nex branding to the club’s kit sleeves and engaging fans through community programmes. This strategic move could pave the way for the Nex Playground to establish itself as a crucial part of family entertainment, encouraging shared experiences and physical activity.
Why it Matters
The Nex Playground represents a significant step in redefining how children interact with gaming. By prioritising movement and family engagement, it addresses growing concerns about screen time while promoting a healthier lifestyle. As the gaming landscape continues to evolve, the Playground positions itself not merely as a console but as a catalyst for active play, potentially shaping the future of family gaming for years to come.
