In an exciting development for parents and children alike, Nex, a US-based tech company, is set to launch its groundbreaking video game console, the Nex Playground, in the UK and Ireland on 22 June. Unlike traditional gaming systems that rely heavily on advanced graphics and hardware, this unique cube-shaped device prioritises physical activity by transforming body movements into gameplay. By utilising AI and an integrated camera, the Nex Playground aims to tackle the pressing issue of children’s sedentary lifestyles – all while ensuring fun and engagement.
A New Era of Gaming
The Nex Playground has already made waves in the gaming community, emerging as the third best-selling console during Black Friday 2025 in the US, surpassing established giants like the Xbox Series S and X. This impressive feat has drawn attention to the console’s innovative approach to gaming, which is designed to address growing concerns about excessive screen time among children. As parents seek ways to keep their kids active, the Nex Playground offers a refreshing alternative to conventional gaming experiences.
Pricing and Subscription Models
Set to retail at £269 (€319) upon its UK launch, the Nex Playground includes five free starter games to ignite interest. However, to access the extensive library of over 60 games, users must subscribe to the Play Pass service. The subscription options include a yearly plan priced at £90, or a quarterly plan for £45. Nick, a Louisiana parent with a three- and five-year-old, expressed initial hesitance about the subscription cost. “But when you consider that a single Nintendo Switch game can cost around $70 or $80, it’s really not too bad,” he remarked, echoing the thoughts of other parents who see value in the offering.
Easy Setup and Engaging Gameplay
User experiences have highlighted the Nex Playground’s straightforward setup process, making it accessible for families. The console employs a wide-angle camera that tracks 18 points on a player’s body to create a corresponding avatar on-screen. While some users, like Brian from Philadelphia, noted that the tracking technology may not be as refined as older systems such as the Nintendo Wii or Xbox Kinect, many found the gameplay engaging. “The initial setup was extremely smooth, and the interface is simple and easy,” Corey, a parent from North Carolina, shared.
As I experienced the console myself, I was pleasantly surprised by the variety it offered. The camera quickly adapted to my modest living space, allowing me to slice virtual fruits in a game reminiscent of Fruit Ninja and dance along to the rhythm of A-ha’s “Take On Me.” Some titles felt less substantial, but the overall experience was enjoyable and prompted movement, which is the core aim of the Nex Playground.
Privacy and Safety First
With the introduction of a camera into homes, Nex prioritises player privacy. David Lee, the company’s CEO, emphasised that the device only uses the camera for motion tracking, processing data locally rather than in the cloud. The Playground holds a kidSAFE+ COPPA certification, showcasing compliance with regulations that protect children’s online privacy. Additionally, the console comes equipped with a lens cover and parental controls to ensure age-appropriate content is accessible.
The Balancing Act of Screen Time
While the Nex Playground encourages physical activity, it does prompt a conversation about screen time. Nick pointed out that while children are still looking at a screen, the console’s interactive nature provides a compromise, motivating them to be active. Parents reported that their kids typically engaged with the console for 30 minutes to an hour per session, often transitioning into other activities afterward. “While we did compromise on increased screen time, the games encourage active play in a way that typical cartoons or movies cannot,” Brian noted.
For those wondering about the intensity of the workouts, the initial games included less rigorous movements, but the full Play Pass features a dedicated “Health & Fitness” category, offering sessions like daily Zumba workouts with an on-screen instructor. While I may not have nailed every step, I found the experience invigorating and more convenient than heading to a gym.
A Family-Centric Future
Though the Nex Playground may not directly rival major consoles, its sales performance during Black Friday indicates it has carved out a niche for itself. With over a million units sold since its launch in December 2023 in the US and Canada, it has proven its appeal. Chris Scullion, deputy editor of Video Games Chronicle and a parent, suggests that while it may never challenge devices like the Nintendo Switch 2, its focus on family play makes it a compelling option for parents seeking a modern alternative to the Wii Sports or Wii Fit experience.
Nex has also unveiled a multi-year partnership with Wrexham AFC, which will see their branding integrated into the club’s kit sleeves and community engagement initiatives. This strategic move could pave the way for the Nex Playground to thrive not just as a gaming console, but as a tool for families to connect and enjoy shared experiences.
Why it Matters
The Nex Playground represents a significant shift in how video games can influence children’s health and wellbeing. In an age where screen time is a contentious topic, this innovative console not only captures the joy of gaming but also encourages physical activity in a fun and engaging way. As families navigate the challenges of modern life, the Nex Playground offers a valuable solution for keeping kids active while enjoying quality time together. Its potential success could inspire future developments in family-oriented gaming, making it a noteworthy player in the industry.
