A revolutionary new entry into the gaming world is set to launch in the UK and Ireland on 22nd June. The Nex Playground, a cube-shaped console developed by American tech firm Nex, is designed not just for play but to inspire movement in children. With a focus on physical activity over cutting-edge graphics, this innovative device aims to tackle the ongoing debate about screen time by encouraging kids to get off the couch and get moving.
A Fresh Approach to Gaming
Unlike traditional consoles that rely on controllers, the Nex Playground employs motion-tracking technology powered by artificial intelligence and a built-in camera. This allows players to interact with games through their own movements, making for an engaging and active gaming experience. The console has already made waves in the US, ranking as the third best-selling console during Black Friday 2025, surpassing both the Xbox Series S and X.
As parents continue to grapple with the implications of screen time for their children, the Nex Playground offers a potential solution. I spoke with several parents in the US who are already using the console, hoping to see if it truly lives up to its promise of promoting fitness and family fun.
Pricing and Subscription Model
When it debuts in Britain and Ireland, the Nex Playground will be priced at £269 (€319). Users will receive five starter games for free, but a subscription will be required to gain access to the full library of over 60 games, including popular titles like Peppa Pig. The subscription options are fairly flexible, with a yearly plan costing £90 and a quarterly one available for £45.
Nick from Louisiana, a father of two young children, expressed initial hesitation over the subscription model but eventually found it reasonable compared to the cost of individual games on other platforms. “When you consider that a single Switch game can set you back about $70 or $80, it’s not too bad,” he said. Brian, another parent from Philadelphia, echoed this sentiment, noting that the value offered by the Playground is significant when compared to other forms of entertainment.
Seamless Setup and Engaging Gameplay
Setting up the Nex Playground is reportedly a breeze, with a straightforward interface that even non-tech-savvy parents can navigate. The console tracks up to 18 points on a player’s body using AI, creating an avatar that mimics their movements on-screen. While some users have noted that the camera’s tracking can be less precise than older systems like the Wii or Xbox Kinect, the overall experience is still engaging.
During my hands-on time with the console, I tried a variety of games, from slicing virtual fruit in Fruit Ninja to keeping the beat in a rhythm game. The experience was largely fun and energetic, though I found that some games felt more like demonstrations of technology rather than fully fleshed-out experiences. The subscription model alleviated the pressure of choosing which games to play, allowing me to explore freely.
Privacy Considerations
With the console’s camera capturing player movements, Nex has made player privacy a top priority. David Lee, the CEO of Nex, assured users that all motion data is processed locally on the device and not stored in the cloud. The camera also includes a lens cover, and parents have the option to restrict access to certain games or music that they feel might not be suitable for younger players. The device has also received kidSAFE+ COPPA certification, ensuring compliance with regulations designed to protect children’s online privacy.
The Screen Time Debate
While the Nex Playground offers a unique alternative to passive entertainment, it does still involve screen time. Parents I spoke to reported that their children typically engaged with the console for about half an hour to an hour per session. For many, the console serves as a bridge to other activities, providing a structured way for kids to play while incorporating movement. Brian mentioned that while getting a Playground meant accepting a bit more screen time, the games were more interactive and engaging than traditional cartoons or movies.
In my experience, the initial selection of games did include some light arm movements, but the more active options truly got me moving. The full subscription pass includes a “Health & Fitness” category, featuring daily workouts such as Zumba sessions led by an on-screen instructor, which I found to be a convenient way to incorporate fitness into my routine.
Looking Ahead
Although the Nex Playground may not directly compete with established giants like the Nintendo Switch, its performance during Black Friday suggests it has carved out a niche in the market. Nex has reported sales exceeding a million units since its launch in December 2023 in the US and Canada. Chris Scullion, deputy editor of Video Games Chronicle, believes that while the Playground may not rival other consoles, its family-friendly focus could make it a more appealing choice for parents seeking a modern alternative to the Wii Sports or Wii Fit experience.
In addition to its UK and Ireland launch, Nex has also announced a partnership with Wrexham AFC, which will see Nex branding featured on the club’s kit sleeves and community initiatives at the Racecourse Ground. This strategy could position the Nex Playground not just as a gaming device but as a central part of family bonding and active play.
Why it Matters
The Nex Playground represents a significant shift in how we think about gaming and physical activity for children. As families increasingly seek ways to balance screen time with movement, this console offers an innovative solution that combines play with fitness. By fostering active play, Nex could very well redefine the family gaming experience, encouraging healthier habits in a generation that spends more time than ever engaged with screens. The success of the Playground may not just influence the gaming landscape, but also contribute to a more active lifestyle for kids, making it a development worth watching closely.