Nex Playground motion-controlled gaming console cube connected to a TV, featuring an AI camera for active family gaming and fitness play.
Eric Monaghan 30 Oct 2025

What Nex Playground Offers for Families Who Want Active Gaming

Gaming usually means sitting still. That’s where Nex Playground changes the story. This compact console turns movement into the main way to play.

Your living room becomes an active space where jumping, swinging, and dancing control the action on screen. Nex Playground blends technology and movement in a way that feels natural and fun.

Parents often look for better balance between screen time and physical activity. Nex Playground answers that need with motion-based games designed for kids and families.

It uses an AI-powered camera to track full-body movement. No controllers. No wearables. Just space to move.

The system fits easily into everyday life. It connects to your TV, takes minutes to set up, and works well for short play sessions or longer family game nights.

With safety certifications and child-focused design, it feels built for real homes.

Nex Playground Turns Your TV Into an Active Gaming Hub

Nex Playground is a motion-controlled gaming system designed for full-body play. A built-in AI camera tracks movement in real time. Hands, arms, legs, and jumps become part of the game. Nothing needs to be held or worn.

The console supports up to four players at once. This makes it a strong choice for families, playdates, or small group activities. Games adjust to different skill levels, so younger kids and adults can play together without frustration.

The console itself is a small 3-inch cube. It connects to a TV using the included HDMI cable.

Once powered on, the system guides players through a quick calibration to match the room layout. KidSAFE+ COPPA Certification adds peace of mind by focusing on privacy and child safety.

Key Features at a Glance

  • Motion-controlled gameplay with AI body tracking
  • No controllers or wearables
  • Supports up to four players
  • Compact 3-inch cube design
  • KidSAFE+ COPPA Certified

Setup and First-Time Use

Nex Playground arrives with everything needed to start playing right away. Inside the box, there’s the console, AI camera, remote, magnetic camera cover, HDMI cable, and power adapter.

Setup is simple. Plug the console into the TV, position the camera, and power it on. The system walks through calibration to adjust for space and lighting. About six feet of open space works best, though smaller rooms still perform well.

Five games come preloaded, so play can start immediately. No downloads are required before the first session, which keeps the experience smooth and frustration-free.

What’s Included in the Box

  • Nex Playground console
  • AI motion-tracking camera
  • Remote control
  • Magnetic camera privacy cover
  • HDMI cable and power adapter
  • 64GB internal storage with five preloaded games

Game Library and Play Pass Options

The base Nex Playground system includes five games: Fruit Ninja, Starri, Party Fowl, Go Keeper, and Whac-a-Mole Deluxe. These games highlight different movement styles like jumping, dodging, swinging, and dancing.

For more variety, the optional Play Pass subscription expands the game library. Popular characters appear in many titles, including Bluey, Peppa Pig, Care Bears, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Barbie, Elmo, and How to Train Your Dragon.

Play Pass pricing runs about $49 for three months or $89 for a full year. Games remain free of ads and in-app purchases, keeping play sessions focused and kid-friendly.

Performance and Technical Details

Nex Playground includes 64GB of internal storage. Games can be downloaded and played offline after installation. This makes it useful for travel or homes with limited internet access.

Motion tracking responds quickly and accurately. Movements feel natural on screen, which keeps games engaging without feeling laggy. Software updates roll out regularly to improve tracking and add features.

No extra sensors are required. Everything works through the built-in camera system.

How Nex Playground Feels in Real Homes

This system encourages real movement. Players jump, twist, duck, and reach during gameplay. Heart rates rise, and energy stays high. It feels closer to playtime than traditional gaming.

Games support different ages and abilities. Kids stay engaged, and adults can join without feeling out of place. It works well during bad weather or busy days when outdoor play isn’t an option.

For families trying to reduce inactive screen time, Nex Playground offers a practical alternative that still feels fun.

Price and Overall Value

Nex Playground sells for $199 during promotional periods at retailers like Amazon, Target, and Best Buy. The regular price is $249.

The Play Pass subscription adds cost, though it isn’t required. Even without it, the included games offer solid replay value. Compared to traditional consoles or home fitness equipment, Nex Playground fills a unique middle ground.

It combines entertainment and physical activity without adding clutter or complex gear.

Who Nex Playground Works Best For

  • Families with kids ages 5–12
  • Parents seeking active indoor play
  • Homes with limited space
  • Group play and family game nights
  • Gifts that offer long-term use

Final Thoughts on Nex Playground

Nex Playground brings movement back into gaming. It turns screen time into something active, social, and engaging. The design feels thoughtful, from safety features to easy setup and flexible gameplay.

At its current price, it offers solid value for families looking to mix fun and physical activity at home.

Exploring Nex Playground on Amazon is a good next step, especially since there are other interactive options worth checking out too.