Nex Playground is an Android-based family game console that uses no controllers — you use your body to play. It’s easy to set up, comes with games so you can play right away, and is designed to get you and your family moving. The built-in camera tracks motion and natural body movements and helps inspire families to get up and stay active.
Video games, VR, and virtual experiences are all incredible, and gameplay for most of these platforms gets better every day. But a lot of it lacks one, very important and healthy component — physical activity. As a parent, I don’t want my kids sitting around all day playing games, even if I am a gamer myself. Everyone requires a little exercise and movement. Well, the Nex Playground is designed explicitly for that.
It’s an Android-based console with a built-in camera to track natural body movements. Instead of using a gamepad, keyboard, mouse or controller, you use your body to interact with the system. Moreover, it comes bundled with a bunch of fun games to play right away. Titles include Fruit Ninja, Starri, Whac-a-mole, Go Keeper, and Party Fowl. You can also subscribe to the Play Pass to get access to a nearly unlimited catalog of games. Some of the other games included in that pass are Barbie, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Peppa Pig, Elmo, Miraculous Ladybug, Gabby’s Dollhouse, Kung Fu Panda and more.
The Nex Playground simply connects via HDMI to either a TV, compatible display or even a projector. Then, you boot it up and off you go.
Why is the Nex Playground such a great family game console?
The idea is to get you and your family moving, playing games like Fruit Ninja where you use your arms and body to slice on-screen fruit. I’m sure you’ve played the game before on your phone. Only, here, it involves using your body as I’ve described. That applies to all the games you can play on Nex Playground. They’re designed to entertain, keep you moving, and play with the whole family. There are no ads, no in-app purchases, and no mature content to worry about. Ages 5 and up can enjoy playing with this family game console.
If you’re like me, you probably saw mention of the built-in camera and felt a little uneasy. As if you need more surveillance level gear watching and recording your family, right? It does come with a camera cover so you can ensure you and your family retain your privacy when you’re not playing. That’s always a plus. All in, this console is a great option for families that want to have some fun and do it in a unique way. I’m definitely grabbing one for me and my kids.
Who is it for?
Families that love to play games together, whether board games, video games, or other puzzle-like challenges. Nex Playground makes it easy to pop-up and play with a ton of games included out-of-the-box and plenty more to choose from.
Where to buy?
MSRP: $200
Play Pass: $49 (3-months), $89 (12-months)
