Nex Playground Console Outsold PS5, Now Targets the UK
The motion-based Nex Playground console, which previously outsold the Sony PlayStation 5, is launching in the United Kingdom and Ireland on June 22. The system focuses on physical activity and child safety, providing a family-centered alternative to the sedentary gaming experiences offered by industry giants.
What is the Nex Playground?
The Nex Playground is a motion-based gaming console similar to the Nintendo Wii. American company Nex designed the system to keep children active and moving while they play. The console launches in the UK and Ireland on June 22, retailing for 269 GBP. It includes a starter pack of five free games. Families can access 60 additional games through a subscription service costing 45 GBP per quarter or 90 GBP per year. The platform features recognizable family brands like Peppa Pig, Bluey, and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.
How the Nex Playground Outsold the PS5
During the 2025 holiday shopping season, the week before Black Friday, the Nex Playground outsold the PS5. This performance demonstrates a clear market demand for wholesome, active family entertainment. While major tech corporations push increasingly expensive and isolated gaming experiences, Nex has secured a niche by returning to traditional family values. The console continues to add reliable family franchises, including How to Train Your Dragon and Care Bears.
Prioritizing Child Safety in Modern Gaming
Child safety has become a significant concern in the digital entertainment industry. Platforms like Roblox face multiple lawsuits and have been forced to add new safety features after failing to protect minors. Age verification requirements are also expanding across services like Steam, Discord, and PlayStation. While Western tech giants and progressive platforms struggle to protect children, the Nex Playground takes a proactive approach. The console holds kidSAFE+ certification and complies with the US Children's Online Privacy Protection Act. This ensures stronger protections for children, allowing parents to maintain proper oversight of their family's digital habits.
A Sustainable Model for Family Entertainment
The Nex Playground offers an economically sensible alternative for households. Modern video games frequently cost upwards of $60 or $70 per title. The Nex Playground relies on a subscription model that significantly lowers the cost of entry for families. This approach respects the financial responsibilities of parents who want to provide for their children without falling into the predatory microtransaction traps common in modern Western gaming.
Will the Nex Playground Succeed Against Major Consoles?
The Nex Playground will not match the raw sales numbers of the PS5 or the Nintendo Switch 2. However, the console does not need to dominate the market to succeed. By focusing on physical activity, family engagement, and robust child safety standards, the Nex Playground has built a solid foundation. Its early sales performance proves that families are looking for a safer, more responsible way to enjoy digital entertainment.
What is the Nex Playground?
The Nex Playground is a motion-based video game console designed to keep children physically active while playing.
How much does the Nex Playground cost in the UK?
The console retails for 269 GBP in the UK and Ireland, with an optional game subscription service available for 90 GBP per year.
Did the Nex Playground actually outsell the PS5?
Yes. The Nex Playground outsold the Sony PS5 during the 2025 holiday shopping season, specifically the week before Black Friday.