The popular motion-based gaming console, Nex Playground, will see a $50 price hike starting April 1st. The console will jump from $249 to $299 as the manufacturer, Nex, cites unsustainable production costs. This move affects anyone considering the device for their kids, and it’s worth understanding why this is happening now.
Why the Price Jump?
Nex CEO David Lee explains that rising component costs – particularly for memory (DDR) and storage (eMMC) – are the primary driver. These increases aren’t unique to Nex; they reflect a broader trend in consumer electronics. The surging demand for these components is fueled by the rapid growth of artificial intelligence infrastructure, which requires massive amounts of memory and storage. A global shortage is also exacerbating the problem.
Essentially, the same tech powering AI is now making kids’ gaming consoles more expensive.
The Subscription Stays Steady
Despite the hardware price increase, Nex is keeping its Play Pass subscription at $89 per year. This gives access to over 50 games, with new titles added regularly, making it a competitive value compared to traditional console games which often cost $40+ each.
What Makes Nex Different?
Nex Playground isn’t competing with Xbox or PlayStation. It’s designed for younger children and families with simple, motion-based games featuring characters like Bluey and the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. The focus is on getting kids active while entertained, a key differentiator from button-mashing competitive titles.
Last Chance to Buy
If you’ve been considering a Nex Playground, now is the time to buy before the price goes up. The console fills a unique niche in the gaming market, and the price increase will make it less accessible to some families.
The rising costs of components are impacting consumer tech across the board. This price adjustment is a clear signal that these pressures aren’t going away anytime soon.
