Ahead of the console's UK launch, David Lee and Thomas Kang discuss payments for developers, avoiding shovelware, and that all-important RRP
Pre-orders are already live for the UK and Ireland launch of the Nex Playground, which is set to ship towards the end of June. The console, aimed at families and utilizing motion-tracking technology similar to Microsoft's Kinect, unexpectedly outperformed the PlayStation 5 in gaming hardware unit sales in November 2025, placing it in third position.
The initial price of the system in the US was $249, but due to increased component costs driven by AI infrastructure expansion, the price rose to $299 in March. The UK launch price is £269.99, while it is €319 in Ireland. Nex CEO David Lee expressed the company's desire to offer a lower price but acknowledged the challenges posed by AI-driven pressures on gaming hardware manufacturers.
Nex President Thomas Kang is optimistic about maintaining the current price, stating confidence in sustainability for the near future. Kang highlighted the company's secure component supply for the year, expressing confidence in meeting demand. Despite not disclosing sales targets, Kang noted high demand, with the company aiming to ensure sufficient supply in the UK market throughout the year.
The Nex Playground includes five free games and offers additional games through a subscription model. Developers are compensated through various models, with a focus on creating a healthy ecosystem that rewards success over time. The company emphasizes quality over quantity in its game library, aiming to provide a curated selection for users.
Nex plans to introduce online multiplayer functionality while maintaining a cautious approach, ensuring parental consent for connections and optional multiplayer features.
