In an age where digital entertainment often leads to sedentary lifestyles, active gaming systems are emerging as a transformative solution for families seeking to combine fun with physical activity. These innovative platforms leverage technology to create engaging experiences that encourage movement, making them an ideal choice for parents looking to foster healthy habits in their children while also spending quality time together. One of the most exciting developments in this space is the Nex Playground, which was highlighted by David Lee, the company's CEO and Co-Founder.
The Nex Playground is an active play system designed specifically for kids and families, featuring a motion-tracking camera that connects to a television. This system not only provides entertainment but also promotes physical activity through a diverse library of games. With nearly 60 games available, families can choose from a variety of interactive experiences that challenge players to use their bodies in dynamic ways.
The design of the Nex Playground is user-friendly, featuring a wide-angle camera that tracks movement within a 172-degree field, allowing for a comprehensive view of the living space. This capability enables the system to create immersive gaming experiences that respond to players' movements in real-time. For example, in games like "Fruit Ninja," players can slice virtual food with their body movements, while "Home Run Heroes" allows them to swing a bat to hit virtual baseballs. Such games not only entertain but also encourage kids to be active, promoting cardiovascular health and coordination.
One of the standout features of active gaming systems like Nex Playground is their ability to engage families in a shared experience. Unlike traditional video games that often isolate players, these active systems can require participation from all members of the family. Parents can join in on the fun, making it a bonding activity that fosters teamwork and communication. The interactive nature of these games also helps to develop essential motor skills in children, as they learn to navigate their physical space while engaging with the digital world.
Affordability is another significant aspect of the Nex Playground. With an annual subscription of $89, families gain access to an extensive library of games, with new titles added regularly. This model not only provides value but also ensures that families have a continuous stream of fresh content to keep them engaged. The inclusion of beloved intellectual properties (IPs) from companies like Hasbro and NBCUniversal further enhances the appeal, as families can enjoy games featuring characters and themes they already love.
Moreover, the simplicity of the system's interface, which includes a basic remote control for navigation, ensures that users of all ages can easily access and enjoy the games. This accessibility is crucial in making active gaming systems a viable option for families, as it reduces the barriers to entry often associated with more complex gaming platforms.
In conclusion, active gaming systems like the Nex Playground represent a significant advancement in family entertainment, combining the thrill of gaming with the benefits of physical activity. By encouraging movement, fostering family interaction, and providing a diverse range of engaging games, these systems help families create lasting memories while promoting healthier lifestyles. As technology continues to evolve, it is likely that we will see even more innovative solutions that bring families together through active play, proving that gaming can indeed be a pathway to fitness and fun.
You can get yours at Amazon, Walmart, Target, Best Buy, and Sam's Club.
Interview by Don Baine, The Gadget Professor.
Scott Ertz is a seasoned media professional whose dynamic presence spans broadcasting, journalism, and tech storytelling. As Editor-in-Chief of PLUGHITZ Live, he leads a multimedia platform that blends insightful reporting with engaging live coverage of major industry events. He's best known as the host of F5 Live: Refreshing Technology, a long-running show that demystifies emerging tech trends with clarity and charisma, and Piltch Point, where he collaborates with Avram Piltch to spotlight cutting-edge innovations.
Scott's media journey began with a passion for connecting audiences to the pulse of technology. His work has taken him behind the scenes at CES, Collision Conference, and FIRST Robotics events, where he's interviewed industry leaders and captured the cultural impact of tech in real time. His on-camera style is both approachable and informed, making complex topics accessible to viewers across platforms.
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