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To set up a Nex Playground, connect the cube to your television with the included HDMI cable, power it from a wall outlet with the included Nex USB-C cable, select the matching HDMI input, and follow the on-screen account prompts. Keep Wi-Fi connected while the five Starter Pack games install; Nex says that download can take up to an hour. You can skip Play Pass during setup and play downloaded games offline later.
The first session has three separate jobs: establish the picture and power connections, finish the account and software setup, and create a safe area for camera-based motion play. Completing them in that order makes it easier to tell whether a problem is caused by the TV connection, an unfinished download or the room layout.
What to have ready before you begin
Gather everything before connecting the cube so setup does not stop halfway through:
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- Included HDMI cable
- Included Nex USB-C power cable and power adapter
- Included remote and its batteries
- A television with an available HDMI port
- Your Wi-Fi network name and password
- An email address for the Nex account
- A smartphone or laptop for the Nex account web portal
The included HDMI cable, power cable and remote are intended for the initial setup. Do not substitute a generic USB-C power supply: Nex specifically instructs owners to use the original Nex Playground power cable.
#1 Best Overall
- 5 GAMES INCLUDED. UNLOCK MORE WITH PLAY PASS. Playground comes with Fruit Ninja, Starri, Whac-a-Mole, Go Keeper, and Party Fowl. A separate purchase of a 3-Month ($49) or 12-Month Play Pass ($89) is required to access the full catalog of games and get new games each month, including Barbie, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, How to Train Your Dragon, Peppa Pig, Care Bears, Elmo, Miraculous Ladybug, Gabby's Dollhouse, Kung Fu Panda and more.
- GET MOVING WITH ACTIVE FAMILY FUN. Nex Playground is a new kind of video game console that gets your family moving. It easily connects to your TV, transforming your living room into an active play space. Within minutes, your family will be playing Fruit Ninja, Whac-a-Mole and more. Using a built-in camera to track motion and natural body movements, anyone in the family can jump right in.
- JUST USE YOUR BODY TO PLAY. Play naturally just by moving your body. Playground uses the magic of AI to follow your movements using the built-in wide-angle camera. No controllers or clunky trackers! Up to 4 players can play at the same time, so everyone can get moving together.
- GAMES YOU'LL LOVE MOVING TO. Playground is packed with interactive motion games, turning your living room into an arcade, theme park, gym, and more. There is something for everyone. It is perfect for indoor family game night, after school activities, or a playdate with friends.
- EASY SET UP. Playground connects to your TV or projector with a simple HDMI connection and gets everyone in on the fun. It's small and sits elegantly on any console or mantle, and can easily fit in a backpack for playdates and more. From ages 5 and up—Playground is the life of every party.
It is also helpful to clear the intended play area before turning the system on. The cube’s camera needs a forward-facing view of the player, and moving furniture after setup can change the tracking angle. If the television is mounted above a fireplace, on a console or on a deep cabinet, plan where the cube will sit before you connect the cables.
Connect the Playground to your television
1. Plug in HDMI
- Find the HDMI port on the back of the Playground cube.
- Connect one end of the included HDMI cable to the cube.
- Connect the other end to an open HDMI port on the television, such as HDMI 1 or HDMI 2.
- Push both plugs firmly into place. A loose connector can leave the television on the wrong input or produce a blank screen.
HDMI is the only physical video path in the normal setup. The cable carries the Playground picture and sound to the TV; it does not provide the cube’s operating power. If the TV has several HDMI sockets, note the exact label you used so you can select it in the next step.
2. Select that exact input
Use the television remote’s Source, Input or similar button and select the HDMI number used in the previous step. If the cable is in HDMI 2, the television must display HDMI 2; selecting HDMI 1 will not show the Playground.
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Do not rely on the TV’s automatic input switching. Some sets remain on the last-used source even when a new device is powered on. If the screen says No Signal, check the port label on the back of the television and select that same label from the source list.
3. Connect wall power
- Connect the included USB-C power cable to the Playground.
- Plug the power adapter directly into a wall outlet.
Nex recommends avoiding extension cords and power strips for the Playground. The physical television connection is HDMI, but the cube also requires this separate wall-power connection. A power strip may appear convenient beside a TV console, but Nex’s stated setup guidance is a direct wall connection with the supplied adapter.
4. Prepare the remote
Insert the included remote’s batteries with the positive side facing down. Keep the remote nearby while completing the on-screen prompts. If the remote does not respond, remove and reinstall the batteries in the same orientation before assuming the console or television is at fault.
Complete first-time software setup
Follow the on-screen prompts
After the television displays the Playground interface, continue through the prompts. You will use the email address and account web portal prepared earlier. Follow each screen in order rather than disconnecting the cube while setup is running.
The web portal step is why a phone or laptop is useful even though the game picture appears on the TV. Keep that second device available until the account screens are complete, and enter the Wi-Fi network name and password carefully. A failed Wi-Fi entry can delay downloads even when the HDMI connection is working normally.
Skip Play Pass if you are not ready to buy it
Play Pass is optional during account creation. You can skip the purchase step or leave the activation-code field unused and finish basic setup. Additional Play Pass games can be activated later; declining it does not prevent the initial setup or the Starter Pack installation.
This separates the console’s first-time setup from an optional game subscription. You do not need to buy Play Pass simply to test the device, install the five Starter Pack games or reach the main interface. If you do enter an activation code, keep Wi-Fi connected because those additional titles also need to download before they are ready.
Turn on TV Game Mode
If your television provides a Game Mode setting, enable it for the HDMI input used by the Playground. Nex recommends Game Mode for this device. TV manufacturers use different menu names and locations, so the exact path depends on the television model.
Rank #2
- Transform your living room into an active play space with built-in camera and AI motion tracking that lets up to 4 players use natural body movements - no controllers needed.
- Includes 5 free games (Fruit Ninja, Starri, Whac-a-Mole, Go Keeper, and Party Fowl) with access to 30+ more games through Play Pass subscription.
- Play with beloved characters including Barbie, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Peppa Pig, Elmo, Miraculous Ladybug, Gabby's Dollhouse, and Kung Fu Panda.
- Easy setup with simple HDMI connection to your TV or projector, compact design fits on any console or mantle, and portable enough for playdates.
- Get new content and seasonal updates every month, offering year-round entertainment across various genres from dance to fitness to sports.
Game Mode is a television setting, not a Playground setting. If the TV stores picture settings separately for each HDMI input, make sure you enable it on the input where the cube is connected rather than on a different source.
Wait for the Starter Pack games to install
Leave the Playground connected to Wi-Fi after the first prompts finish. The five Starter Pack games download automatically. Nex says the installation can take up to one hour, depending on internet speed. Games included through an activated Play Pass may also take up to an hour to download.
The one-hour estimate is not a fixed countdown. Slower internet service can extend the wait, and activating more games creates more download work. Keep the TV and Playground powered while the process runs instead of repeatedly restarting the system because a tile has not appeared immediately.
Open the game library and wait until the tiles no longer display Pending or Installing. Starting a tile while it still shows one of those labels can interrupt the normal installation flow. Keep the cube powered and connected during this stage.
Once all games have finished installing, Nex’s first-time setup guidance suggests rebooting by disconnecting and reconnecting the USB-C power cable. This gives the completed installation a clean start before your first play session. Perform that restart only after the tiles have finished installing, not while a download is still in progress.
Position the cube for reliable motion tracking
Choose a clear, forward-facing location
Place the Playground centered in front of or below the television. Move it close to the front edge of the surface so the camera can see as much of the player’s body as possible. Avoid placing it far back on a deep cabinet where the surface or television stand could block the camera’s view.
Nex recommends positioning the device between 15 and 60 inches above the floor. The cube should face the play area rather than being turned sideways. Centering it with the TV is a practical way to keep the on-screen action aligned with the player’s position, while the front-edge placement gives the camera a less obstructed view.
If the TV sits on a narrow stand, verify that the cube is stable and cannot be knocked forward during play. Do not trade camera visibility for an unstable perch; use a nearby surface that keeps the device within the recommended height range and points it straight toward the players.
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Nex recommends that players stand roughly 3 feet 4 inches to 13 feet from the device. The practical distance varies with player height and available lighting, so use the camera view and the game’s guidance to find a position in which the player’s body remains visible.
The closest and farthest figures are a useful planning range, not a requirement to stand at one exact mark. A child and an adult may need different positions, and a dim room can make a farther position less reliable. If tracking is inconsistent, first move the player into the recommended range and improve the camera’s clear view before changing other settings.
Reserve the minimum play area
Plan for about 6 feet by 6 feet of clear floor space. Remove furniture, toys, bags and other objects that could restrict movement or cause someone to trip. The stated area is a manufacturer recommendation for motion play, not a guarantee that every room or game will feel identical.
Rank #3
- COMPLETE BUNDLE INCLUDES: Nex Playground Active Play System (with 5 starter games), Official Travel Case for protection and portability, and 12-Month Play Pass that unlocks 30+ games featuring beloved characters like Barbie, TMNT, Peppa Pig, and more
- TRANSFORM YOUR LIVING ROOM INTO AN ACTIVE PLAY SPACE: Simply connect to your TV via HDMI and start playing immediately - no controllers needed! Built-in camera tracks natural body movements for up to 4 players, perfect for family game nights, playdates, and parties
- YEAR-ROUND ENTERTAINMENT WITH NEW CONTENT MONTHLY: Play Pass provides unlimited access to a growing catalog of motion games across various genres - from dance to fitness to sports. Enjoy new games, seasonal themes, and updates throughout the year without any ads or in-app purchases
- TAKE THE FUN ANYWHERE: Lightweight, durable travel case features soft lining, foam frame, and secure straps to protect your console while on-the-go. Compact design fits easily in a backpack, making it perfect for family gatherings, vacations, or playdates
- SAFE AND FAMILY-FRIENDLY: All content is kidSAFE+ COPPA certified with no mature content, ads, or in-app purchases. Motion tracking data is never stored in the cloud, ensuring a secure experience that's appropriate for all ages (5+)
Measure the open area from the cube toward the players, then check the sides as well. A room can meet the front-to-back distance while still being too narrow for comfortable movement. Keep pets, loose cables and low tables out of the active area, and ask players to remain aware of the TV stand and other hard edges.
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Check room conditions
Nex lists an operating range of 0 to 45°C (32 to 113°F). Keep the cube in a normally ventilated indoor location within that range, away from conditions that could make it hotter or colder than the specified operating limits.
That temperature range applies to the device’s operating conditions, not to a recommendation to place it beside a heater or in direct heat. A stable indoor location with room around the cube is the sensible choice, especially during a long download or an active session.
Understand what requires Wi-Fi and what works offline
The Playground uses HDMI to send its picture to the television and the included power supply to operate. Wi-Fi is required for system updates and for downloading new games. After a game has finished downloading, Nex says it can be played offline.
That means a temporary internet outage should not prevent access to games already installed, but it can prevent a first-time download, an update or installation of a newly activated Play Pass title. Complete the downloads before moving the cube to a location without Wi-Fi.
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Offline play does not remove the need for wall power or an HDMI connection. The TV still needs to be on the correct input, and the cube still needs the included power arrangement even when no internet connection is available.
Use the included remote or a compatible TV remote
Start with the included remote
The supplied remote is the dependable starting option because it is part of the Playground package. Install its batteries as directed and use it to navigate the setup prompts and game tiles.
Try HDMI-CEC when your television supports it
Some televisions support HDMI-CEC, a feature that can allow the TV remote to control the Playground after CEC is enabled in the television settings. Manufacturers use different names and menu locations for CEC, and availability is model-dependent. Enable it on the television, then test navigation with the TV remote.
CEC is optional convenience control, not a replacement requirement for the included remote. If enabling it changes how other HDMI devices behave, turn it back off and continue with the Playground remote. The exact menu name and behavior depend on the TV model.
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Nex documents connection steps for some third-party universal remotes, but compatibility is not universal. A remote that controls the television may not control the Playground unless its model and setup are supported. Keep the included remote available if the alternate remote cannot navigate the interface.
Fix a blank or black television screen
A blank screen is most often worth checking at the input, port, cable and power connections before assuming the cube has failed. Work through the following sequence in order, changing one connection at a time so you know which step resolves the problem.
Rank #4
- Transform your living room into an active play space with built-in camera and AI technology that tracks natural body movements, allowing up to 4 players to play simultaneously without controllers.
- Includes 5 free games (Fruit Ninja, Starri, Whac-a-Mole, Go Keeper, and Party Fowl) with access to 30+ additional games through Play Pass subscription.
- Play with beloved characters including Barbie, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Peppa Pig, Elmo, Miraculous Ladybug, Gabby's Dollhouse, and Kung Fu Panda.
- Easy setup with simple HDMI connection to TV or projector, compact design fits on any console or mantle, and portable enough for playdates.
- Experience various game genres from dance to fitness to sports, with new content added monthly for year-round family entertainment.
1. Confirm the selected HDMI input
Look at the back of the television and identify the port containing the Playground cable. Use the TV remote to select that same HDMI number. For example, a cable in HDMI 1 requires the television’s HDMI 1 source.
2. Move the cable to another TV port
Disconnect the HDMI cable from its current television port and try a different HDMI port. Select the new port with the TV remote after moving the cable. This distinguishes a port problem from a problem with the cube or cable.
3. Temporarily remove other HDMI devices
Disconnect other devices from the television for the test, particularly streaming devices or receivers. Nex notes that other connected equipment can sometimes interfere with the HDMI connection. Reconnect those devices after the Playground picture appears.
4. Test another HDMI cable
If another known-good HDMI cable is available, use it to test the Playground. Nex says a good-quality HDMI 2.1 cable from a third-party retailer can replace the included HDMI cable when necessary. Nex does not sell an official replacement HDMI cable.
Use this as a video-cable test only. Do not use a third-party USB-C cable as a substitute for the power lead; HDMI replacement guidance does not apply to power.
5. Run the television’s HDMI diagnostic when available
On Samsung televisions, Nex identifies this path: Settings → Support → Device Care → Self Diagnosis → HDMI Troubleshooting. Run the check and inspect the HDMI ports in sequence. Other television brands use different diagnostic menus.
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- Disconnect the Playground’s power from the cube and from the wall outlet.
- Wait at least 10 seconds.
- Reconnect the power adapter directly to the wall outlet and reconnect the USB-C cable to the cube.
- Return the television to the correct HDMI input.
Nex’s first-time setup guidance also suggests disconnecting and reconnecting the USB-C power cable after all games finish installing as a reboot. Use the longer, 10-second disconnection sequence when diagnosing a blank screen.
If the screen remains blank after trying the input, port, cable and power checks, use Nex support for the next troubleshooting step rather than substituting an unsupported power supply.
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HDMI cable replacement
For a missing or failed HDMI lead, Nex says a good-quality HDMI 2.1 cable is acceptable. Connect it exactly as you would the included cable, then select the corresponding input on the TV. The HDMI cable carries the picture; it does not power the Playground.
The included HDMI lead is the intended first choice, so replacement is relevant only when it is missing or faulty. Nex does not sell an official HDMI cable, making a good-quality HDMI 2.1 cable from a third-party retailer the manufacturer’s stated alternative.
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Power cable replacement
Use the original Nex Playground power cable. Nex warns against third-party or unsupported power cables. If the original cable is lost or damaged, contact Nex customer support for a replacement; availability is fee-based, and support provides current pricing and ordering details.
Best Value
- PERFECT FIT: The Official Nex Playground Game System Travel Case ensures a compact fit for your gaming console and accessories, and protects device during travel or on-the-go adventures. CASE ONLY! (Device and accessories are not included)
- SECURE, DURABLE, AND LIGHTWEIGHT: The Nex game storage carry case features a lightweight construction with super-soft lining and a sturdy foam frame, plus straps to keep accessories snug while on the go.
- EASY TO CARRY: This handy video game organizer with comfortable handle, is lightweight & compact. The small hard case can fit into a backpack. Convenient, durable protective case to take anywhere for a party, travel, home use or outdoor activities.
- BRING THE FUN EVERYWHERE: The good times don't have to stay at home. Pack up the joy for family get-togethers or friend-fueled play dates and take the laughter and smiles whenever you go.
- A STYLISH GIFT: Our hard shell carrying case is an awesome birthday or holiday gift. Crafted with precision and care, ensuring it meets the standards of durability, functionality and style for a Nex Playground game system.
There is no generic low-cost power-supply shortcut supported by these instructions. Because the power cable and adapter are responsible for operating the cube, wait for Nex’s replacement guidance instead of matching a connector by appearance alone.
A first-session checklist
- HDMI cable is connected to the cube and to the television.
- Television is set to the HDMI number used by the cube.
- Original Nex USB-C power cable is connected to a wall outlet.
- Remote batteries are installed with the positive side facing down.
- Wi-Fi name and password are available.
- Email address and smartphone or laptop are ready for account setup.
- Play Pass is either activated with its code or skipped.
- TV Game Mode is enabled when available.
- All five Starter Pack tiles have finished installing and no longer show Pending or Installing.
- Cube is centered, 15–60 inches high, and near the surface edge.
- Players have roughly 3 feet 4 inches to 13 feet of distance and about 6 by 6 feet of clear room.
- Room temperature is within 0–45°C (32–113°F).
What to expect after setup
The normal supported arrangement is simple: HDMI carries the image to the TV, wall power runs the cube, and Wi-Fi handles updates and downloads. Once the games have downloaded, you can play those installed titles without an active internet connection. If you later add games or receive an update, reconnect the Playground to Wi-Fi and allow the installation to finish before launching the new tile.
If you move the Playground to another television, repeat the HDMI-input check and verify that the new room still provides the recommended height, distance and clear floor area. Moving it can also change lighting and the camera’s view, so recalibrate the player’s position by standing within the 3-foot-4-inch to 13-foot range and keeping the body unobstructed.
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How do I connect my Nex Playground to my TV?
Connect the included HDMI cable from the cube to an open HDMI port, select that same HDMI number on the TV, then connect the included USB-C power cable and adapter directly to a wall outlet. HDMI carries the picture; wall power runs the Playground.
Which HDMI input should I use?
Any available HDMI port can work. The important step is selecting the exact matching source on the TV. A cable in HDMI 2 requires the television to display HDMI 2.
Do I need Play Pass to finish setup?
No. Play Pass purchase or activation can be skipped during account creation. The five Starter Pack games install separately over Wi-Fi.
How long do the first games take to download?
Nex says the five Starter Pack games can take up to one hour, depending on internet speed. Play Pass titles may also take up to an hour. Wait until tiles no longer say Pending or Installing.
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Wi-Fi is required for system updates and new game downloads. Games that have already finished downloading can be played offline, but the cube still needs wall power and an HDMI connection to the TV.
How far should players stand from the cube?
Nex recommends roughly 3 feet 4 inches to 13 feet from the device, with about 6 feet by 6 feet of clear play space. Height and lighting can affect the best position.
Why is my Nex Playground screen blank?
Select the matching HDMI input, try another TV HDMI port, temporarily disconnect other HDMI devices, test a known-good HDMI cable and run the TV’s HDMI diagnostic if available. Then disconnect Playground power from the cube and wall for at least 10 seconds and reconnect it directly to the wall.
Can I use another USB-C power cable?
Nex warns against third-party or unsupported power cables and instructs owners to use the original Nex Playground power cable. Contact Nex support for a fee-based replacement if the original is lost or damaged.
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1Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems2Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches3Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsCan my TV remote control the Playground?
Some TVs may control it through HDMI-CEC after CEC is enabled, and Nex documents support for some universal remotes. Compatibility varies, so keep the included remote available.
The Bottom Line
Use the included HDMI cable for video, the original Nex power cable directly in a wall outlet, and the matching HDMI input on the TV. Finish account setup, keep Wi-Fi connected until all five Starter Pack games are installed, then place the cube 15–60 inches high with about 6 by 6 feet of clear space and players roughly 3 feet 4 inches to 13 feet away. If the TV is blank, troubleshoot the input, port, other HDMI devices, cable and power in that order before contacting Nex.
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