The global K-pop superstars BTS just announced their first official gaming project. The group is teaming up with the Nex Playground console for a new interactive experience set for release in late 2026. This marks the group’s debut in the video game world. The collaboration brings BTS’s music to the rhythm game Starri, giving fans a new way to connect with the group’s songs using their whole body.
This is the first time BTS has officially joined a gaming project. The announcement comes as the group celebrates its 13-year anniversary and continues its record-breaking ARIRANG world tour. The news was shared on June 23, 2026, showing a new step for BTS into interactive entertainment.
What Is the Nex Playground Console?
Nex Playground is a home console built for active play. Unlike traditional gaming systems like PlayStation or Xbox, the Playground uses a built-in camera and motion-tracking technology to follow the player’s movements. It does not require any handheld controllers.
The console looks similar to the popular Nintendo Wii or Xbox Kinect, focusing on getting families and friends to move around the living room. Players jump, dance, and swing their arms to play games directly on screen. Nex is the company behind the device. They aim to create games for all ages, combining technology with physical activity.
The device first launched in the United States in late 2023. It became available in the UK and Europe in June 2026. The company has plans to bring the console to Japan by 2027 and expand to other Asian markets.
How the BTS x Starri Game Experience Works
The BTS collaboration will be added to the music rhythm game called Starri, which is available on the Nex Playground.
Players will use the motion-tracking camera to interact with BTS’s music. The gameplay requires full-body movement. You might need to dance, wave your arms, or step in time with the beat of famous BTS songs.
This collaboration marks the first co-branded edition of Starri for Nex. The experience uses the group’s music and performances to create a family-friendly activity. Nex President Tom Kang explained the goal of the partnership:
“Music has always been one of the most powerful ways to bring people together, and BTS have built a global community through that shared connection. Our partnership with HYBE creates a unique experience that celebrates the energy, creativity, and cultural impact of BTS while bringing all ages together through Starri.”
HYBE, the entertainment company behind BTS, also shared the vision for the project:
“Playground’s active play platform offers global audiences of all ages an innovative way to engage with our artists. We are excited for fans and families to come together through interactive gameplay inspired by the group’s music.”
Gameplay Features and Release Date
The official BTS experience is scheduled for a late 2026 release. The exact day has not been announced yet. However, the collaboration serves as the first dedicated artist experience on the Nex Playground platform.
Key features of the experience include:
- Full-body gameplay that uses the camera to track movements without needing controllers
- Interactive music experience featuring the group’s songs
- Family-friendly play suitable for all ages
- Shared experience designed for parents and kids to enjoy together
Subscription Cost and Game Availability
The BTS x Starri experience is part of the Play Pass, Nex Playground’s content subscription service.
The console costs about $299 in the US and £269 in the UK. The console comes with five free games included in the box. However, players need the Play Pass to access the full library. A 12-month Play Pass subscription costs $89 (or £90). There is also a 3-month option for $49.
The Play Pass gives access to over 60 games currently available on the system, including sports, dance, fitness, and educational titles. The catalog also includes other popular brand collaborations like Hasbro, Sesame Workshop, and Paramount. Additionally, a new game featuring Sonic the Hedgehog was recently announced.
Privacy and Safety Features
Nex emphasizes safety and privacy for its family audience. The console is kidSAFE+ COPPA compliant and a member of the Family Online Safety Institute (FOSI) in the US.
Motion-tracking data stays on the local device. It does not get sent to the cloud. The console also includes a built-in camera cover. This allows users to block the camera when the console is not in use. In Europe, the console holds a PEGI 3 age rating, confirming its suitability for young children.
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Where to Buy Nex Playground
The console is currently available for purchase in the United States and Canada. It can be bought at major retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, Target, Walmart, and Sam’s Club. It is also available for pre-order in the UK and Republic of Ireland.
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