Nex Playground: A Clever Move in the Gaming Industry's Blind Spot

The gaming industry is currently facing an affordability crisis, with high hardware prices limiting audience growth and low software prices making it difficult for games to turn a profit. However, this crisis also presents opportunities for companies that can adapt and innovate. The recent data showing the Nex Playground outselling the PlayStation 5 in the US market is a prime example of this. The Nex Playground, a gesture-controlled console with a camera, has found success by targeting the family market with a low-cost device and a monthly subscription plan. Its success can be attributed to its focus on a market segment that major platform holders have abandoned. By leveraging low-end hardware and investing in good development teams, companies like Nex Playground can create high-quality, affordable gaming experiences that meet the needs of underserved audiences. The industry's shift away from budget-friendly options has led to the decline of genres like dancing games and mini-game collections, but Nex Playground's approach shows that there is still a demand for these types of experiences. With the right mindset, the affordability crisis can be seen as an opportunity for innovation and growth, rather than a threat to the industry's stability.