Volkswagen becomes the first US volume brand to offer in-car gaming

Volkswagen of America, Inc. is introducing N-Dream’s AirConsole in-car gaming platform on select model year 2027 vehicles. It becomes the first volume automotive brand in the United States to offer this in-vehicle entertainment experience. AirConsole allows vehicle occupants to play multiplayer games directly through the vehicle’s infotainment display . They use their compatible smartphones as game controllers while the vehicle stays parked.

Launching with a catalog of 20 games, AirConsole offers a growing portfolio of multiplayer and casual gaming experiences. Players simply scan a QR code on the screen to connect their compatible smartphones as controllers. They can then begin playing together. The launch portfolio includes globally recognized titles such as PAC-MAN™ Championship Edition, UNO® Car Party!, Tetris®, and more.

“Volkswagen is committed to creating experiences that bring people together and make every interaction with our brand more meaningful,” said Rachael Zaluzec, Chief Marketing Officer, Volkswagen of America. “In-vehicle gaming helps turn everyday moments into shared experiences, giving families and friends a new way to connect, laugh, and spend time together while enjoying their Volkswagen.”

“North America is the world’s largest gaming market. Launching AirConsole with Volkswagen in this region will not only entertain millions of people, but also make the in-vehicle experience richer,” said Anthony Cliquot, CEO of N-Dream, the company behind AirConsole. “At N-Dream, our vision is to turn in-between time while on the go into memorable moments and experiences.”

AirConsole will be available on 2027 Atlas, Atlas Cross Sport, Tiguan, Golf GTI, Golf R, and ID. Buzz models enrolled in In-Vehicle Premium through the myVW app. By using compatible smartphones and smart devices as controllers, AirConsole makes it easy for passengers to jump into multiplayer games without the need for additional hardware.

Select games will also support ambient lighting integration in compatible vehicle models and trims. Interior lighting responds to gameplay for a more immersive in-car experience. Volkswagen-exclusive content will also be available through the platform.

A custom version of PAC-MAN reimagines the classic experience with Volkswagen branding. Power pellets become Volkswagen logos, and bonus fruits become iconic Volkswagen vehicles. Additional titles including Golazo! and Memory Match feature exclusive Volkswagen-branded content.

Volkswagen includes AirConsole in its In-Vehicle Premium connected services offering, enabled by myVW+. That tier includes features such as Wi-Fi hotspot capability, Premium Navigation, Premium Speech, and additional connected experiences depending on vehicle model.

MY27 Atlas, Atlas Cross Sport, Tiguan, and Golf models include three months of In-Vehicle Premium at no additional cost from the date of vehicle purchase, while ID. Buzz includes one year. To access AirConsole, customers must enroll an eligible vehicle in the myVW app and accept applicable terms and conditions.

AirConsole Games requires a compatible infotainment system , vehicle connectivity, acceptance of applicable terms and conditions, and a compatible smartphone. AirConsole developer N-Dream AG manages game availability, content, compatibility, and features, and all of them are subject to change.

Drive together, play together. N-Dream is the in-car experience company behind AirConsole, the world’s first gaming platform specifically designed for cars. AirConsole’s immersive features transform your car into a fully featured gaming station, integrating the infotainment, sound, and light systems into a single entertainment experience.

AirConsole tailors its rich portfolio of games to casual players of any age. By allowing any passenger to join using their phone as a controller, it is a true social experience. N-Dream is available across premium OEM partners including BMW, Volkswagen, Audi, Porsche, Škoda, and Tata. N-Dream works from Zurich, Switzerland, as a subsidiary of KPIT Technologies.

Contributed article. Not produced by the TNW newsroom and does not reflect the editorial stance of TNW.