Volkswagen is launching the AirConsole gaming platform in the US for six 2027 model year models: Atlas, Atlas Cross Sport, Tiguan, Golf GTI, Golf R, and ID. Buzz. At launch, 20 games will be available, including Tetris, UNO Car Party!, and PAC-MAN Championship Edition.
The system works without a separate game console. Passengers scan a QR code on the car screen with their smartphone, after which the phone turns into a controller. You can only play while parked — this is a fundamental safety restriction.
In some trim levels, the gaming system will be able to interact with the interior lighting. Volkswagen has also prepared its own versions of games with elements of corporate design.
The main feature is the payment model. AirConsole is included in the In-Vehicle Premium package. For Atlas, Atlas Cross Sport, Tiguan, and Golf, three free months are provided, while ID. Buzz owners get a year. After that, the subscription costs $149 (about 13,000 rubles) per year and includes not only games but also other connected features, including a Wi-Fi hotspot, Premium Navigation, and Premium Speech.
This results in an unusual transformation of automotive multimedia: the screen, which usually handles navigation and car settings, becomes a gaming platform. The practical scenario is obvious — waiting in a parking lot or at a charging station turns into an opportunity to play together with passengers.