Volkswagen Of America Offers In-vehicle Gaming For 2027 Models

While parked at a 150-kW rapid charger, a late-model Volkswagen ID.5 requires about 30 minutes to charge from empty to full. That’s plenty of time to use the bathroom, get snacks, sneak in a 15-minute catnap, or school your passengers in a hotly contested game of Tetris. Indeed, Volkswagen of America has announced that select 2027 models will offer the option to integrate an N-Dream AirConsole video game system into the infotainment display.

“Volkswagen is committed to creating experiences that bring people together and make every interaction with our brand more meaningful,” says Rachael Zaluzec, chief marketing officer at 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.”

The N-Dream AirConsole will be made 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. The app operates by transforming compatible smartphones and smart devices into usable controllers without using any additional hardware.

“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,” says Anthony Cliquot, CEO of N-Dream. “At N-Dream, our vision is to turn in-between time while on the go into memorable moments and experiences.”

Twenty games available on the AirConsole offer multiplayer, casual gaming experiences and a heavy dose of nostalgia. Among the offerings will be Pac-Man Championship Edition, Uno Car Party!, and Tetris. There also will be Volkswagen-exclusive content including a custom version of Pac-Man where power pellets are VW logos and bonus fruits become “iconic Volkswagen vehicles.”

Interestingly, certain trim levels will be able to give an immersive experience with interior lighting responding to gameplay.

There will be an unspecified complimentary period for an active In-Vehicle Premium subscription; at its conclusion, the service will be available for $149 per year.  

Fortunately for other drivers on the road, the AirConsole can only be accessed while the vehicle is in park. In other words, if anyone on a road trip wants a rematch, he or she will have to marinate in defeat until the next stop.