Volkswagen of America has introduced AirConsole, an in-vehicle gaming platform, on selected 2027 model-year vehicles, allowing occupants to play multiplayer games through the vehicle’s infotainment system while parked.

The move makes Volkswagen the first volume automotive brand in the United States to offer AirConsole, developed by N-Dream, as an integrated in-car gaming experience.

The platform will launch with a catalogue of 20 games, including titles such as PAC-MAN Championship Edition, UNO Car Party! and Tetris. The selection is expected to expand with additional multiplayer and casual gaming titles.

To use the system, occupants scan a QR code displayed on the vehicle’s infotainment screen and connect compatible smartphones, which serve as game controllers. The setup eliminates the need for dedicated gaming hardware.

Chief Marketing Officer, Volkswagen of America, Rachael Zaluzec, said the technology was designed to create shared experiences for families and friends while the vehicle is stationary.

“Volkswagen is committed to creating experiences that bring people together and make every interaction with our brand more meaningful,” she said.

CEO of N-Dream, Anthony Cliquot, said the launch would expand AirConsole’s presence in North America, which he described as the world’s largest gaming market.

AirConsole will be available on the 2027 Atlas, Atlas Cross Sport, Tiguan, Golf GTI, Golf R and ID. Buzz models enrolled in Volkswagen’s In-Vehicle Premium service through the myVW app.

On selected vehicle models and trims, compatible games will also interact with the vehicle’s ambient

lighting, enabling the interior lights to respond to gameplay.
Volkswagen is also introducing brand-specific content on the platform. A customised version of PAC-MAN, for instance, replaces the game’s power pellets with Volkswagen logos and its bonus fruits with Volkswagen vehicles.

Other games, including Golazo! and Memory Match, will also feature Volkswagen-branded content.

AirConsole forms part of Volkswagen’s In-Vehicle Premium connected-services package, which is enabled through myVW+ and includes features such as Wi-Fi hotspot capability, Premium Navigation and Premium Speech, depending on the vehicle.

Owners of 2027 Atlas, Atlas Cross Sport, Tiguan and Golf models will receive three months of In-Vehicle Premium at no additional cost from the date of purchase, while ID. Buzz customers will receive one year.

After the complimentary period, continued access to AirConsole and other eligible connected services will require an active In-Vehicle Premium subscription, priced at $149 annually for 2027 model-year vehicles.