Volkswagen will offer in-car gaming on select 2027 models, letting passengers play 20 titles, including Pac-Man, Uno, and Tetris, using their smartphones as controllers. The feature, available through a partnership with AirConsole, will launch in the U.S. on vehicles like the ID Buzz, Atlas, Golf GTI, Golf R, and Tiguan, though it requires a subscription to Volkswagen’s $149/year In-Vehicle Premium service.
The games will be accessible only when the car is parked, with setup involving a QR code scan via a smartphone’s camera app. Some titles will include Volkswagen-branded customizations, like Pac-Man pellets shaped as VW logos or “Power Berries” replaced by iconic VW vehicles. A few games will also sync with the car’s ambient lighting for a more immersive experience.
Volkswagen’s move follows a broader trend in the auto industry, where automakers are testing which digital features drivers and passengers will pay for. Tesla has long offered gaming in its vehicles, while other brands have integrated services like ChatGPT (Mercedes-Benz) or HBO (Cadillac). Unlike Tesla’s approach, Volkswagen’s system is designed for shared play, with multiple passengers able to join a single session.
Passengers won’t need to purchase additional hardware, just a smartphone. The feature will be bundled with other premium connectivity options, including navigation, Wi-Fi hotspot access, and voice control. New ID Buzz buyers will receive 12 months of the service included, while other models get 3 months.
Volkswagen has not specified whether the gaming library will expand beyond the initial 20 titles, though the partnership with AirConsole suggests future updates are possible. The subscription model aligns with the company’s push toward recurring revenue streams, similar to its approach with software and over-the-air updates.
The feature’s success will depend on whether drivers and passengers see it as a worthwhile add-on. While gaming in cars isn’t new, Volkswagen’s integration of branded customizations and ambient lighting could make it more appealing than generic entertainment options. However, the $149 annual cost may limit adoption among budget-conscious buyers.
For now, the service remains tied to specific models and requires an active subscription. Volkswagen has not confirmed whether it will extend gaming to other vehicles beyond the 2027 lineup, leaving room for future adjustments based on demand.