And the game has begun! After four successful seasons, India’s first gaming reality show returns with season 5. Released today, August 1, 2026, streaming on MX Player by Prime Video, the first episode has raised the bar for gaming, entertainment, and chaos.

The fifth season returns with a revamped house as a battleground format and will have 15 contestants and three high-profile mentors: Elvish Yadav (KO Krakens), Tejasswi Prakash (Raging Centaury), and Aarush Bhola (Power Pheonixes).

The first episode began on a high note, introducing the game and three mentors in powerful VFX and gaming style while also welcoming previous winners as gaming coaches. What sets the bar for this season is the perfect mix of mentors. Elvish already enjoys massive fandom, and his chemistry with Tejasswi Prakash we have all seen, which adds more interest, and Aarush Bhola is known for his bond and personality, making it a perfect mix for the game show that will intensify the game with bold stands, strong personalities, and tough decisions.

Season’s first-ever task was won by Aarush Bhola, who spared Tejasswi Prakash as she marks her debut in the gaming zone, while Elvish is already a two-time winner. The first episode witnessed drama, chaos, arguments, selections, and gaming skills, setting the bar high.

With the high engagement and interesting factors brought in the fifth season, the reality show set the bar high. The entire house will function as an interactive game zone. It will run for 6 weeks, where teams will clash against each other from casual to pro gaming.

Mentor Performance

Elvish Yadav: After winning two seasons, Elvish returns with his strategy, experience, and knowledge.

Tejasswi Prakash: The actress marks her debut and is impressing the viewers. Her appearance brings fresh vibes.

Aarush Bhola: His high competitive energy and enthusiasm inject excitement.

Verdict

Produced by Rusk Media, Playground season 5 has set the bar high for entertainment, chaos, and gaming with new contestants and mentors. And if you are a gaming fan, do not miss out.

Our editorial rating: 3 out of 5 stars.