It was hard to believe when reports surfaced of a new US ESRB age rating seemingly hinting at a format called the Neo Geo AES+. However, as we now know, such a thing is indeed real. What was previously reported has proven to be true: the Neo Geo AES+ is making its debut to commemorate the console’s 35th anniversary, with Plaion handling the release. This is arguably one of the most visually appealing retro consoles ever created.
The system closely mirrors the original Neo Geo, but with contemporary connectivity options, including HDMI output. For those who prefer older displays, AV output for CRT monitors is also included. The press release details the new hardware’s capabilities:
“The new hardware features low-latency HDMI output, finally enabling games to be enjoyed in crisp HD, with resolutions up to 1080p. The on-screen BIOS and DIP switches located on the bottom of the console allow for instant region switching and language selection, hardware overclocking, or choosing different display modes. The console now also boasts low power consumption and persistent saving of player high scores for every game.”
The Neo Geo AES+ maintains full backward compatibility with original Neo Geo game cartridges. Furthermore, a collection of ten classic games has been announced, with more releases promised in the future. These will be sold separately with their original-style packaging and manuals, offering an excellent starting point for newcomers to this legendary platform.
Notably, there is no emulation involved. The console is powered by newly designed ASIC chips that are based on the original hardware’s architecture. The initial lineup of games includes:
- Metal Slug
- The King of Fighters 2002
- Garou: Mark of the Wolves
- Big Tournament Golf
- Shock Troopers
- Samurai Shodown V Special
- Pulstar
- Twinkle Star Sprites
- Magician Lord
- Over Top
Ben Jones, Commercial Director at Plaion, expressed his enthusiasm for the new hardware: “The Neo Geo remains unparalleled in the eyes of arcade enthusiasts who have never been inclined to accept anything less than the authentic arcade experience. For 35 years, SNK’s hardware has continued to astound gamers with the system’s library, which includes a host of grand titles that, in some ways, only get better with age and remain timeless classics to this day. We are thrilled to reintroduce this legendary system to modern gamers in a way that refuses to compromise the integrity of the original hardware and the collecting experience, at a price point that all gamers can finally afford. We look forward to unveiling more throughout the year and cannot wait for players to reconnect with the 100Mega Shock only the Neo Geo can deliver.”
In essence, this is a collector’s dream, and it’s hoped that it will inspire Nintendo and Sega to pursue similar initiatives. The console will come with both classic arcade sticks and controllers featuring original designs. A presentation of the Neo Geo AES+ can be found in the video below.
As if that weren’t exciting enough, a white anniversary edition is also being released for true enthusiasts. This special edition includes a white arcade stick and a white copy of Metal Slug, all in a limited edition package that is likely to appreciate significantly in value over time.
The Neo Geo AES+ is slated for release on November 12th, priced at €179.99 / $199.99. An Ultimate Edition will also be available, featuring all the standard items plus additional goodies for €799 / $899. The Ultimate Edition includes:
- Gaming Console (Black)
- Wired Arcade Stick (Black)
- Wireless Arcade Stick (Black)
- Wireless Gamepad (Black)
- Memory Card (Black)
- 10x Game Cartridges
- Exclusive Game Stand
- Wireless Stick Key (Black)
- 15-pin Stick Cable
- USB-C Stick Charging Cable
- Wireless Dongle for Gamepad (Black)
- USB-C Charging Cable for Gamepad
- HDMI Cable
- Power Supply Unit