NeoGeo AES+: SNK Announces Retro Console Relaunch Without Emulation

The NeoGeo AES+ is coming back this year. Plaion and SNK announced that instead of software emulation, they will use an ASIC (dedicated integrated circuit) to reproduce the original hardware's behavior as accurately as possible.

The launch version includes the following.

• 10 titles released simultaneously
• Flagship titles: Metal Slug, The King of Fighters 2002, Samurai Showdown V Special
• Cartridges provided with packaging that captures the original atmosphere
• Support for AV output and HDMI (up to 1080p)
• Saveable high scores, a BIOS menu, and additional switches provided

The included components are also clearly defined.

• Wired arcade stick
• Power adapter
• HDMI cable

Optional accessories include a reproduction of the AES gamepad, an improved memory card, and a wireless arcade stick (black/white). In particular, full compatibility with original cartridges is emphasized.

Pricing is set at around 200 euros for the standard edition and around 300 euros for the white commemorative edition, with the commemorative edition including a white Metal Slug cartridge. The expected price per individual game is around 80 euros.

The original NeoGeo AES launched in Japan in 1990 and in the US in 1991, and was known at the time for its high price of around $650 and cartridges priced at $200–300. Worldwide sales were under 1 million units, but thanks to its strong durability and long-running support for new titles, it has now become a rare collector's item.