SNK and Plaion Are Bringing Back the NeoGeo AES

SNK and publisher Plaion are bringing back the NeoGeo AES (Advanced Entertainment System) later this year, giving both longtime fans and newer gamers a chance to experience the classic console with some modern upgrades.

The new NeoGeo AES+ will launch on November 12 in two versions: a Standard Edition and a 35th Anniversary Edition, both priced at $249.99 / £179.99 / €199.99. An Ultimate Edition that bundles all launch games and accessories together is already available to order on the Plaion website.

While the new console is designed to stay true to the original, it comes with a handful of practical upgrades. These include low-latency HDMI output, 1080p video output, and on-screen BIOS and DIP Switch controls on the bottom of the unit. These allow players to quickly change language settings, enable overclocking, or switch between display modes without much hassle. The console also has low power consumption and will permanently save high scores for each game played.

One of the bigger selling points is full compatibility with original NeoGeo AES cartridges, meaning players with an existing game library can use them on the new hardware.

Three accessories will also go on sale at launch. The NeoGeo AES+ Arcade Stick is described as a faithful replica of the original controller, now with both wired and wireless support. The NeoGeo AES+ Memory Card is also a replica of the original but no longer requires a cell battery to function. Rounding things out is the NeoGeo AES+ Gamepad, a straightforward replica of the original pad.

The original NeoGeo AES launched in 1990 and built a loyal following thanks to its high-quality arcade ports. At the time, it was one of the only home consoles that could deliver a true arcade experience at home, though that came at a steep cost. The system launched at $649 (equivalent to over $1,200 today), and individual game cartridges cost around $200 each. Those prices kept it out of reach for most people, and the console sold fewer than a million units worldwide.

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