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| The NeoGeo AES+ and NeoGEO AES+ Anniversary Edition. |
April 18, 2026 – In a move that has retro gaming fans buzzing, Plaion has officially unveiled a modern reincarnation of SNK’s legendary 90s console, the Neo Geo AES. Dubbed the Neo Geo AES+, this new machine keeps the soul of the original alive while adding long-awaited modern conveniences. Best of all, pre-orders are open now ahead of its November 12th, 2026 release.
If you grew up pumping quarters into Metal Slug or dreaming of owning the gold‑cartridge beast that was the AES, this is your second chance. But the Neo Geo AES+ isn’t just a nostalgia play – it’s a carefully engineered piece of hardware that respects the past without cutting corners.
Original Design, Modern Internals
At first glance, the Neo Geo AES+ looks identical to the 1990 original. That’s intentional. Plaion kept the iconic dark grey slab design, the same proportions, and even the reassuring weight. But flip it around, and you’ll see what’s new: an HDMI port for plugging straight into modern 4K TVs, plus legacy AV input ports for CRT purists who still own a Trinitron.
Other modern touches include DIP switches for instant language selection (no more region modding), built‑in display mode options (scanlines, smooth, or crisp pixels), and support for overclocking – a dream for shmup fans who want to reduce slowdown in games like Viewpoint. Permanent high scores can now be saved, too, though you’ll need a memory card (sold separately) to lock in those bragging rights.
Not Emulation, Not FPGA – Real ASIC Magic
Here’s where things get really interesting. Unlike many modern retro consoles that rely on software emulation or FPGA (like the Analogue 3D), the Neo Geo AES+ uses legacy ASIC chips that have been “re‑engineered to modern standards,” according to Plaion. In plain English: these are custom silicon chips designed to replicate the original hardware at a transistor level, but built with current manufacturing processes. The result is zero emulation lag and 100% accuracy with original game cartridges.
For context, the Analogue 3D (the Funtastic Limited Edition) is currently available on Amazon for $499.98 – and it doesn’t come with a controller. The Neo Geo AES+ undercuts that price while including a wired arcade stick. That’s a bold statement.
Cartridge Support: New and Original
One of the biggest fears for any retro re‑release is compatibility. Plaion promises that the Neo Geo AES+ works with both new, re‑issued cartridges and your original Neo Geo AES carts from the 90s. The cartridge slot is the same 15‑pin design, and the console will even read original memory cards.
To sweeten the deal, Plaion is also selling 10 classic game cartridges separately, including fan‑favorites Metal Slug and Big Tournament Golf. A wireless version of the original SNK Neo Geo Gamepad is also in the works for those who prefer a pad over a stick.
What’s in the Box? A Real Arcade Stick
Unlike many modern “collector’s” consoles that ship with a cheap gamepad, the standard Neo Geo AES+ ($249.99) includes a 1:1 replica of the original Arcade Stick – wired, with a 15‑pin connector. That means it’s not only usable on the new console, but also compatible with original Neo Geo AES hardware. Conversely, if you still own an original stick from 1993, you can plug it into the AES+.
The package also includes an HDMI cable and a power brick. No hidden “sold separately” nonsense.
Three Editions: Standard, Anniversary, and Ultimate
Plaion knows that retro fans love options – and limited editions. So they’ve prepared three tiers.
Neo Geo AES+ Standard Edition – $249.99
- Black console
- Wired Arcade Stick (15‑pin)
- HDMI cable + power brick
- Pre‑order now: Plaion official page
Neo Geo AES+ Anniversary Edition – $349.99
- White console (limited color)
- White Metal Slug game cartridge
- White wireless Arcade Stick with matching 15‑pin dongle
- White memory card
- Pre‑order here: Anniversary Edition
Neo Geo AES+ Ultimate Edition – $999.99
This one is for the hardcore collector. Extremely limited quantities.
- Black console
- Wired Arcade Stick + wireless Arcade Stick
- Wireless Gamepad
- Memory card
- 10 Neo Geo game cartridges (including Metal Slug, Big Tournament Golf, and eight more)
- Matching game rack
- Pre‑order while you can: Ultimate Edition
First Look Video
Want to see the AES+ in action? Plaion released an official trailer showing off the HDMI output, DIP switches, and a few rounds of Metal Slug. Watch it here:
Plaion Neo Geo AES+ Official Reveal on YouTube
Final Thoughts – Should You Pre‑order?
At $249.99 with a proper arcade stick included, the Neo Geo AES+ is surprisingly affordable – especially compared to original AES units that regularly sell for $500+ on eBay. The use of re‑engineered ASIC chips instead of emulation means this isn’t just another “retro box.” It’s a faithful recreation that should satisfy both speedrunners and casual fans.
The only real downsides? The memory card for high score saving is extra, and the Ultimate Edition’s $999.99 price tag will make your wallet weep. But for anyone who’s been waiting decades to own a brand‑new Neo Geo that plugs into a modern TV without mods, the AES+ looks like the real deal.
Pre‑orders are live now. Shipping begins November 12, 2026. Given the limited nature of the Anniversary and Ultimate editions, don’t sleep on this one.
Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links to Amazon. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
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| The NeoGeo AES+ Ultimate Edition includes 10 game cartridges. |
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| The NeoGeo AES+ will come with a wired Arcade Stick. |
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| The NeoGeo AES+ Anniversary Edition is white and comes with a wireless Arcade Stick. |