Good news everyone — a new retro gaming console has been announced for release before the end of 2026.
If your first thought is “another mini emulated console,” that assumption would be understandable — but in this case, it appears to be something different.
According to early details, gameplay on the NEOGEO AES+ is not achieved through emulation. Instead, the system is described as being powered by legacy ASIC chips, re-engineered by modern standards to accurately replicate original hardware behaviour.
Most modern retro consoles today fall into two categories:
- Software emulation systems, such as mini consoles based on classic platforms like the NES, SNES, Sega Mega Drive, Commodore 64, Amiga 1200, and others
- FPGA-based recreations, used in systems like the ModRetro Chromatic, SuperStationᵒⁿᵉ, and Analogue3D from Analogue
A hardware approach described as “legacy ASIC-based” is extremely rare in modern consumer retro systems, which is why the announcement has attracted attention. What this means is that by the end of this year you will effectively be able to purchase a brand new retro console with the conveniences of compatibility with modern TV’s.
Neo Geo AES+ Release Details
Among the NEOGEO AES+’s purported modern quality-of-life improvements are HDMI output, DIP switches, and an overclocking function. The Neo Geo has long been considered “the Rolls-Royce of video game consoles,” a reputation reflected in its build quality, specifications, and original pricing. The modern iteration appears to continue this positioning, with its premium nature reflected in its reported price tag.
The cost is reported to start at $249.99 / £179.99 / €199.99, with a planned release date of 12 November 2026, and pre-orders reportedly already appearing across online retailers. The new console is said to support original Neo Geo AES cartridges as well as new cartridges produced alongside the system, making it one of the more ambitious modern retro hardware releases in recent years.
As mentioned SNK will be producing a range of new old games including: Metal Slug, Big Tournament Golf, Garou: Mark of the Wolves, Magician Lord, Pulstar, Over Top, Samurai V Showdown Special, Twinkle Star Sprites, King of Fighters 2002 and Shock Troppers. Additionally there are producing new peripherals including arcade sticks, gamepads and memory cards.
An Ultimate Edition will include the Neo Geo AES+ that comes with all 10 newly released cartridges, wired and wireless arcade sticks, a gamepad, an exclusive game rack as well as an assortment of USB, HDMI cables and wireless controller dongles. This Neo Geo AES+ Ultimate Edition comprehensive bundle will be sold for approximately $999 /£799 / €899. The bundle represents excellent value for money, which is great for those who can afford it.
Neo Geo AES+ Console Features
- Brand new modern replication of the original Neo Geo AES
- New Legacy ASIC chip-based hardware for highly accurate gameplay without any emulation
- Backwards compatibility with original Neo Geo AES cartridges in addition to new cartridges
- AV output for CRT TV’s and HDMI output for modern TV’s
- DIP Switches can change game options such as language, overclocking and display mode output selection
- High score saving available via memory card peripheral
Relevant Links
- Plaion Replai Neo Geo AES+ Console and Accessories Pre-Order Page [https://plaionreplai.com/pages/neogeo]
- Amazon.co.uk Neo Geo AES+ Console Pre-Order Page [https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0GXBCSGYQ]
