I suspect the sticks feeling better is a mix of a redesign and actually being new. This is a good sign.

As for the system, I think Plaion managed to thread the needle in terms of being a match along with having QOL upgrades.

Never owned or even seen an AES in the real world, so the chance to own something that is so very close to it and with improvements I'm a happy camper.

An officially licenced AES in 2027, with modern QoL improvements for £180 is fantastic. So I'm a happy camper.

From what I can tell, Plaion are making the right choices; 1 to 1 regarding the experience, compatibility, look and feel with discrete, optional quality of life improvements. They've made some great design choices imo. Improve the arcade stick, add stereo sound, video out options for CRT and modern displays with HDMI, improve the plastics (i.e. to stop the yellowing with age), overclock CPU options. There's no need to doggedly replicate any of the old shortcomings. I see that as pointless.

I welcome the quality of life improvements.  I think Plaion has found a pretty good balance.  If you can make little changes while maintaining 100% backwards compatibility for original NeoGeo AES owners, I say why not?  That way new customers get the premium experience they imagined, and the existing NeoGeo customers get a chance to buy new genuine licensed accessories that are better than the original hardware. Win Win.

I think the nostalgia and finally owning something you always wanted but was once out of reach is incredibly powerful. For that reason, I believe it should look like the original. However, if they can make worthwhile improvements within the budget they’ve set, why not?

My take on the 1:1 is that the three main things we want are design (aesthetics), weight, and feel.  Otherwise, we have to be realistic that this is not (and will never be) 100% to the original.  I like how you mentioned the matte black finish as well as improved tactile feel of the controllers.  Who wouldn’t want that?  Also, I like how you have hidden compartments for controller accessories (for cable and plugs).  That’s smart and resourceful.  The system itself has hidden switches underneath which are functional, but do not interfere with the original design language.

I think most games will appreciate the incremental, but necessary improvements without having to compromise the experience they are looking for.

How close To The Original AES Do You Want the NeoGeo AES+?




YES

1+ to 1
Is what Plaion should call the improvement

I'm all for the improvements.  The Sega Model 2 A/V port was a fantastic surprise since I have both excellent cords for my CRT and to upscale with my HDTV.  I doubt anyone really wants to take apart a brand new console to install a unibios.  The new button layout is definitely better.  I want a quality arcade stick that will last.  I also want the new products to be distinguishable from the old as well for the sake of the people that have invested in collecting for the Neo Geo.  Those will be the same people buying the AES+ and I'm sure they will appreciate "better".  It's not like I bought my Analogue 3D because I needed another N64, I wanted something better that would last longer.

I also like the QoL improvements of what’s being done so far. I wouldn’t mind if there was a boost processor mode to help against game slowdowns. I know that would totally change the gameplay of some games. But it would be nice if you could turn it on and off.

One tiny detail they left out in regards to the printing is the omission of: 330 MEGA Pro Gear Spec ( Why didn't they print this ) I know its not a big deal. But it would have been nice.

I am totally okay with QoL improvements. When I got to go hands on at TGS, I was impressed how nice it felt compared to the OG.

I don't expect every ridge and curve to be 1:1 and all the components will be lighter weight and current gen.  It'll be like upgrading to a proper 2010 Gen2 AES fixing all the old revision problems.  I want as many improvements to the hardware as possible, even to the point that the delay would possibly add some possible previously unforeseen futureproofing.

The closer, the better I must say Jarrod. After a while, these replica units that we received in the past have been just okay at this point. .

Anthony..

It needs to have HDMI, because many modern TV's don't have a scart socket.

If Plaion tried to make it 1:1 the only two outcomes are: it’s as “flawed” as the original, or it’s “worse”…

And I think there’s a lot of people invested in being able to say:

“They don’t  make ‘em like they used to <pats original AES>”

Being 100% compatible (with the exception of old bootleg kit with bad power management that may harm the unit). But with the quality improvements that come with passing decades.

I’m the sure the visual and sound should be better then the original

You want it to be better surely, the same but better lol features that will make it last the test of time as a new console. If it’s not better than a console made 30 odd years ago then there is something wrong lol

Dude, I'll make a video about it, sooner or later, on my main channel, but that Hori stick is better than perfect: it's identical to the Hori Neo Geo 1 (not 2) but color coded for the Super Famicom...

...it's a perfect ten.

Unfortunately, this would add significantly to the cost of buying an AES+ ...and it would add to the amount of space taken up by the system, too.