Plaion's upcoming Neo Geo AES+ is starting to sound like more than a simple nostalgia box. FPGA developer Jotego, who has already confirmed that he and Furrtek are involved with the project, has now shared a little more about what the team is trying to preserve.
A Familiar Machine, Rebuilt Inside
Speaking with the Spanish YouTube channel Creativo en Japón, Jotego compared the AES+ with the relationship between the Genesis 1 and Genesis 2. In other words, the basic idea remains the same, but the internal design has been revised, made smaller, and adapted through newer technology.
That comparison is useful for anyone hoping the AES+ keeps the spirit of SNK's original home system. The goal, as described, is not to turn the Neo Geo into something unrecognizable, but to make a modern version whose inner layout is cleaner and more compact.
Picture And Sound Accuracy
Jotego also said he is personally watching over color reproduction on the AES+. His aim is to keep the image as close as possible to original Neo Geo AES hardware. For players using older displays or retro video setups, he also confirmed that the legacy AV port will support RGB.
Audio is getting the same careful treatment. Jotego said the sound should be as close to the original AES as possible. To help with that, he has even removed the interpolator he had introduced for the MiSTer core, choosing accuracy over a convenience that could alter the feel.
Input Lag And Another Hint
For serious Neo Geo players, input lag may be the biggest comfort point. According to Jotego, the AES+ should have virtually none because the controller cable connects directly to the chip. He described this as effectively the same as the original setup, and he was confident players would not notice delay.
Near the end of the interview, Jotego was asked whether any other consoles might receive similar treatment. He said he is not involved with another one, but he does know Plaion has another machine on the way. He would not name it or share details, only suggesting that Plaion may bring fans more joy.