NeoGeo AES+ faced cancellation before redesign, says Plaion boss

The NeoGeo AES+ console faced near-cancellation due to an AI-driven chip shortage, according to Plaion leadership. The company revealed that supply chain pressures forced a complete redesign of the retro system before it could reach players.

A Plaion representative stated: "We were almost dead," highlighting how severe the manufacturing obstacles became during development. The comment underscores the challenges facing hardware makers when semiconductor availability tightens unexpectedly.

The AES+ is Plaion's updated version of the classic NeoGeo arcade system for home use. The console targets players seeking access to the arcade cabinet's extensive library with modern conveniences. Details about the specific redesign changes remain limited, though the delay reflects broader industry struggles with chip sourcing.

The revelation adds context to why the AES+ launch extended beyond initial timelines. Hardware announcements often face setbacks, but Plaion's direct acknowledgment of near-failure illustrates how dependent modern retro products are on stable component availability.