NEO GEO X - New SNK Games Console

[Otaking]

mmm... not sure whether to pre-order the X GOLD Limited Edition US Version or wait for the official UK release..

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0093G9VOI/ref=s9_simh_co_p63_d0_i1?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=left-1&pf_rd_r=19CP8MCJ36E5JXVF28RK&pf_rd_t=3201&pf_rd_p=1280661682&pf_rd_i=typ01

http://neogeox.com

http://uk.gamespot.com/video/taking-the-neo-geo-x-for-a-test-drive-6398551

[TheClash603]

There is already a big thread talking about this thing, so we should probably merge.

I just wanted to say thank you though for the Gamespot video link though.  It confirmed the original aspect ratio is in tact and answered some other questions regarding the controller build (apparently the same as the original) and how the system docks (was shocked the whole thing opens up).

My girlfriend asked me what I wanted to Christmas, and that video solidified the answer.

[Otaking]

There is already a big thread talking about this thing, so we should probably merge.

yeh sure I guessed the new console had probably been mentioned somewhere here before, I started the new thread more leaning towards the question on whether to pre-order the US version.

I just wanted to say thank you though for the Gamespot video link though.  It confirmed the original aspect ratio is in tact and answered some other questions regarding the controller build (apparently the same as the original) and how the system docks (was shocked the whole thing opens up).

Great  

[ParanoiaDragon]

Yeah, I budged & ordered one.  I do wish the system went in the cartridge slot, that would've been sweet.

[roflmao]

I wish the base was an adapter and you could plug real cartridges into the slot.  That would be way too cool.

[Mishran]

The more I see it, the more I want it.

Not a fan of the clamshell style of the station, but I can learn to live with it. Like alot of people, I thought the system would have docked in the cartridge slot. If pictures and videos are any indication, looks like they went the AES route. Was so hoping for unlimited credits.

If SNK is backing this up and allowing their name and the NG brand to be plastered all over this, I can't see some thrown together, craptacular emulator in the handheld. It appears to be built and designed quite well.

Came close to pressing that pre-order button on amazon.com a number of times already since it was made available there. I'll likely end of biting sooner than later.

They don't charge until the system ships I assume? Free shipping is also a cool bonus.

Gamestop can suck it.

[Deletion]

Came close to pressing that pre-order button on amazon.com a number of times already since it was made available there. I'll likely end of biting sooner than later.

They don't charge until the system ships I assume? Free shipping is also a cool bonus.

Gamestop can suck it.

I also waited until Amazon offered the system for pre-order because I didn't want to do business with GameStop either. And yes, Amazon doesn't charge you until the item ships.

[Nando]

Early review

http://www.neo-geo.com/forums/showthread.php?236481-Neo-Geo-X-Gold-System-details-and-price-announced%21&p=3458483&viewfull=1#post3458483

"..when you buy the Neo-Geo X Gold you should expect it to come with the following: Neo-Geo X handheld system, a charging dock/TV output mount shaped to replicate the Neo-Geo AES home console, a functioning replica of the Playstation 2 AES replica stick (yes, a replica of a replica) and [what I did not receive for review] a copy of Ninja Masters for the Neo-Geo X. All these items together make for a pretty nice bundle, but it should be noted that the system is marketed specifically as a handheld first, with the other peripherals being bonuses of the Gold Edition. The handheld itself is built fairly well.. featuring a 4.5in (estimated) LCD screen (someone else asked about a screen protector seen in other photos: the system ships with a plastic film protecting it.), the classic four-button face layout to the right of the screen, an 8-direction joystick that resembles that of the Neo Geo Pocket Color to the left of the screen, and menu/start buttons directly below the face buttons and joystick. Along the sides of the console you have other controls for the system, including a toggle for brightness and volume, shoulder buttons (which can be used to change the picture size of the game to fit the classic box shape or take up the entire screen), jacks to dock into the AES charger/TV dock.. thingy.. , headphone jacks (to me, the lack of this would be a dealbreaker for a handheld), and (what appears to me to be an SD) card slot that the game cards would go into. The back has that gripping rubber texture to make it easier to hold onto as well, and features the SNK logo etched into it. The Neo-Geo X is a bit larger than some smartphones, so it isn't quite pocket friendly. "

"Gameplay
This was the other major concern, how well does the system handle the emulation. We went back and forth between the two systems, testing Metal Slug, King of the Monsters, Magician Lord, and Last Resort to see how it handles various genres and different sized games. Thank. God. the emulation was perfect.. I saw no graphical issues and similar slowdowns in the same spots so it feels like a flawless interpretation. The firmware still pisses me off to no end because it's clunky and overly simple but as long as playing games on it works as well as it does, I can ignore that. If you're reading this Tommo, release a firmware update that doesn't feel like a Windows 95 file navigation and selector!"

[jlued686]

It sounds awesome...but I still don't want to pay $200 for it.

[fraggore]

I want one, looking to get it early next year, my mate has pre-order one in the UK but it have been. Delayed to the 18 th of December so I wait and see his up and running then I bet I will be gagging to get one.

[TheClash603]

Hope it doesn't get delayed anymore, cause I asked for this for Christmas and that wouldn't be good/fair for my gf since she preordered for me.

[PikachuWarrior]

sold out at amazon and gamestop now.

[GohanX]

I've had this preordered for a while, but I was a little nervous about how to approach the wife with the idea of spending $200 on a system at Christmastime on myself. Last weekend I casually mentioned that the release date got pushed back, and that preorders were sold out everywhere. Her response? "You DID preorder one, didn't you? You've been talking about that thing all year!"

Score!

[psychobear]

Haha, my girl pre order it for me, I was going to wait a few months for it, came home and saw the receipt...

[Mishran]

12/18 is almost here! Who else is actually excited about this other than me? Some folks, according to N-G.comm have actually already received theirs. I was trying to get the guy at Gamestop to give me mine tonight, but he wouldn't budge. I know they have them in the back already. Oh well, guess I'm waiting till Tuesday.

[Deletion]

Really looking forward to getting this. Amazon shipped my order and it's due to arrive on Wednesday 12/19.

[Deletion]

Not too crazy about the loud "click" of the sticks, but overall the system looks great.

Pete Dorr's unboxing vid:

[PCEngineHell]

Looks like no blood in Metal Slug, so they are just emulating the US AES mode for games. Gay....

[GohanX]

Not too crazy about the loud "click" of the sticks, but overall the system looks great.

That's the best part! Real microswitches!

This thing isn't perfect, but it's pimp as hell. As a handheld, I give it a 9, as a console...well, let's just say it's not going to replace my AES.

[Mishran]

It isn't meant to replace anything. It's a handheld Neo with 20 built in games. The console part is more of a bonus. Not to mention the free Ninja Master's game card included with the gold package to give people a taste of things to (hopefully) come.

Like most people, my only real complaint is the dock. It looks cool, but seems to require extra care when handling it. As some people call it, it feels "cheap".

Firmware updating has been mentioned already about the X, so hopefully we will see features in the future such as region changing and MVS mode.

Fingers crossed we will soon hear more news about future releases for the game cards. Metal Slug series, Robo Army, the Sengoku series, perhaps more of the shooters... Prehistoric Isle 2 perhaps. Wish they had left out the original Fatal Fury though. There are too many fighters built into this thing as it is.

[turbokon]

I preordered this on Monday from target and it should arrive tomorrow. I tried to hide it from my wife but she saw the shipping confirmation email and started asking questions. For a minute there I thought I was in trouble then I turn around and said that I'm planing to sell a few things on eBay and so now its all good:)

[Frank_fjs]

I still don't get it. $200 for a cheaply made Blaze handheld?

I bought this 3 years ago brand new for $50. It emulates Neo Geo, PC Engine (Hu and CD), NES, SNES, FDS, Game Boy, Master System, Game Gear, Mega Drive, Mega-CD, CPS1, CPS2, Mame, 2600, Lynx, C64, plus many more. It has save states, full settings control for each emu, TV out, FM radio, MP3 and video playback, sound recorder, picture viewer, Flash and PDF viewers, the list goes on. 8 hours battery life with solid use, rechargeable via USB, 4GB of built in storage expandable via SD, oh and you can throw any rom you like on there.

[Nazi NecroPhile]

I still don't get it. $200 for a cheaply made Blaze handheld?

I bought this 3 years ago brand new for $50.

Did it come with a seemingly decent joystick and 20 games you legally own?  Yeah, you definitely don't get it.

[Deletion]

Not too crazy about the loud "click" of the sticks, but overall the system looks great.

That's the best part! Real microswitches!

I should've clarified I'm not crazy about the clickiness of the stick on the console. I'm used to it on arcade/fight sticks, but not on a handheld. I'll just have to be careful to not annoy everyone around me.

[JoshTurboTrollX]

I still don't get it. $200 for a cheaply made Blaze handheld?

I bought this 3 years ago brand new for $50. It emulates Neo Geo, PC Engine (Hu and CD), NES, SNES, FDS, Game Boy, Master System, Game Gear, Mega Drive, Mega-CD, CPS1, CPS2, Mame, 2600, Lynx, C64, plus many more. It has save states, full settings control for each emu, TV out, FM radio, MP3 and video playback, sound recorder, picture viewer, Flash and PDF viewers, the list goes on. 8 hours battery life with solid use, rechargeable via USB, 4GB of built in storage expandable via SD, oh and you can throw any rom you like on there.

Is that the Dingoo?  I have one of those and it's super unreliable and buggy as hell.  I have had good times with it, but it's just an emulator that has issues.  I's hope the NeoX is leagues better than that.

[SMF]

I received mine yesterday and have yet to open it (Work) But as a child of the 90s and middleclass parents, I was never going to own a TRUE Neo Geo and with this i a very happy boy.

[PikachuWarrior]

Mine arrives tomorrow from Gamestop.com. Can't wait!

[GohanX]

I'd like to point out that the handheld is NOT cheap feeling, just the dock.

Then again, the AES system used cheap plastic on the case too.

[GohanX]

*edit*

Wrong button!

[SMF]

I'd like to point out that the handheld is NOT cheap feeling, just the dock.

Then again, the AES system used cheap plastic on the case too.

That's good to know I was alittle nervous about that. Hopefully they release more sd cards for it. Seems like a sweet little handheld. Can't wait to sit down and play it for a bit.

[GohanX]

The handheld feels pretty good. It's nice and comfortable, with a rubber back to it. The d pad feels like it's halfway between the NGPC's pad and the one from the Neo CD pad, I like it better than either. The face buttons are pretty good as well. The L and R buttons at the top aren't that great, but they are only used for switching aspect ration (L buttons) and pausing (R buttons.)

The screen is pretty good, although not as good as the current lineup of handhelds like the Vita or 3DS. I'd say it's about on par with a PSP 1000's screen, maybe a hair better.

After playing with it for two days, I'm really happy with the handheld itself. I do eagerly await someone figuring out how to hack a Unibios in it though, so I can turn on red blood in the appropriate games.

I'm super happy with the stick, especially since it works with the PS3 and PC without a hitch.

The only thing that's really disappointed me with the thing is the quality of the AV out.

[futureman2000]

What's up with the av out?

[SignOfZeta]

So do you just get AES mode set to US territory? Good luck ever beating Viewpoint or Sengoku.

From what I've read the video out is fucking terrible, which surprises me absolutely not even a little, but the built in screen is nice. A lot of people seem to have bought this thing to use as a console more than a handheld, so those people are fuct, I guess.

[PikachuWarrior]

it's not as sharp and looks washed out.

[GohanX]

"Fucking terrible" is a good description for the AV out. HDMI out is supposedly better, but still pretty bad. I don't have a HDTV to test it.

It's kind of a shame. I'm not as picky about my gaming being absolutely perfect like I used to be, and I would be perfectly happy doing most of my Neo gaming on what is basically a rombox with a kickass controller. Guess I'll get back to work on my CMVS after Christmas, it will not be retired yet!

[Mishran]

Haven't tried docking it yet myself, but will try it tonight. I'm completely happy with it as just a handheld, so perhaps I may just return it and wait for the handheld only version. Perhaps they will have improved things with it by then. All depends on my experience with the "console".

Find it worrying that they would release the gold package knowing that the video out has issue. Perhaps that is why all the preview videos were shown with it being used on a smaller tv, to make the video problems less noticeable?

My gaming tv is a 19" LCD and even the NES looks decent on it when hooked up, so maybe the X will too. Of course I've never been picky about video quality like most people are these days. I still hook my NES up by RF and all my others still get hooked up by composite. Of course the 360 and PS3 are HDMI when I do play them, which is very rare. Old school is the only school for this gamer. Until I see something worth investing in, I'll likely be skipping on any future next gen consoles. Ok, I've already gone completely off topic, so I'll stop here.

[jelloslug]

So do you just get AES mode set to US territory? Good luck ever beating Viewpoint or Sengoku.

From what I've read the video out is fucking terrible, which surprises me absolutely not even a little, but the built in screen is nice. A lot of people seem to have bought this thing to use as a console more than a handheld, so those people are fuct, I guess.

I tried it side by side with my AES last night and the Neo-Geo X AV out was darker and a little less crisp than the AES.  The HDMI looked worse IMO as it had a lot more digital artifacts from being up converted.  You mileage may vary depending on your TV but it seems that no one has come out and said that they like it better than a real AES.  The built in screen looks really nice though and the packed in controller is a faithful replica of a standard AES controller.

[SignOfZeta]

Are you saying the thing looks worse than an AES using OEM composite out on an HDTV?

That's got to be pretty fucking horrible. OEM composite on an AES is absolutely terrible. HDTVs murder bad composite by nature.

I think I'm just going to get the handheld-only pack.

[Tatsujin]

so everybody needs to buy an extra framemeister to get the nice picture. only bad, it will cost like 3 times as much as the NG-X costs.

[PikachuWarrior]

Let the hacking begin:

http://www.neo-geo.com/forums/showthread.php?239578-NeoGeoX-Hacking-and-Mods

[Frank_fjs]

That is going to be so easy to hack.

There's an open sourced handheld called the GCW that runs a modified version of Linux created for handhelds (Open Dingux) and it's using the exact same CPU. The benefit of this is that there's already an OS and emulators ready to go and most likely fully compatible with this Neo device after some recompiling and modifications to suit the LCD.

[Mishran]

I've been playing using the stick and dock and gotta say, I'm none too impressed. Composite didn't look bad at all, but HDMI looked pretty bad even on my tv. The bad video was mostly noticeable on the faster paced games. More specifically, the fighting games.

Joystick? Well, not sure what everyone else feels when using it, but when your reach the "edge" of the stick's movement, I get an extra bump with the sound of plastic scraping against plastic. Never used a new Neo joystick, so maybe it's normal to hear that until the stick gets broken in? Aside from that, it's very responsive and feels very AES like.

I do believe I'll hold onto the gold bundle cause there is much potential hidden away in this little handheld. Perhaps perfection is only a firmware update away.

[GohanX]

Are you saying the thing looks worse than an AES using OEM composite out on an HDTV?

I don't have an HDTV, but I do believe the composite out is worse than an AES with bad composite video. It's been years since I used an AES in composite though, so my memory may be fuzzy.

[psychobear]

It looks like crap on HDTV, I hook it up to my old Sony triton and it looks better, and by better I mean better then HDTV still looks like poop thought.

[GohanX]

I should note, as bad as it is, it still doesn't prevent me from using it. I had a hell of a good time with Real Bout Special last night!

[TheClash603]

Just got my stick today!  It was fun circling the joystick and pressing buttons...  lol.  The actual system will be mine on Christmas day

I will say though that I really thought the stick came in classy packaging and I was pleasantly surprised it wasn't in some toy looking crap with a cartoony logo on the front.

[turbokon]

It's say to leave it in the dock and switch it on, the dock switch, to charge. This seems odd to me. I would think it should default to charge when off and in docking station. You have to leave the system on to charge?

[Frank_fjs]

It appears that this is using FBA for its emulation, which doesn't come as a huge surprise. The door for adding more roms to this device are rapidly being pushed open!

I wonder what people who care about 'legally' owning roms think about the fact that Blaze didn't 'legally' license the emulation software?

[Frank_fjs]

It's say to leave it in the dock and switch it on, the dock switch, to charge. This seems odd to me. I would think it should default to charge when off and in docking station. You have to leave the system on to charge?

This isn't uncommon with these types of handhelds. They usually charge from a powered USB source and the console needs to be on to receive power from it.

[GohanX]

Apparently you can charge from a micro usb cable/charger. I'll have to see if I can find a cheap one somewhere.

I'm pumped that this thing is basically a Dingoo with a faster processor.  Also since the emu is FBA, it should be relatively simple to replace the bios with a Unibios and set the thing to V sync.