5 New Neo Geo Games You Can Play Right Now

If you thought the Neo Geo era ended decades ago, think again. Thanks to a small but passionate community of homebrew and indie devs, real Neo Geo fans are still getting fresh new titles—some even arriving on official-style AES/MVS cartridges in 2025.

These aren't just ROM hacks—they’re full-on games built from scratch with the powerful 2D hardware in mind. Whether you're rocking a real AES cabinet, an emulator, or a multi-cart setup like the Vortex, these games belong in your collection.

Here’s your rundown on five new Neo Geo releases that deserve your attention.

 1. Gunlord

Genre: Run‑and‑Gun / Metroidvania
Originally released in 2012, Gunlord is still one of the most ambitious new titles ever made for the Neo Geo. Developed by NG:Dev.Team, this maniacal love letter to Turrican is packed with massive levels, hidden upgrades, and tight, explosive combat.
Why it hits: Non-linear exploration, gorgeously detailed sprites, and run-and-gun action done right—this one feels like a never-released Neo Geo classic. 

2. Neo XYX

Genre: Vertical Shmup
First released in 2013 by NG:Dev.Team, Neo XYX is a hardcore, score-chasing shoot ’em up inspired by Toaplan and Cave shooters. With crisp spritework, responsive controls, and insane difficulty, it nails the look and feel of arcade-grade fighters—only this one's brand new.
Why it hits: If you're into shoot ’em ups that demand precision and polish, this one delivers bullet-hell thrills and Neo Geo power. 

 3. Final Vendetta

Genre: Beat ’Em Up / Street Fighter Hybrid
Coming in Q2 2025 from Bitmap Bureau, Final Vendetta blends classic beat-’em-up action with one-on-one fighting flair. Currently delayed for quality assurance, this one promises a physical AES/MVS release that blends flashy boss fights with polished sprite work.
Why it hits: Arcade brawler meets fighting game in a flash—exactly the kind of unexpected Neo Geo combo we live for.

4. Cyborg Force

Genre: Run‑and‑Gun
This brand-new AES cartridge from Neo Byte Force drops you into a stylish, challenging run-and-gun romp. Sure, it's tougher than your average Turrican knockoff—but underneath lies addictive depth and punching action that keeps you coming back.
Why it hits: Twitchy gameplay, serious challenge, and collector-quality release packaged like a legit Neo Geo title. 

5. In the Hunt 

Genre: Underwater Shoot‑’Em‑Up
Homebrew developer Casa De Ruivo is working on a Neo Geo port of Irem’s classic shmup In the Hunt. The demo runs on Neo Geo hardware and even lets you switch between arcade and PS1-style music. It’s a love letter to gritty ’90s shmups with massive value.
Why it hits: The fan port nails authentic hardware support and adds a few tricks of its own—this is a sign of a thriving community. 

Final Thoughts: Neo Geo Lives—and It’s Still Pushing

These releases prove it: the Neo Geo community isn’t just preserving the past—they’re creating its next chapter. From hidden gems to hardcore shmups, each title brings that signature SNK swagger back into the spotlight.

Deck it out with authentic AES cartridges, boot ’em up on a multi-cart, or load the ROMs in an emulator—these games aren’t just retro. They’re proof that great hardware inspires creativity long after its heyday.

Gear for the Neo Geo Generation

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