There’s something about the crisp click of a cartridge sliding into its slot that instantly transports you back to the golden age of arcades—neon-lit cabinets humming with energy, the scent of quarters and circuit boards, the thrill of high scores. The NEOGEO Arcade 4 cartridge, the latest addition to Evercade’s purple-hued arcade line, promises to recapture that magic in a handheld format, offering eight SNK classics that defined an era.
This isn’t just another retro re-release; it’s a carefully curated collection designed for both purists and newcomers. The games—Fatal Fury Special, Metal Slug 4, and King of the Monsters, among others—are presented in their original form, complete with authentic visuals, sound effects, and gameplay that feels like a time capsule. Yet, they’re not frozen in amber. Modern accessibility features, including dip switch support for hardware upgrades and AES modes for those looking to push their Evercade systems further, ensure these games remain relevant in 2026.
- 3 Count Bout: A wrestling game where over-the-top moves clash in dramatic championship bouts, blending the chaos of arcade wrestling with SNK’s signature flair.
- Baseball Stars 2: Fast-paced, competitive baseball that captures the essence of arcade sports—quick reflexes and split-second decisions.
- Blazing Star: A horizontal shoot ‘em up that dazzles with explosive visuals and relentless action, a standout in SNK’s run-and-gun lineup.
- Fatal Fury Special: A refined fighting game featuring an iconic roster of characters, balancing classic mechanics with modern polish.
- King of the Monsters: A cult-classic brawler where giant kaiju battles unfold in a mix of strategy and brute-force action.
- Metal Slug 4: The explosive run-and-gun series returns, packed with new weapons, enemies, and that signature blend of humor and violence.
- Robo Army: A side-scrolling beat ‘em up starring powerful androids, delivering tight controls and satisfying combat.
- The King of Fighters 2002: A dream-match entry in the legendary fighting franchise, offering a taste of SNK’s competitive depth.
The cartridge is the 22nd in Evercade’s purple arcade line, signaling its place as both a continuation and an evolution of the series. Priced at £19.99, $29.99, or €24.99, it launches on June 26, 2026, and is compatible with all Evercade hardware, including the Evercade Alpha, as well as HyperMegaTech! Super Pocket consoles. This ensures that whether you’re a seasoned retro gamer or a newcomer to SNK’s catalog, the experience is seamless and authentic.
NEOGEO Arcade 4 isn’t just about nostalgia—it’s about proving that classic arcade games still hold power today. With modern accessibility options and a lineup of games that showcase SNK’s innovation, it bridges the gap between past and present. For those who remember the arcades or those discovering them for the first time, this cartridge is a must-have, offering a definitive arcade experience that stands out in an era dominated by digital downloads. As gaming continues to evolve, titles like this remind us that some traditions are worth reviving—one cartridge at a time.
