NeoBox

What NeoBox is

NeoBox is a native macOS app for playing Neo Geo games with a built-in Geolith emulator core. It accepts MAME-format ZIP files, while users provide their own ROMs and BIOS files; NeoBox does not include or download them. The app scans ROM folders, organizes recognized games using bundled metadata and watches those folders for new additions. The maker says the metadata covers 158 games, including MVS and AES titles through KOF 2003.

For display, NeoBox offers an optional Metal-rendered CRT shader, Auto 4:3 and pixel-perfect integer scaling. Xbox, PlayStation, Switch Pro and MFi controllers connect over USB or Bluetooth, and keyboard input is also available. Save options include timestamped states, numbered slots and individual-game memory cards; F12 takes screenshots. Users can switch from Geolith to external MAME, with the library, save states and bindings carrying over. NeoBox requires macOS 14 or later and is native for Apple Silicon. Its Mac App Store listing describes it as signed and notarized. The NeoBox: Neo Geo Player plan costs $14.99, paid once.

Who it suits

NeoBox suits Mac users who want to organize and play Neo Geo games from ROMs and BIOS files they supply themselves. It is aimed at players who want save states, controller support, display options and a choice between the built-in Geolith core and external MAME.

Limits

NeoBox requires macOS 14 or later, and users must supply their own ROMs and BIOS files. The listed plan costs $14.99, paid once.

Getting started

1. Get the NeoBox: Neo Geo Player plan for $14.99, paid once.
2. Use a Mac running macOS 14 or later.
3. Provide your own ROMs and BIOS files; NeoBox does not ship with or download them.
4. Place ROMs in folders for NeoBox to scan and organize.
5. Connect a supported controller over USB or Bluetooth, or use keyboard input.
6. Choose the built-in Geolith core or external MAME.

Verdict

Pick NeoBox if you use a compatible Mac and want a Neo Geo library app with save features, controller support and Geolith or external MAME. Look elsewhere if you need a platform other than macOS or expect ROMs and BIOS files to be included.