For those of you who loved gaming and played classic Neo Geo shooters—did you know about the legendary but little-known developer behind them, Aicom? Tracing its roots, Aicom began in 1990 as Nihon Aicom Co., Ltd., a subsidiary of Sammy Corporation. Though quickly absorbed into Sammy soon after its founding, their development prowess never faded into obscurity.

Even after the merger, the staff didn’t just fade into the company—they kept moving forward, driven by belief in their own skills. In the early 1990s, the shooter “Viewpoint,” released by Sammy after a 12-year gap, was actually developed by former Aicom staff. Their work featured detailed pixel art and a unique perspective, captivating attention and surprising many players. Though not a major player, their creative spirit made a strong impact on the game industry of the time.

Later, the former staff restarted under the name “Aicom.” Then in 1996, backed by prestigious companies SNK and Takara, they renamed themselves “Yumekobo.” Around this time, they released “Pulstar,” a side-scrolling shooter still remembered today as a masterpiece. Its challenging difficulty and stunning graphics left players in awe. Its sequel, “Blazing Star,” expanded its fanbase with refined visuals and more developed storytelling.

Yumekobo’s journey eventually led them to become a subsidiary of the former SNK. They went on to develop titles such as “The King of Fighters: Kyo,” “Prehistoric Isle 2,” and various Neo Geo Pocket games, earning solid trust behind the scenes. However, in the early 2000s, SNK’s financial struggles led to Yumekobo’s eventual dissolution. Their journey through triumph and hardship remains deeply etched in the hearts of retro game fans.

The names Aicom and Yumekobo may now be known only to enthusiasts. However, the works they created are still appreciated and are being reevaluated as timeless retro games. A small team that showcased overwhelming passion and technical skill. Learning their history may just enrich your perspective on gaming.