I used to ignore early Neo games like any n00b out there. It changed drastically, once Everdrives appeared. First I discovered launch games for the Engine and Mega Drive, then came the NeoSD. It was a great experience, supported also by ng.com and the possibility to talk about those games. I'm now at a point where I think, that it's just a matter of time you pour into playing any particular title and how open your mind is, but I agree, that time can be scarce.
Arcade games are less beginner friendly, because of their difficulty and secrets, which you have to discover stubbornly by try & error or a good research. It's worth the effort, though. You won't get far in 8Man, if you don't know that using the two-button special is key. The same can be said about Sengoku 2, which is basically a one-move game, as asid once described it. Cyber-Lip demands a careful schedule when and which weapon you should take and/or reload and where you should use it. The high-jump is important to master, too. Once done, a one credit clear is at hand. Using kicks instead of punches makes Burning Fight accessible, Elta's secret is jumping, not walking... etc. etc.
To cut a long story short, my recommendations for early Neo Geo games: (1990) NAM-1975, Magician Lord, Cyber-Lip, League Bowling. (1991) Sengoku, Blue's Journey, Alpha Mission II, Burning Fight, Crossed Swords, 8Man, Fatal Fury. (1992) Mutation Nation, Last Resort, Ninja Commando, Andro Dunos, Art of Fighting & Viewpoint.