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Video Game Console Emulation

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Real quick: I know the rules about posting about illegal things, so I want to ask about this before asking any other questions. It's legal if you own the original videogame console and an original copy of the game, correct? As in, if I still happen to own a Nintendo Entertainment System and 30-40 games, it's legal for me to grab an emulator and ROM images of those 30-40 games. I've also heard some people say that if it's an old console that is no longer made or supported by the company and the games are no longer produced or sold, then it becomes abandonware and you can download and play to your heart's content. Anyone know for sure?
 

chscag

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An emulator and ROM images of the games involves breaking encryption and as such is against US law. Doesn't matter if you own the games. I know there are varying opinions on this and some folks will speak up about "fair use", but until the US courts decide one way or another, we follow the US law.

Also, it's never a good idea to assume a copyrighted work is abandoned or is in the public domain. Only the copyright holder can say whether or not his\her work can be freely distributed.
 
OP
thekilierdonut
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Technically illegal but morally sound. I doubt people will cause you trouble over this, so go for it.
 

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