I would like to ask for your opinion regarding the use of console RomHacks in light of the new FiveM rules and copyright laws.
For those who are not familiar, a RomHack is a modification of an existing video game, usually created by fans, to create a different version of the original game. This can include changes to levels, graphics, or gameplay.
Do you think the use of console RomHacks for creating a virtual console script or an arcade machine would be allowed, provided that all licensed characters are removed?
Thank you in advance for your responses and insights!
Likely not, as you could never prove that everyone who is accessing your server owns that game themselves.
Most of the rom/emulation stuff is based on the assumption that you own the original game. I.E. if you emulate Mario 64 you are are expected to have ripped it from the cartridge/own the cartridge yourself. Ripping the game from and redistributing it is violating IP. Just making visual modifications of the title wouldn’t put you in the clear.
If the software/game has a license (some older games/developers allow users to do whatever they want with the game files) that allows you to do so, you’re probably safe.
For example, DOOM was released under gnu gpl, so you should be able to use it on your server. There are lists of open-source games on Wikipedia and other sites that you would probably use without violating IP:
Yes, I know all that, but here we’re talking about a slightly different case. We’re talking about a RomHack, so it’s a completely different game that doesn’t contain the characters/enemies, etc., from the original game. It’s just a totally modified ROM that no longer resembles the original game at all, but I think I still have my answer. Thank you.
Romhacking still violates the IP of the company. It’s the same issue/situation, you’ve just added an additional step of IP violation.
You’re still using the code of the original game, which for it to not be infringing must be done by ripping the software from the original game itself.
For example, for a romhack of SMB2 to be legal/in the clear, you’d need to own SMB2, rip the game from the cartridge, then modify it and use it privately.
Ripping a game, modifying the code and visuals than uploading it on the internet for others to download and play is basically just violating every aspect of IP possible.
Thank you for all the details, I understand everything now! I think I’ll only use homebrew from now on, with that there shouldn’t be any problems. Thank you!
