How to Legally Get Video Game ROMs

Video game emulation has become extremely popular over the years with people even developing their own systems that run different ROMs. But with the legality of video game emulation being so up in the air, how does someone legally get a video game ROM?

Video Game ROMs: Are they Illegal?

The short answer is yes, video game ROMs are illegal. Well, at least most of the time. What does this mean? Getting ROMs from someone else is illegal, as it would mean the person is wrongfully distributing a game that does not belong to them while still keeping the original copy.

However, if you were to rip a game yourself and play the ROM, that would not necessarily be illegal. It is once it starts getting distributed that the legality of the situation changes.

So, how do you legally get a Video Game ROM then? Is there any way to download one online without breaking the law?

Related: Is Video Game Emulation Legal?

How to Obtain Video Game ROMs Legally

Unfortunately, the only way to legally obtain a video game ROM is to rip the game yourself. Just make sure you do not begin to distribute the ROM to others because that is how you can get in trouble, especially if you try selling it.

However, how often are companies pursuing individuals who download a ROM online for themselves? Probably pretty scarcely, if even at all. The ones who are the most at risk are those distributing the ROMs themselves.

Still, this does not mean you should break the law simply because you are not going to get caught.

If you could legally download any ROM in the world, what game would it be?

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