Game emulation legally [closed]
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If I buy a GBA game on e-bay for example but I don't have the console for it, can I proceed to then smash the game with a hammer then download the ROM for it and play it through an emulator, exact same version, exact same region ect...?
Extension: I believe that as soon as anyone buys a GBA/GBC game they own the right to one single copy of said game
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Is it illegal to use a game emulator?
Emulators are 100% legal, as is the process of downloading them. They are no different to other programs you might download such as word processing or music player software. Downloading and uploading ROMs is illegal, however, so make sure you use your own game files.Is emulating switch games legal?
If you want to play classic games on a modern PC, downloading emulators and ROMs (files ripped from cartridges or discs) is a popular solution, offered by sites such as LoveROMs or LoveRETRO.How can I legally play an emulator?
Play Those Old Console Games Using EmulatorsIf you're using Windows, your best bet is RetroArch. This lets you run emulators for nearly any retro system you can imagine and tacks on modern features. For example, you can play two-player games over the internet, which is great if you don't have anyone to play against.Can Nintendo sue you for using an emulator?
False. They claim that making ROMs from official copies, as well as the devices that allow you to do so, are illegal because they can be used to illegally distribute the games online. Quoting from Nintendo's FAQ: Are Game Copying Devices Illegal?Emulation, the Law, and You: Where the Hobby Ends and Crime Begins
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