Duroe Posted April 3, 2003 Posted April 3, 2003 Hello, I checked you guys out and I like what I see. I have a question in regards to copyrights and so forth. If I run a gaming website, for example" Medal of Honor, Allied Assault" Will I get in trouble for using pics from EA and other places? Also I may want to host files of custom maps and so forth. Is this ok? I don't want to work on the site and then have it shut down for breaking the rules! Finally what is the stance on old roms of games that are no longer in production? Can those be put up as well? I know its illegal for all the emulated stuff on the new systems thats why I'm asking. Sincerely, Duroe Quote
Aknot Posted April 3, 2003 Posted April 3, 2003 I use screenshots from AA on one of my websites. Pictures/Screenshots should be no problem. Now if you are "selling" them or charging a fee to look at them I would think you might get into some grey area. Custom maps and "Mods" for games as long as the game allows them (AA does not and you can supposedly get into trouble if you do AA mods) should also not be a problem. I had some HL maps and the such on an older site. Now for the ROMs Im going to have to say I have no clue and or opinion. ALSO I am no way affiliated with Totalchoice. So I would also suggest that you follow up with an email if you do not get a response from a "valid" Totalchoice rep. Quote
Lianna Posted April 3, 2003 Posted April 3, 2003 Actually these are all questions for the copyright holders of the materials you wish to display/provide. For example, Jim Henson Productions makes clear in their legal statements on their website that NO use of any JHP copyright materials or images may be used without express written consent. So, my suggestion to you would be to contact the proper authority for the images, files, etc that you would like to use and explain your case. I was able to properly, in writing via email, receive permission to use and display all of the images/content on my site that was not originally mine. Many companies are very willing to allow the use of their images. Many just like to know who is using it and in what context. Another example. a representative from the Legal Department at Palm, Inc. and I exchanged many emails about my desire to use their circular 'Palm' logo and for making available for download my business card. He was very nice indeed and even went so far as to create a palm.htm page with suggestions of how to incorporate their materials better into my site! I was denied the use of a couple of images and I honored their decision. Bottom line. Your site should contain legally obtained materials and content if hosted here at TCH. Best of luck to you and hope to see you around here again. Quote
Duroe Posted April 3, 2003 Author Posted April 3, 2003 Hello again, Not a problem about asking them first. But what about screenshots that I create in game? That is an option in the game and it is something that I plan to use to a point. So for me to use that image that I created in game would be at there discretion then? Also if possible can you give me a link where I can get more info in regards to use of images and so forth on this message board. I just want to put up a small website and don't want lawyers or anyone else coming after me. Thanks again, Duroe Quote
TCH-JimE Posted April 3, 2003 Posted April 3, 2003 Hi, If you state the site is not a legal one, that the images are not provided by who ever make the game, that the copyright remains theres at all time and no challenge to there status or copyright is made, they might be ok with it. There are many fan sites out there though, so long as you are not offering pirate games and put a copyright notice to the effect above and if they ask u to change anything then change it, otherwise you might be ok. ROMS are deffiently illegal Jim Quote
Duroe Posted April 4, 2003 Author Posted April 4, 2003 Thanks for all the quick responses to my post! I'll take care with what images I do decide to use. In regards to roms I'm not sure they are all illegal. If that were true then FilePlanet would be shut down because they do offer roms on old systems no longer in production. I don't plan on offering pirated material, I just notice that on the web there is not much info on the old systems I grew up with. Thats why i'm posting here to be educated before I decide to spend money and time setting up a site for people like me. I love to play and I have other hobbies as well. Sincerely, Duroe Quote
Lianna Posted April 4, 2003 Posted April 4, 2003 Well, I for one admire your willingness to find the answer instead of claim ignorance. Bravo! As to the screenshot question, I personally don't see a problem with using that screenshot on your site, unless (and there always is one) it is specifically forbidden in the game license or other legal statement made by the author of the game. If you want to know more about copyright infringement, just do a quick search of http://google.com and you'll be amazed. Also, if you'll post here the name of the game itself, I will personally try to track down a website with some legal stuff or an email address that you can contact to make the request for usage. Also if possible can you give me a link where I can get more info in regards to use of images and so forth on this message board.You mean like putting up an avatar for yourself here on this message board? Or am I lost? Quote
Duroe Posted April 4, 2003 Author Posted April 4, 2003 I meant about copyright's, and thanks for the offer of help. I may take you up on it. I think I have enough info now where I probably will sign up. Thanks everyone Duroe Quote
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