Emulating old video games

[merveilles]

If I wanted to remake a GameboyColor game, add new features, and make it so you can play it online, could I do that? I'm wondering is GBC old enough that no one is really going to bother me legally about it?

[obesechicken13]

I'm not sure if you'd be safe. I think you'd have to research the patent laws/(intellectual property laws) for copyright materials, as long as the game's creating company disbanded without selling the rights, you'd probably be ok if the game didn't get big. I think the best option though, would be to contact the people who made the game, and ask for permission.

 

In the case of a game as big as pokemon: no. If you really need to, you could make some minor changes and distribute it without your name across the internet free of charge. Names: Instead of "starcraft", do "strategycraft", or something. Remember the original fake pokemon diamond roms(during the gold/silver/crystal generation GBA games)?

[merveilles]

Actually I thought it would be really fun to remake Pokemon Silver lol. If I make a game inspired by it, how close would be too close do you think?

[zq29]

No, I very much doubt that GBC games are old enough to be considered abandon-ware. Especially carrying or infringing the Pokemon trademark!