Does ROMConsole host or distribute ROM files?
No. ROMConsole does not provide, upload, host, store, stream, link to, sell or distribute ROM files or BIOS files.
Help & safety
ROMConsole FAQ
Clear answers about ROMConsole local-file play, server storage, file hashes, saves, and legal usage responsibilities.
How does local game opening work?
Users select a legally permitted local file from their own device. The file is read locally by the browser player and is not uploaded to the ROMConsole server.
What does the server store?
The server stores platform data only, such as account information, file hashes, save data, stats, achievements, leaderboard records, profile data and community data. It does not store the original ROM file.
What is the file hash used for?
ROMConsole can generate a SHA-256 hash from the selected local file. This helps recognise the same local file again later for save/load support, rolling autosave, stats, achievements, leaderboard matching and private library features.
Can the hash recreate the game file?
No. The hash is not the ROM file and cannot recreate the game. It is only a one-way identifier used to match the same local file again later.
Can users open any file they want?
Users are warned that they must only open files they have the legal right to use. ROMConsole operates on a good-faith local-file model and does not grant rights to any game, ROM, BIOS file or copyrighted content.
Can site owners add public catalogue games?
Yes, but only where they own the content, created the content, have a valid licence or have the required redistribution permission. ROMConsole does not include public copyrighted game files by default.
Is ROMConsole a ROM download site?
No. ROMConsole is a local-file browser player and community platform. It provides the player, accounts, saves, achievements, leaderboards, profiles, messaging, forums and admin tools, but it does not provide game files.
Why is this different from a ROM hosting website?
A ROM hosting website makes game files available online for others to download or access. ROMConsole does not do that. The user selects a local file from their own device, and the server stores only platform data such as hashes, saves, stats, achievements and account information.
Does ROMConsole include legal policy pages?
Yes. ROMConsole includes public policy pages covering legal ROM usage, copyright/DMCA contact, acceptable use, public catalogue rules, privacy, save data and disclaimers.