EmuParadise shuts down ROM library amid Nintendo’s IP infringement lawsuits

About two weeks ago, Nintendo announced that they are suing two well-known ROM-hosting sites, LoveRETRO and LoveROMs, for mass-scale IP infringement. Today, yet another famous ROM-hosting site throws the towel — EmuParadise. Not because Nintendo targeted them too but more on the risks of maintaining their operation due to Nintendo’s decisions.

EmuParadise began operations 18 years ago and has since been a prime source for Retro ROMS and classic titles. Their decision to pull out their ROMs are viewed by many as part of an end of an era for retro games and titles. While others view it as an end to a part of mass piracy.

The founder of EmuParadise posted their decision via an announcement on the website. While the site is used to dealing with these kinds of legal threats, as well as problems in hosting issues, it looks like the dangers now are bigger than ever.

It’s not worth it for us to risk potentially disastrous consequences. I cannot in good conscience risk the futures of our team members who have contributed to the site through the years. We run EmuParadise for the love of retro games and for you to be able to revisit those good times. Unfortunately, it’s not possible right now to do so in a way that makes everyone happy and keeps us out of trouble. — EmuParadise founder

EmuParadise is not shutting down completely, they’ve just removed their entire ROM database. The founder promises that they’ll still maintain their emulator database, community and everything that comes along with it.

Thus, we have decided to make a new start. We will continue to be passionate retro gamers and will keep doing cool stuff around retro games. But you won’t be able to get your games from here for now. Where we go with this is up to us and up to you.

What they’re actually doing is taking a step at another direction while continuing their pursuit of keeping Retro gaming alive.