The fine print

Copyright / Disclaimer

Where we stand on game content, stated plainly.

Effective date: [EFFECTIVE DATE] · Last updated: [EFFECTIVE DATE]

1. We don't provide game content

Virtual Couch does not host, sell, distribute, or provide game ROMs, BIOS files, or copyrighted game content. Users are responsible for ensuring they have the legal right to use any files they load into the service. For the plain-language picture, see How Virtual Couch handles your games.

2. Game files never leave the browser

Game files selected by the user are processed locally in the browser and are not uploaded to Virtual Couch infrastructure. There is no upload endpoint anywhere in the service. Games are identified by a cryptographic hash of their bytes — computed in your browser — never by filename.

3. Trademarks & affiliation

Virtual Couch is not affiliated with or endorsed by Nintendo, Sega, Sony, SNK, Capcom, Konami, or other rights holders whose names or trademarks may be referenced for compatibility purposes. Game titles and console names appear on this site solely to identify compatibility (for example, in the VC Tested guide). All trademarks remain the property of their respective owners.

4. Emulator software

Virtual Couch uses open-source emulator cores running in the browser. Emulator software is separate from game content; the legal responsibility for game files rests with the user who owns and loads them.

5. Copyright complaints

If you are a rights holder and believe content on this site infringes your copyright — for example a screenshot, artwork, or a compatibility entry — contact us at our copyright contact address with:

  • Identification of the copyrighted work you believe is infringed.
  • The exact location (URL) of the material on this site.
  • Your name, organization, and contact details.
  • A statement that you are the rights holder or authorized to act on their behalf.

We review every complaint and respond. Valid requests lead to prompt removal of the material in question.

6. No legal advice

Nothing on this page constitutes legal advice. If you're unsure about your right to use a particular game file, consult the rights holder's published policies or qualified counsel in your jurisdiction.