Napster-like Service Enables ROM Swapping

A group of programmers has launched a site called RomNet that will allow participants to exchange videogame ROM software much like Napster users swap MP3s. Unlike current sites where users download ROMs from a central server to play on their PCs via emulation software, RomNet enables people to browse other RomNet users' computers for games. Decentralizing the software distribution naturally makes it harder for game companies to combat piracy. RomNet's 17-year-old founder said of the piracy concern, "Sure, it is a concern that [game companies] may try to shut us down, despite the fact that we don't permit piracy, but I am confident in the law and believe we will prevail." Napster is currently mired in a lawsuit brought on by the Recording Industry Association of America over copyright infringement and its future remains uncertain.