Frequently Asked Questions

What is the long-term mission of RetroTorrents?

The primary mission is to provide free and permanent access to playable retro video games and soundtracks, especially large disc-based games that are difficult to distribute for centralized websites. Our secondary goal is to create a rich user experience with clear visuals, metadata, and game previews.

How do you define the criteria for including a game in the collection?

For simplification, the console must be at least 21 years old since its first release. This allows the team to move towards having an expanded library of previous consoles before moving to further generations.

How does RetroTorrents position itself regarding copyright and intellectual property laws?

We at RetroTorrents believe that current copyright laws are overly restrictive and fail to serve the public good, especially for 'abandonware' or culturally significant works that are no longer commercially available. These laws are a form of information hoarding that harms, rather than saves cultural access and preservation.

How do you ensure file integrity?

Original and uncompressed files must be verified before compression and must keep their original hashes, tested against databases such as Redump for discs, No-Intro for cartridges, and TOSEC. We utilize lossless compression.

What happens if a rights holder requests the removal of a specific game?

RetroTorrents does not host the files directly. We only provide the BitTorrent magnet links that redirect users to a swarm who have the files on their devices and are distributing them without a fee or paywall.

How can the community contribute?

Contributors are encouraged to seed the files and host mirrors of the Retreye Index or contribute to the community databases that provide media (covers, screenshots, etc.). As long as users seed, they are the backbone of RetroTorrents.