Response (GM Fenris) 05/18/2007 11:46 AM
Yes, running a paysite featuring content for the Sims 2 is considered to be a violation of both the Electronic Arts Terms of Service and copyright law. This includes both content that is sold directly and content that is offered as part of a subscription service. Additionally, the intent behind providing these tools to the Sims 2 community was to promote the sharing of content, not commercial activity.
All I can say is, it's about fucking time! I am so sick of seeing paysite lovers dodge the issue, and come down like a pack of rabid dogs when someone dares to
hint that it's wrong to have a paysite. Let's see how they dodge this one, eh?
I wonder, too, if this will cause people to STFU about file sharing in general. I'm not saying it's ok to share without giving credit to the creator, or to claim someone else's stuff as your own. It's not. I do, however, get a little weary of hearing about people who take down their sites (or remove their creations from sites such as MTS2), and then, because of their no-sharing policy, you're not allowed in most places to publicly request having those items emailed to you. I really don't see the problem in letting people continue to enjoy items that were previously available. What's the harm in saying "share however you like... just let people know who made it"?
Back on topic: If EA actually follows through and goes after paysites, I hope TSR is the first to fall. That site has been a thorn in my side since I first joined the Sims community... seeing things I liked, only to realize it was inaccessible to freebies only members. Fuckers. I take great pleasure in plundering from the TSR booty. :twisted: