Sharing/Distributing Maps/tileset/database files?

[Parallax Panda]

Simple question, are we allowed to create and share the files from the data folder containing map, tileset, database (etc) information with other users (people who own a license)?

I’m asking about the custom data files created in each project, not the actual RTP files.

I know pre-made maps are not allowed to be posted as resources on this site. But since mapping workshops are, does that mean we’re technically allowed to create maps for others (for a specific project and/or general use), and share these files by uploading them to a cloud storage like dropbox (or some other convinient place)?

I’m not only asking about maps but all kinds of data files, like pre-made lists of weapons/items etc in the database and so on.

Thanks for reading!

 

[Sharm]

Yeah, map files and similar are fine. There's no actual image data, so it's not like sharing paid resources, really you're just sharing the work you've done.

We don't think of these maps and databases as resources but allow people to do individual requests because these sorts of things are what makes your game. Using one that's the same as someone else's means that it's the same game for that part.

 

[Parallax Panda]

Just found this old thread of mine and I'd like to add a follow-up question. Or rather, expand the original question to get even more clarification on the matter. So I guess I'll "Bump" it.

Are we also allowed to commercially share these data files?

For example, are we allowed to make a map for someone and give them the data file in exchange for money? I suspect the answer would have to be "yes", since there's a lot of that going around, but I'd still like an official statement.

If yes, then is it safe to say we would also be allowed to upload such data files to a platform such as itch.io and set a price on it? Or, have it up for free with the option of people being able to donate if they want? Or, just give it away as a reward at some crowdfunding site?

Well, to make it simple; Are we allowed to get money (in any way or form) in exchange for sharing the .json data files located in ProjectFolder\Data\ which are created as a result of work we ourselves put into the engine?

The files I'm talking about, if it's not obvious, would be those listed below:

Animations.json
Armors.json
Actors.json
Classes.json
CommonEvents.json
Enemies.json
Items.json
MAPXXX.json (replace "xxx" with numbers)
MAPInfos.json
Skills.json
States.json
System.json
Tilesets.json
Troops.json
Weapons.json

 

[Shaz]

Yes, you can.

 

[Parallax Panda]

@Shaz
I'm hoping that is the case, but is that an official statement though?

I'd like to be perfectly sure about this before I start exchanging .json files for money in any way, shape or form. I'm not sure who on this forum is to be considered an authority with connections to Degica after all.

 

[Shaz]

Sharm's answer already covers the question. The .json files are not image resources that you have purchased, so there is no issue with you sharing them.

People have been making maps for others for years on this forum, which requires sharing the .json files created. And they've been doing it for money. If there was something wrong with it, it would have been shut down ages ago.

@Touchfuzzy as probably the person with the most "official" connection to Degica on these forums, can you please confirm?

 

[Touchfuzzy]

I don't see a reason why not. It really isn't that much different than selling resources you created or selling a game.

 

[Parallax Panda]

@Touchfuzzy

Okay, fair enough. It's the answer I was expecting and hoping for. But you know, better safe than sorry.

Last follow-up question; how's the rules regarding spreading of the RTP tilesets? I know people share edits and stuff on these forums for free, but that's not really what I'm talking about.

Say you make a map and share the .json file (which I now know is allowed). But you also want to share (or display next to the download link) a .png that contains a screenshot of said map. For the users convenience.

I fully understand we're not allowed to share any DLC assets (obviously), so I'm asking about a .png file (of a screenshoted map) containing only RTP (VxAce, XP, MV). Is this allowed to be shared, even publicly??

If no, are there any specific requirements that make it possible? Example, if you're not allowed to share or display (in thumbnail or otherwise) a 1:1 version of the map in a .png file, is it allowed if the image data is compressed to a certain point where the individual RTP tiles can no longer be lifted from the image?

Once again, I assume this too would have to be okay as long as you're not trying to directly sell the RTP, since the RTP (not sure about MV) is available for download to anyone anyway. But you know, better safe than sorry.

Oh, and thanks for your patience.

 

[Shaz]

Sharing screenshots has always been allowed, even with purchased resources. There are a number of threads where this information has been provided, usually in relation to people wanting to use resources on their website for advertising purposes (using the resources as-is is not okay, but showing screenshots or images of maps where the resources are used is fine).

 

[MushroomCake28]

Yes it's fine to sell or give screenshots of maps made with RTP. You can't, however, send the RTP tileset files (copyright issue), except if the other party own the RPG Maker Engine from which those RTP were taken (licensing issue).

You can share the result, just not the tools.