BitTorrent is a way to distribute files; it does not make a game download legal or illegal by itself. In the United States, legality depends on whether the game’s copyright owner or an authorized source permits that copy and the associated sharing. For a safe, legitimate download, use the game publisher or an authorized storefront and check that it offers the specific game.
Is it legal to download games by torrent?
In the United States, the key question is authorization—not whether the file travels through BitTorrent. The U.S. Copyright Office says that unauthorized uploading or downloading of protected works can infringe the copyright owner’s reproduction or distribution rights. Games are generally protected by copyright, and a copy being available online does not establish permission to download or share it. U.S. Copyright Office: Copyright and Digital Files.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
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GameStop Physical Gift Card | $25.00 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
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Xbox Physical Gift Card | $25.00 | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |
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Nintendo eShop Physical Gift Card | $100.00 | Buy on Amazon |
| 4 |
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Fortnite Physical Gift Card | $30.00 | Buy on Amazon |
| 5 |
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Nintendo eShop Physical Gift Card | $50.00 | Buy on Amazon |
The Copyright Office describes statutory damages of up to $30,000 per infringed work, potentially up to $150,000 per work if willful infringement is proven; attorney’s fees may also be available. These are statutory possibilities, not automatic penalties or predictions of what would happen in an individual dispute. U.S. Copyright Office FAQ.
Torrenting can involve sharing as well as downloading. Whether a particular copy and any distribution are permitted depends on the rights holder’s authorization, the game’s license, and applicable law. This legal explanation is specific to the United States; rules and remedies differ by jurisdiction.
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- Redeemable at US GameStop, EB Games, Babbage's, Electronic Boutique, EBX, Planet X, and Software Etc. stores. Also redeemable online at and GameStop.com and EBGames.com.
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Can a game torrent contain a virus?
It can. The Copyright Office warns that peer-to-peer downloads can expose users to viruses, spyware, or unexpected material. That is a risk, not a claim that every torrent contains malware. A file’s name, comments, or apparent popularity do not establish that it is safe or authorized. The agency recommends authorized online services as a way to avoid infringement liability and limit these risks. U.S. Copyright Office FAQ.
Where can you download games legally?
- Start with the publisher. Check the game’s official website or the publisher’s own store for its download and purchase options.
- Use an authorized storefront. Confirm that the specific game is offered there and that the seller is authorized to distribute it. Availability can vary by title and region.
- Read the applicable terms. Check the game’s license and any platform or software-specific terms for limits on copying, sharing, and use. For example, Epic Games’ EULA says copying or distributing its software is prohibited except where the agreement or software-specific terms authorize it. Epic Games End User License Agreement.
Do not assume a download is authorized just because a game is old, unavailable in a major store, or described as “abandonware.” Verify permission from the rights holder or an authorized distributor.
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Do preservation rules make old game downloads legal?
Not generally. A U.S. regulation provides narrow exemptions for certain uses of lawfully acquired complete games. One provision covers restoring local gameplay when an external authentication server has ceased providing access; other provisions concern preservation activities by eligible libraries, archives, or museums under specified conditions. These limited exceptions do not grant general permission to download an unauthorized copy. 37 CFR § 201.40.
Quick Recap
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- An Epic Games account is required to redeem an Epic Games Store Card code
- If playing on a console platform (PlayStation Network, Xbox Live, Nintendo Switch or Mobile) you need to link your Epic Games account to that gaming platform (one time) to redeem your gift card code
- The 16 digit code on the back of the card WILL NOT work if redeemed directly through your gaming platform (PlayStation Network, Xbox Live, Nintendo Switch, Mobile, etc.)
- Note: Nintendo devices do not support Fortnite Shared Wallet, so V-Bucks purchased using your account balance will not show up on your Nintendo device. However, if you purchase items in the web Item Shop — or another platform where you play Fortnite — those items will be available in your Locker across all platforms.
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Rank #3
- Give the gift of fun with a Nintendo eShop gift code
- It's easy—apply it to your Nintendo eShop account in seconds.
- It ensures that you’ll always have funds on hand to help with purchases of new games and applications
- It’s designed for your Nintendo eShop purchases—no credit card required.
- The perfect gift for anyone who loves to play—including you. Choose from over 1,000 new, classic and indie games – delivered directly to your Nintendo Switch system.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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