Not about websites, but copyright issues

[Cyn]

Alright, like the subject says, this isn't about websites but it's still about copyright issues/violations. My husband and I are wanting to hold video game tournaments. What we're wanting to do it charge people to enter the tournament then give a cash prize, or something worth value, to the winner. But I was wondering if it's legal. Would we have to obtain permission from the game company in order to do this? Would we have to pay the company royalties because we're making money off this? And, just in case you're wondering, we're wanting to hold Madden Tournaments (John Madden football). This also brings in his name and I'm assuming his own copyrights. Can anyone help me out with this? Thanks!!;)

[Jason]

I think Nintendo's biggest foe right now is "game emulators" by which users copy and distribute their games. I read through Nintendo's site, and I did not see anything which expressly forbid doing what you wanted, although there might be some trademark problems. However, since you do own the equipment, it is probably less likely that you would get into trouble for simply "renting the use" of this equipment by gamers that come to your home. I would also be sure to state on any printed material that Nintendo owns the rights to these products. The larger issue I see is gambling, and if it is legal in your state or not, but again, "renting" this equipment may be a way to go to get around this if you are set on going for it.