Is it legal to release a unity game while under 18

[dusthound]

Is it legal to release a unity game onto a site like Itch.io or Kongregate while under 18? I read the terms of service and it says that I can’t submit content to unity, so does that mean I only can’t submit content to the unity asset store?

[Mauri]

It depends on the platform you want to publish. Most of them require you to be 18+ or having your parents/guardian consent. If in doubt, always ask your parents/guardian.

itch.io says the following in their Terms (under “2. Users and Publishers”):

Summary If you download projects, you’re a User. If you upload projects, you’re a Publisher. Users must be 13 or older. Publishers must be at least 18 or have the legal right to enter into this agreement.

Publishers affirm that they are either more than 18 years of age, or possess legal parental or guardian consent, and are fully able and competent to enter into the terms, conditions, obligations, affirmations, representations and warranties set forth in this Agreement.

Kongregate states the following in their User Agreement (under “3. Requirements To Use Our Services”):

To use our Services or become a “User” (as defined below), you agree that you can enter into a binding contract with Kongregate and that you are not a Child. “Child” or “Children” means anyone under the age of 13 (or under 16 in certain European countries). Creating an account with false information is a violation of this Agreement. Our Services are designed for and directed at people 18 years of age or older and not intended for Children. Children should not attempt to create an account or send any of your information to us. We will not knowingly collect personal information from Children as further provided in our Privacy Policy. If you are under the age of majority where you are located, you represent that your parent or legal guardian has reviewed and agreed to this Agreement on your behalf.

[dusthound]

So this means that Unity does not have a problem with me uploading my games to websites? I get that websites will need your parents consent, I am just worried about Unity not allowing me to upload stuff I have made.

[Ryiah]

@dusthound

So this means that Unity does not have a problem with me uploading my games to websites?

Correct.

[dogzerx2]

Easy life hack: when internet asks you if you’re over 18 just check the ‘yes’ box. I do it all the time. Thought to be fair I’m 36…

[Mauri]

Ryiah is right: Unity doesn’t prohibit you from creating games and publishing them.

It really depends on the platform you want to publish your games on, so be sure to check any Terms Of Service / Terms & Conditions / User Agreements / … beforehand. And if something is unclear, just ask your legal guardian/parents - they don’t bite

[angrypenguin]

@dogzerx2

Easy life hack: when internet asks you if you’re over 18 just check the ‘yes’ box. I do it all the time. Thought to be fair I’m 36…

This could cause problems if you’re selling your games, though. You’re entering into a contract where you want them to give you money later on. I wouldn’t willfully do anything that could add bumps to that road.

@dusthound

I read the terms of service…

I like you already. Most people start out by not reading things, you also seem to be paying attention, and you’re asking intelligent questions to boot.

Rock on!

[Kiwasi]

@dogzerx2

Easy life hack: when internet asks you if you’re over 18 just check the ‘yes’ box. I do it all the time. Thought to be fair I’m 36…

I’ve been 18 and older on the internet since I was 12. It works for general browsing and social media. My kids are also over 18 at 7 and 9. I personally moderate what content they receive and when they are old enough to access it. I’m not delegating parenting of my kids out to the US government.

But when it comes to exchanging money, its a different story. Most countries have minimum ages to enter a contract, and you generally need a contract to get paid. There is a non zero chance that lying about your age makes your contract null and void. If you get caught, you might not get paid. And there is a decent chance that someone will catch you out somewhere. If money is changing hands, get your parents to be the signatories.

[Murgilod]

I was born on Jan 01, 1900.

[dusthound]

@Ryiah

Correct.

Thanks, that was really what I was looking for.

[dusthound]

@angrypenguin

This could cause problems if you’re selling your games, though. You’re entering into a contract where you want them to give you money later on. I wouldn’t willfully do anything that could add bumps to that road.

I like you already. Most people start out by not reading things, you also seem to be paying attention, and you’re asking intelligent questions to boot.

Rock on!

I don’t intend to sell my games while I am still learning how to use unity. I will wait until I can give people a better product.