Imp's Permissions are as follows:

Modification permission

You must get permission from me before you are allowed to modify my files to improve it

Author notes

It is OK to create and upload compatibility patches for this mod, but be sure to get the other author's permission first. The patches must require Imp's More Complex Needs.esm as a master rather than repackaging any part of this mod.

Question:

Does his permission make it acceptable (Legally and Morally) to make a compatibility patch with itself? In other words, I have updated the mod and fixed some of the script problems causing the log bloat. No new features were added. Can I make this "patch" available for others as it will still require the IMCN download and requires his ESM?

Edit:

BTW, I've read the other thread on abandoned mods and unfortunately, IMCN seems to be an example. Though I know my intentions are not relevant from a legal perspective, they are for a moral perspective. So my question here is for the legal side. My goal is simply to keep the mod working until Imp's return. (I've read other posts that state their expectations Imp will return, so I just want to keep the mod compatble with the latest updates to Skyrim.) As stated above, I would not be repacking his mod, only making a patch ESP (that still requires his ESM) and fixed scripts.

To me, the legal question is regarding the "Modification permission". I'm not adding new features or improving the mod, but I am fixing it, which I think could be considered improving it, unless it falls under the explicit permission to create a patch? (A patch is my only intent.)

Why not just pm the author instead of making a thread about it?

I did, two months ago. That's the "abandonded" part.

Because the author has taken a vacation from modding. (Or is somehow otherwise 'gone')


Based on the info provided above, it doesn't look like you could make an 'update' patch. Since your patch is not for compatability, but a general 'update'.

This is where things can get sketchy. You can either leave it be, the safest option. Or you can make a standalone 'patch' and doesn't redistribute any of his files, but alters pre-existing ones. But be prepared for him to return, and to cooperate if he requests your alteration be taken down or anything like that.

I'd stay away from directly altering his files and redistributing them, he may be fine with it, but he may also really dislike that. (I know I would)

Seems pretty clear. What you're doing falls under modifying his files to improve the mod. So you'll need his permission before releasing that to the public.

What I was not clear on is what constitutes a "compatibility" patch. That's why I asked.

If there's a moderator here, please feel free to lock the thread. I'm not looking for a debate, just wanted a clear answer.

Does your change require his mod as a master, and is otherwise completely independant? If so, compatability patch, I assume.

If your mod contains his files whatsoever, then it's an 'update' and is not allowed.

However Chesko just made a valid post in the other thread on this; Imp's permissions state that even for a compatability patch you need permission. Meaning that no matter what you're dead in the water and uploading even a compatability patch is violating the rules of the Nexus. (If you upload to the Nexus)

I'd say just leave it be.

"Compatibility Patch" implies that you'd be making adjustments to allow the mod to work with some other mod. A mod is by definition compatible with itself, so that doesn't apply.

Though Alex is right, either way it's a dead issue.