Has playing a ROM inspired you to buy a game for real?

[LordTheNightKnight]

First of all, this is not to talk about emulation by itself. It would be best not to even mention a particular emulator program. This is to talk about playing a game on an emulator, and then you liked it so much you bought the game for real.

Second of all, if you think buying a game you can pirate is for suckers... then why are you even on a site where sales is the point?

Anyway, this likely means I admit I use emulators. But as you can see from my games owned list, I also like to buy legitimately. I'd like to think I would buy most of the games I play on emulators for real, if I had the means, or didn't have to import the games (due to them not being in English). I would pay for Parodius, Sailor Moon Another Story, and the Magic Knight Rayearth (Super Famicom version) if they were on the virtual console. And I'm sure a lot of us would pay for the first Mother game if it was brought over here (and Earthbound should be on the VC as well).

So some games that I emulated, but then bought when I could, include:

• Phantasy Star I-IV: When I saw the PS2 Sega Genesis collection had II, III, and IV, it was worth the $20 for that alone. And when we got wireless internet, which meant the Wii could use it, and a Nintendo points card, Phantasy Star I was the first VC game I got.
• Kirby's Adventure: My brother and I played the first Kirby game on the gameboy, and we liked it a lot. I tried this game as a ROM, but somehow this felt better playing just in front of the TV. So I also got it on the VC later on.
• Castlevania Harmony of Dissonance and Aria of Sorrow: I tried these as ROMs, and thought they were great successors to Symphony of the Night. So when I saw the Double Pack, getting them both for one game was a no brainer. So I can now play the games anywhere.

EDIT: Um, is it not allowed to even bring up emulation in this manner (I'm having trouble finding the rules)? If so, then I will accept locking this thread and not bring it up again. If it is allowed, hopefully we can stay on topic. If not, I will accept locking it for that reason.