So after reading over the original post a few times over, i think i got the idea of what the question is.
Its about using copyrighted material and content which he can possibly use in his arcade simulator. And where/ how can he find out which content is copyrited or not.
If by arcade simulator you mean classic arcade games like space invaders and games like that, I dont know.
But i can give you a reccomendation that will save you a bunch of headache.
First!, Make your thing you are making and dont worry about copyrights.
Then when your arcade simulator or whatever thing youre making is close to being complete, like if you have all the key content of your program in somewhat working order, Then you can start figuring stuff about copyright of content.
When your program has all of the key features in working order its much easier to replace content and have it modified to avoid any conflicts with the copyrights.
also
Quote: "We should assign PAGAN to this guy as his personal carer or something."
did i just get myself roped into something here?

dont hate people who rip you off,cheat and get away with it, learn from them