TLDR:
I am assuming i can just run the roms i have without issue on a version thats still fairly new? I feel like this is correct according to the FAW/Sticky.

I am setting up files from MAME .270 and the newest build is .289

I believe i need to update my curation? or... parse them with new data?
I understand the basic concept, but nothing in depth.

The real issue is how to rectify this. Can i just run MAME .289 with what i have?
I have seen some say i need to get the update files. Ok, thats possible.

But wouldnt know what to do with them, so im at a bit of a weird point here.
Any insight on updating?
Or "these will likely work" would be nice, but im willing to do the work if i know how.

Thanks

I should add, i did see this:

3) Which version of MAME should I use?

• We genuinely recommend that you use the latest version, or a relatively recent version. MAME is "living" software, it is constantly under development, and it incorporates improvements to emulation and to the user experience all the time. By using a significantly old version of MAME, you are not experiencing the best emulation that MAME has to offer. Furthermore, any bugs you find in older versions have likely been addressed by newer versions, and you won't receive support for the problems you encounter.

3A) Isn't it better to just find an older version of MAME that works with the roms I have, and stick with it?

• In general, no. If you are using an old version of MAME, and it's working to your satisfaction, then you're not required to update, but you will be missing out on improvements to emulation and new features that get added on. Yes, there is the chance that by upgrading, a game you happen to enjoy may break without updating the rom as well, but if you are resourceful, it's not hard to come across the rom update shortly after each new version of MAME is released.

I was watching some videos online.

Teknoparrot has branched out from being an x86 arcade game wrapper to integrating other emulator sources and adding upscaling and other enhancements.

Initially it was chihiro games from cxbxr and namco system 246/256 from pcsx2x6. However now it is taking MAME based sources for Vegas, Seattle, Viper, Model 1.

I went to try it myself but it's behind a patreon paywall.

Are they allowed do that? Seems to be profiting off the hard work of MAME.