
The first day of the new year marks Public Domain Day. During this annual occurrence, numerous works enter into the United States public domain and are free to use by anyone with no fear of any copyright claims being levied against them. In 2024, the most noteworthy addition to the public domain is the Disney animated short, Steamboat Willie. The short is considered the first appearance of Mickey Mouse. Within hours of the new year, one video game has already taken my advice and announced a new non-Disney Steamboat Willie game.