Also note that they have to be at least about 70 years old.
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This one is a bit arguable. the definition of public domain varies in different countries.
I think 70 year old rule applies to USA or sth.
if it's public domain and free for everyone to use, why not use it?
for example if there is a free MIT asset pack in itch io why not use it?
isn't the concentration of Pygame jam on the code and programming?
why focus on making assets?
I for one have no Idea how to create sounds, or create a character sprite that can do anything even walking.
What could possibly be the reason?
The 70 year rule is in the jam rules, it has nothing to do with how law sees public domain, it's the jam rules. The jam is clearly not just about coding, it's about the rest of the creativity related to game dev too. You can apparently use AI generators, for instance, I have used one for sound and it sounded fine. The 70 year rule is more so about you being allowed to use "classical" pieces of artwork. Anyways, I don't make these rules but I don't see an issue with them either.