Two classic cartoon characters have officially entered the public domain, opening the door for developers to use them freely in video games and other creative projects.
As of January 1, 2026, early versions of Betty Boop and Pluto are no longer protected by U.S. copyright law, following the standard 95-year copyright term for works published in 1930.
The change means creators can legally include these characters in games, animations, comics, and other media without needing permission or licensing fees, as long as they stick to the public-domain versions of each character.
What versions are now public domain
Only the earliest depictions of Betty Boop and Pluto are covered by the public domain status.
Betty Boop’s public domain material includes her appearances from 1930, when the character debuted in Fleischer Studio’s ‘Dizzy Dishes’ cartoon. These early versions feature her original design and personality, which differ slightly from later, more refined depictions that remain protected.
Pluto’s public domain status applies to his initial appearances from 1930, when the character appeared as a dog companion in early Disney shorts. Later developments to Pluto’s design, personality, and branding introduced in subsequent films are still under copyright.
Game developers can now legally use these early versions in commercial projects, including indie and mainstream video games. That includes reimagining the characters as playable avatars, NPCs, or narrative elements, provided the designs and traits are clearly based on the public-domain material.
Developers must avoid elements introduced in later works, such as modern character designs, signature storylines, or branding closely associated with Disney or Fleischer Studios’ later output.
In 2024, the Steamboat Willie version of Mickey Mouse entered the public domain, becoming an inspiration for characters in movies and various video games.
