The original version of Mickey Mouse entered the public domain on January 1, 2024, and already an alternative universe where the dark side of the mouse exists is unravelling
Beloved by fans and brands since his debut in Steamboat Willie in 1928, Mickey Mouse is one of the most (if not the most) popular creations of Walt Disney. The cultural phenomenon is known for his trademark red shorts and endearing personality, taking both the young and the old through his mischievous antics and thrilling adventures.
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On January 1, 2024, after nearly a century, the classic iteration of the mouse slipped off Disney’s copyright leash in the US. While this doesn’t change Disney’s copyright hold over the more modern versions of the mice, what this means is that creatives can now use the earliest versions of Mickey and Minnie–shared, performed, reused, repurposed, or samples–without getting sued to oblivion.
Here are some (arguably strange) things coming out of the end of the copyright.
Infestation: Origins (previously titled Infestation: 88)
Nightmare Forge Games has announced Infestation: Origins, a new horror game which features Mickey Mouse as he appeared in Steamboat Willie. Scheduled for release sometime in 2024, the game aims to blend terror with nostalgia. It was initially titled Infestation: 88 but the developers renamed the game after being criticised for reflecting neo-Nazi themes.
