How can you secure rights to use assets in your game design?

1 What are the types of rights for assets?

When you use an asset in your game, you are not necessarily owning it. You are usually licensing it, which means that you have permission to use it under certain conditions. The type of license that you have determines what you can and cannot do with the asset, and how much you have to pay for it. There are three main types of licenses for assets: public domain, royalty-free, and rights-managed.

Public domain assets are free to use for any purpose, without any restrictions or obligations. They are either created by the government, expired in copyright, or donated by the creators. Examples of public domain assets are classic literature, historical images, or folk music.

Royalty-free assets are also free to use for any purpose, but you have to pay a one-time fee to access them. They are usually created by professional or amateur artists, who sell them on online platforms or marketplaces. Examples of royalty-free assets are stock photos, sound effects, or game engines.

Rights-managed assets are the most expensive and restrictive type of license. You have to pay a fee every time you use the asset, and you have to follow specific rules about how, where, and when you can use it. They are usually created by exclusive or renowned artists, who negotiate the terms of the license with you. Examples of rights-managed assets are celebrity photos, original music, or patented code.

2 How can you find assets for your game design?

When it comes to finding assets for game design, there are several options available depending on your goals, budget, and skills. Creating your own assets is the most creative and original way to go, but also the most time-consuming and challenging. Alternatively, you can use public domain assets without paying or crediting anyone, but you must ensure they are truly in the public domain and not protected by any laws or regulations. Royalty-free assets are popular and convenient, but not exclusive and may be used by other game designers. Lastly, rights-managed assets are expensive and exclusive, but also complex and restrictive. They require legal contracts, invoices, royalties, and strict adherence to the license terms.

3 How can you secure rights to use assets in your game design?

When you have found the assets to use in your game design, you must ensure that you use them legally and ethically. This means checking the license type and terms, paying the required fee, crediting the asset source, obtaining permission or consent, and renewing or updating the license. For instance, you must make sure that the license allows you to use the asset for your game design purpose, and pay the fee before using it. Furthermore, if the license requires you to credit the asset source, you must include the name of the asset provider or creator and link to its website. Additionally, if the asset involves any personal or sensitive information, such as names or trademarks, you must obtain permission or consent from those involved. Finally, if the license has an expiration date or a renewal clause, you must keep track of it and renew or update it accordingly.

4 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?