Free Repository for Tile Graphics?
Hentai asks: "I want to make a game. Specifically, I want to make a good, open-source computer RPG, with the same artistic style of the early Squaresoft sprite-pushers, like Secret of Mana and Chrono Trigger. I can code well enough, and I can get artists to provide character sprite graphics (which will be open-source, too), but I need background tile graphics on the same vein and caliber as those titles. Web searches invariably lead to commercial or shareware packages, or 'free to the public' tile sets that are, frankly, abysmal. I just need enough quality tiles to start with, and will happily add any new derivations to the repository. Anyone know of a good GPLed tile package that could get me started?"
It's not in the style you desire though - so -1, offtopic, I guess :(
Maybe what you need are a couple of people interested in drawing tiles specificaly for your game. Most games thats use freely available tiles lack the wow factor because a lot of people have seen those exact same graphics elsewhere. Just think of the 23587825 RPG Maker games circulating right now...
Also, when you have artists working for you, they can work to give the game a look that fits to the style and content.
As an added bonus, sprite loving artists are often creative enough to draw stuff that you would never have imagined yourself, which can in turn really improve the atmosphere and even the story of your game.
Freely available tiles can get you started... but its only a good solution in short term. Say, use them to create an enjoyable demo, and lure artists to your projects.
I'm currently working on two projects (a platformer and a 2d shooter), and trust me on this, you need art that fits your game, and that has *not* been seen elsewhere.
I'll probably get flamed for this , but still , I have to ask: Did you consider contributing to an ongoing effort instead of starting a new one? Here's one in constant need if new blood: http://www.worldforge.org/
If you want to make background tiles from other non-background tile images, read through the short Make seamless tutorial.
http://tinyurl.com/4ny52