hello, this is my first game jam and I just have one question, is it against the rules to make a game styled from a another game like dig-dug, Metroid, and etc?

I am not in authority here but I will say yes you can make a game like them. Just don't blatantly copy the same game. Try to have your own take on it, adding interesting mechanics and using different perspective like doing 3D for a 2D game might help. The thing is that every game has originated from other games, like every side scroller came from mario, but they had different takes on the same thing. This is your first jam, so just follow the rules and have fun!

Yes, you are welcome to take inspiration from other games. Take the best things from something else and give it your own flair.

ok thanks

one thing i'd keep in mind is that a lot of the games you might take inspiration from have budgets, plus much more time and far larger teams, so think carefully about what you can realistically implement ;P

ok

Also keep in mind that the game would need to fit into the theme.