Brandon Sanderson explains why he keeps elves out of his Cosmere universe
Polygon Gaming·60-word summary·1 min read
Bestselling fantasy author Brandon Sanderson explains he excludes elves from his Cosmere universe to avoid J.R.R. Tolkien's overwhelming influence. Sanderson once wrote an essay titled 'Kill the Elves' bemoaning the trope's dominance in the genre. His decision is a deliberate worldbuilding choice to foster original creations within his interconnected novel series, which includes 'Mistborn' and 'The Stormlight Archive.'
Cybet, a fast-growing crypto casino, is gaining attention for its quick withdrawals and no-KYC gaming, appealing to players seeking privacy and modern gaming experiences. The platform offers a wide range of casino games and emphasizes cryptocurrency payments. As the industry evolves, platforms like Cybet are transforming online gambling by prioritizing speed and privacy for users.
Panic, the maker of the Playdate gaming handheld, has banned the use of generative AI tools for development as of April 2026. The company aims to prevent potential misuse of AI in creating content, while still allowing developers to use productivity tools. The move reflects ongoing concerns about AI's role in game development and intellectual property.
A new guide compares the top 10 crypto sportsbooks favored by German bettors, highlighting bonuses, supported coins, and coverage of Bundesliga and esports. The analysis also examines withdrawal speeds, no-KYC policies, and potential GlüStV risks. The guide aims to help users navigate the growing crypto betting market in Germany, where these platforms are increasingly popular.
A Nevada judge extended the ban on Kalshi, a trading platform, citing its event contracts resemble sports betting. The court supports the state's stance that Kalshi's contracts require a gaming license, effectively blocking the platform's operations in Nevada. The ruling emphasizes regulatory concerns over the platform's classification and legal compliance.
Cloudbet released 2026 data showing significant growth in its crypto sportsbook sector. Activity increased across basketball, tennis, and esports betting markets. The platform reports higher transaction volumes using digital currencies for wagers. This trend indicates expanding adoption of blockchain payments within the online gambling industry. Users prefer crypto for faster settlements and privacy. The data highlights how Web3 integration is reshaping traditional sports betting engagement metrics globally.
At GDC 2026, a major investor expressed being 'shocked and sad' that the games industry is 'demonizing' generative AI. The investor's comments highlighted a visible rift between big tech and creative workers at the conference, underscoring the ongoing debate over AI's role in game development and the concerns of industry professionals.
