Game developers are finding ways to launch blockchain-based games with cryptocurrency or NFT elements on Valve's Steam PC gaming marketplace, despite the platform's restrictions banning such games, either by removing crypto and NFT aspects or redirecting players to third-party websites to buy NFTs. These games can't interact with NFTs on Steam, but players can acquire them and use them in the game via external portals.
Google will allow games featuring nonfungible tokens (NFTs) to advertise on its platform, a developer stole $1 million from the Milady NFT collection, CNA Insurance excludes NFT coverage from a $20-million policy, the metaverse is popular in Asian markets, and Binance ends support for Polygon-based NFTs.
Crypto gaming and metaverse investment company Animoca Brands plans to launch a metaverse ecosystem token on Bitcoin through its subsidiary Darewise Entertainment, aiming to create a comprehensive metaverse ecosystem centered around Bitcoin Ordinals, a protocol that allows users to inscribe NFT-like assets to the blockchain and create BRC-20 tokens on Bitcoin. The project will include gaming, brand integrations, real-world experiences, and more, with Life Beyond Studios' upcoming metaverse game being the first to implement the Bitcoin-based metaverse token for in-game assets and virtual lands.
Meta has launched its metaverse game, Horizon Worlds, on mobile and web in early access, while Magic Eden integrates compressed NFTs into its marketplace, Bitcoin Ordinals proposes changing the protocol's numbering system, and Atari founder criticizes play-to-earn gaming; meanwhile, the SEC charges Stoner Cats with offering unregistered securities.
Mythical Games has released Nitro Nation World Tour, a free-to-play mobile drag racing game featuring licensed car NFTs from luxury brands, and electronic musician Deadmau5 is promoting the game and offering an exclusive themed car.
China Daily, an English-language newspaper owned by the Chinese Communist Party, is planning to create its own metaverse and NFT platform, with the aim of promoting Chinese civilization and utilizing technologies such as blockchain, NFTs, VR, AR, and more. The platform will also be integrated with popular NFT platforms like Opensea and LooksRare.
