Hamster Kombat is a popular play-to-earn game hosted on Telegram, leveraging The Open Network (TON) blockchain. Launched in early 2024, it quickly gained traction, with over 250 million players globally by mid-2024. The game combines elements of clicker mechanics and cryptocurrency management, where players take on the role of a hamster CEO managing a virtual crypto exchange.
Players earn virtual in-game coins by tapping on their digital hamster, completing daily tasks, and participating in special events. These coins can be used to upgrade the virtual exchange, enhancing the player’s earning potential. The game also includes a referral program that rewards players for inviting friends, further boosting their in-game earnings.
Players’ in-game coins are expected to become convertible to HMSTR tokens, a new cryptocurrency set to launch during a Token Generation Event (TGE) in Q3 2024. This conversion should allow players to trade their earned tokens on cryptocurrency exchanges, integrating real-world value into the game.
Hamster Kombat’s popularity is bolstered by its engaging gameplay, strategic elements, and the promise of real-world rewards. The game has seen significant adoption in countries like Nigeria and Iran. The anonymous development team aims to reach 1 billion users globally, promoting financial literacy and universal basic income through their edutainment project.
According to an article by Sergio Goschenko for Bitcoin.com, citing a report by Russian news outlet Oreanda, Anatoly Aksakov, Chairman of the State Duma Committee on the Financial Market, has called for the game’s operations to be halted in Russia, labeling it manipulative and scammy.
Apparently, in a recent interview with Parlamentskaya Gazeta (“Parliamentary Newspaper” in English), Aksakov expressed his concerns, stating that the game should be stopped. He described it as a scam that manipulates the psychology of citizens. He pointed out that it targets individuals who dream of getting rich with minimal effort without a real desire to work.
Aksakov further criticized the activities required for Hamster Kombat users to earn virtual coins, which will be distributed in an upcoming airdrop. He described these activities as manipulative, emphasizing the vulnerability of people who are easily influenced. He pointed out that such games can lead to internet addiction, stressing the psychological impact of these activities.
Per Bitcoin.com’s report, despite the criticism, Hamster Kombat has been a significant success in Russia. Local retailers have reported a nearly threefold increase in sales of muscle massage gun devices from May to June, which players use to tap their mobile device screens more efficiently. The game’s influence has also been recognized beyond Russia. In countries like Iran, Hamster Kombat is viewed as a “soft war” instrument, reflecting its broader geopolitical implications.
Featured Image via Pixabay
