Iranian government officials and hardliners have voiced strong opposition to the play-to-earn blockchain game “Hamster Kombat,” claiming it serves as a tool of Western soft power aimed at distracting the populace from the upcoming presidential elections.
The Game’s Popularity
Despite denials from purported developers about offering crypto, the game’s format and promises have captivated many. The growing popularity of Hamster Kombat echoes the rise of Axie Infinity in the previous bull run, which, at its peak, enabled players to earn as much as $1300 in a month — a significant amount for people in many emerging and developing economies.
Economic Woes
The economic backdrop in Iran has only fueled the game’s popularity. With Western sanctions, high inflation, and a lack of jobs, many Iranians are looking for alternative ways to secure their financial future. The country’s local currency has plummeted in value, and everyday costs have skyrocketed, making traditional saving methods less viable.
Government Concerns
Deputy Chief of the Iranian Military, Habibollah Sayyari, criticized the game, suggesting it is part of a broader strategy to divert attention from significant national events. He said: “One of the features of the soft war by the enemy is the ‘Hamster’ game.” State-sponsored newspaper, the daily JameJam, echoed the government’s sentiments, warning that the game’s allure reflects a dangerous trend of seeking wealth without effort.
Religious Scrutiny
Ayatollah Nasser Makarem Shirazi, a prominent Shiite scholar, declared cryptocurrencies “the source of many abuses” and urged people to avoid games like “Hamster Kombat” involving Bitcoin.
Regional Concerns
Ukrainian authorities, wary of data security amid ongoing conflict with Russia, warned that users’ information stored in Russia could pose risks. The broader issue of malware exposure also looms, as many Iranians resort to unofficial software due to sanctions restricting access to legitimate app stores.
