The Iranian government and hardliners have expressed strong opposition to the play-to-earn blockchain game “Hamster Kombat,” labeling it as a tool of Western soft power to distract the population from the upcoming presidential elections. The game, accessed through the restricted Telegram app, has gained popularity among Iranians looking to make money in the midst of a struggling economy with hyperinflation. Despite the developers’ denials about offering cryptocurrencies, the game’s format has attracted many users due to its potential for earning points and crypto rewards.
Amir Rashidi from the Miaan Group described the popularity of Hamster Kombat as a sign of desperation among the people. The game’s rise in Iran coincides with a sensitive political climate as the country approaches national elections. State officials have accused the game of diminishing enthusiasm for the elections and have raised concerns about its growing influence. Deputy Chief of the Iranian Military, Habibollah Sayyari, criticized the game as part of a broader strategy to divert attention from significant national events, while state-sponsored newspapers have warned about the dangers of seeking wealth without effort.
The controversy surrounding Hamster Kombat has also attracted religious scrutiny, with prominent Shiite scholar Ayatollah Nasser Makarem Shirazi cautioning against cryptocurrencies and games involving Bitcoin. Beyond Iran, the game has raised concerns in other regions, such as Ukraine, where authorities warned about data security risks associated with storing user information in Russia. Additionally, the broader issue of malware exposure poses a threat as Iranians turn to unofficial software due to sanctions restricting access to legitimate app stores.
The economic challenges in Iran have contributed to the game’s popularity, with Western sanctions, high inflation, and a lack of job opportunities driving many Iranians to seek alternative financial solutions. The country’s local currency has significantly depreciated in value, leading to a surge in interest in cryptocurrencies and central bank digital currency (CBDC) among the population and government. Despite the criticisms and risks associated with Hamster Kombat, the game represents a beacon of hope for many individuals grappling with economic hardships, showcasing the lengths people will go to secure financial stability in uncertain times.
As Iran’s presidential candidates continue to campaign using platforms like Telegram, Hamster Kombat serves as a testament to the resilience and resourcefulness of the population in seeking financial opportunities amidst economic turmoil. The game’s allure in offering a potential source of income reflects the underlying drive for financial security and prosperity, despite the controversy and opposition it has faced from government officials and religious leaders.
