Russian Lawmaker Calls for Ban on Telegram’s Hamster Kombat Game

Highlights:

• Aksakov warns Hamster Kombat may exploit users with false promises of easy wealth
• Hamster Kombat reaches 239 million users, preps for TON blockchain token launch
• The game serves as an educational platform on cryptocurrencies and Web3

Anatoly Aksakov, the leader of Russia’s State Duma Banking Committee, has voiced serious concerns about Telegram’s new game, Hamster Kombat. He suggests the game might exploit users by promising easy wealth through gameplay. Additionally, Aksakov warned that it might constitute fraud, manipulating players’ psychology.

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JUST IN : Russian lawmaker has called for a ban on Telegram's tap-to-earn game Hamster Kombat, saying it "manipulates" people's minds

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Lawmaker Warns Against Scams in Digital Games

During a recent interview, Aksakov expressed concerns about the possibility of scams in digital games like Hamster Kombat. He noted that game features, such as tasks and boosts for increased earnings, often link to fraudulent activities. The lawmaker stressed the importance of addressing these issues promptly to protect consumers.

Aksakov also remarked on the public’s vulnerability to such games, suggesting a troubling trend of people being easily influenced by the promise of quick gains without significant effort. He assured that the State Duma would thoroughly review the matter to prevent any harmful impacts on players.

Hamster Kombat’s Rapid Rise in the Web3 Space

Since its launch in March on Telegram, Hamster Kombat has rapidly gained a significant user base. Telegram founder Pavel Durov reported that the game has attracted 239 million users and is preparing for a token launch on the TON blockchain. This move is expected to integrate hundreds of millions into the Web3 ecosystem.

.@durov: „Hamster Kombat has become the latest Internet phenomenon everyone's talking about. 239 million people have signed up for this Telegram mini app in just 3 months.

It took Hamster only 73 days to reach 100 million monthly users. Each day, 4-5 million new users join… pic.twitter.com/AK6r8717wU

— ICO Drops (@ICODrops) July 5, 2024

Durov highlighted the game’s explosive growth and its role in promoting digital services and blockchain technology. The game operates on a tap-to-earn model, where players earn in-game virtual HMSTR tokens. The developers plan to convert these tokens into TON-based digital assets, though they have not specified a release timeline.

Web3 Games as Potential Income Sources

Hamster Kombat is more than just a game; it also serves as a platform for educating users about cryptocurrencies and the broader Web3 space. The game’s YouTube channel provides daily news and instructional content, helping newcomers understand and engage with these concepts.

As the game continues to grow, it prompts intriguing questions about the potential of Web3 games to serve as a universal basic income source. These games introduce a novel form of value exchange in the digital economy by rewarding players for their time.

While Hamster Kombat’s rapid rise illustrates the growing acceptance of blockchain technologies, it also prompts a call for closer scrutiny and regulation to ensure consumer protection. As discussions continue, the outcome may establish a precedent for regulating emerging digital games in Russia and potentially beyond.

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