Iranian Officials' Concerns with 'Hamster Kombat'

ChainPlay

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3 months ago

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Iranian officials have criticized the popular blockchain game Hamster Kombat. They believe it is a tool of Western soft power designed to distract Iranians from the upcoming presidential elections. Habibollah Sayyari, deputy chief of the Iranian military, is particularly vocal about this. He claims the game aims to divert attention from important national matters. Religious authority Ayatollah Nasser Makarem Shirazi also speaks out against crypto, calling them fraudulent.

Economic Challenges in Iran

These criticisms do not take into account the severe economic difficulties faced by many Iranians. Western sanctions and high inflation have severely impacted Iran's economy. Currently, 1 U.S. dollar is equivalent to 580,000 Iranian rial. This dire economic situation has led many to explore alternative income sources, including blockchain games. 

In developing countries, blockchain games offer a way to earn money. The game Axie Infinity is an example. At its peak, players could earn up to $1,300 per month, which is significant in developing nations. Though starting to play Axie requires a substantial initial investment, gaming guilds help players manage these costs. Guild members can still make a profit despite the high entry costs.

In spite of its expansion in certain domains, blockchain gaming is still relatively new. 52% of respondents to a OnePoll survey said they had never heard of blockchain gaming. 32% more people are aware of it but have never played. These numbers point to a sizable potential market. They also draw attention to certain problems with play-to-earn games, namely their lack of interesting gameplay and true token utility.

Challenges in Blockchain Gaming

These survey results indicate a large untapped market for blockchain games. However, they also highlight challenges such as real token utility and the need for better gameplay mechanics to compete with traditional console and PC games.

While blockchain gaming is growing, it has a long way to go before becoming mainstream. Improving game quality and increasing awareness are crucial steps. If these games can offer better experiences and real benefits, they may attract more players and become a significant part of the gaming industry.

Final Thoughts

Iranian officials criticize blockchain games like Hamster Kombat, claiming they distract from important national issues. However, for many in developing countries, these games offer a crucial economic lifeline. Despite their potential, blockchain games face significant challenges, including low awareness and quality issues. Improving these aspects could help blockchain gaming reach its full potential.