Hamster Kombat, a former sensation in the Telegram gaming world, is making a bold pivot towards blockchain innovation. The tap-to-earn game, which once boasted a user base of hundreds of millions, is set to debut a layer-2 network on The Open Network (TON) as it seeks to revive its waning popularity and enhance the utility of its native HMSTR token.
This move, supported by the Hamster DAO community, signals the project’s deeper commitment to blockchain technology. However, it raises questions about its feasibility, given its uncertain roadmap and the game’s recent struggles.
Hamster Kombat to Debut Layer-2 Network: A Community-Driven Decision
The decision to launch a layer-2 network was finalized following a community vote within the Hamster DAO. According to the proposal, the so-called “Hamster Blockchain” will utilize the HMSTR token for gas fees.
The vote, held on December 27, achieved the necessary quorum of 1 billion HMSTR tokens, with over 1.18 billion tokens in favor. Notably, a single wallet contributed approximately 737.3 million tokens, accounting for more than 60% of the votes in favor.
Why Layer-2?
Layer-2 networks, built atop existing blockchains, aim to improve transaction speed and scalability. While Ethereum has already established several prominent layer-2 solutions, TON is relatively new to this space.
TON has shown interest in enhancing its ecosystem’s compatibility with Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM) protocols, likely to attract developers and liquidity from Ethereum. The proposed Hamster Kombat layer-2 network would be a first for TON, making it a potential game-changer for the platform.
“Layer-2 solutions are essential for scaling blockchains and unlocking their full potential. Hamster Kombat’s initiative could set a precedent for TON’s ecosystem,” said blockchain analyst Maria Torres.
From Telegram Star to Declining Numbers
Launched in March 2024, Hamster Kombat became a hit, amassing over 300 million sign-ups within five months. Its integration with Telegram, championed by the app’s founder Pavel Durov, positioned the game as a pioneer in bringing blockchain benefits to mainstream users.
However, the project faced a sharp decline after the airdrop of its HMSTR token in late September. Data from IntoTheBlock reveals that the game’s active monthly players plunged by 86%, from 300 million to just 41 million by November.
Several factors contributed to this downturn:
Token Underperformance: The HMSTR token’s value dropped by over 50% shortly after its launch. It currently trades at $0.003006, down 70% from its all-time high.
Market Competition: Rival games like Catizen and TapSwap have captured significant market share in the tap-to-earn segment.
Community Dissatisfaction: Players expressed frustration over unmet expectations and poor development progress.
The token’s market capitalization, which once exceeded $552 million, has now plummeted to $194.57 million—a staggering 65% decline in just three months.
Unclear and Ambitious
The announcement of the Hamster Kombat layer-2 network comes with high expectations but limited details. Critical questions remain unanswered:
Who will develop the network?
What technology will be used?
How will the project be funded?
Adding to the uncertainty, the project’s roadmap hasn’t been updated since September, and the proposed layer-2 network is not mentioned in its original plans.
“The lack of clarity on key aspects of this initiative is concerning,” said crypto strategist James Bell. “If Hamster Kombat hopes to regain its lost momentum, it needs a transparent and well-defined strategy.”
TON’s Growing Interest in Layer-2 Technology
This isn’t the first attempt to explore layer-2 solutions on TON. In July 2024, the TON Applications Chain (TAC) announced plans to leverage Polygon’s layer-2 technology for its own network. These efforts suggest that TON is positioning itself as a competitive blockchain ecosystem, but it’s still early days.
If successful, Hamster Kombat’s project could serve as a model for future developments on TON. However, the pressure is on for the team to deliver tangible results amid heightened competition and community skepticism.
The decision to launch a layer-2 network on TON represents a bold step for Hamster Kombat as it seeks to revitalize its fortunes. While the initiative has garnered community support, its success hinges on addressing key uncertainties and delivering on its promises.
As Hamster Kombat to Debut Layer-2 on Ton makes the headline, the project stands at a crossroads, with its ambitious plans offering both potential and risk. Only time will tell if this gamble will pay off for Hamster Kombat and its beleaguered HMSTR token.
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