In an era where hitting 150 million users is rare, Hamster Kombat has emerged as a phenomenal success, setting a new benchmark in the gaming world. Launched just a few months ago, this Telegram-based game has quickly amassed an enormous user base, becoming one of the most talked-about apps of 2024.
Previously, Pokémon GO held the record for the fastest-growing app, achieving 150 million users in 33 days back in 2016. This record was broken in the summer of 2023 by Threads, Instagram’s competitor to X, which hit the same mark in just six days. Now, Hamster Kombat joins this elite group, reaching above 150 million users faster than any other app in recent history.
According to a recent report, Sébastien Borget, co-founder of The Sandbox metaverse, attributes this rapid growth to the innovation in Telegram-based games. He stated,
This is exciting and powerful. It shows how things move in this industry with the network effect of Web3. In weeks or months, they grow to unbelievable scale.
Hamster Kombat, described as a “crypto exchange CEO simulator,” stands out with its unique gameplay. Players start as hamster avatars who manage cryptocurrency exchanges, earning virtual coins through diligent tapping and strategic management. This hybrid approach has captivated millions, driving exponential growth in user numbers.
The game’s success extends beyond its user base. Hamster Kombat’s YouTube channel has become a sensation, outpacing even MrBeast, the platform’s most subscribed-to channel. Since its launch on May 24 to June 26, the channel has accumulated over 473 million views and generated $5.2 million in ad revenue. Daily views average 21 million, translating to approximately $230,000 in daily ad revenue.
The developers have announced plans for a token launch on the TON blockchain, with an anticipated airdrop expected to drive further engagement. This move echoes the success of Notcoin, another viral Telegram game, and has fueled speculation of significant rewards for Hamster Kombat players.
Crypto Shift: Staking Derivatives Down, Gaming Tokens Up Amid Bitcoin RallyDespite concerns about bot activity, the game’s genuine user base remains substantial. Inal Kardan, head of gaming at TON Foundation, estimates that at least 50% of Notcoin’s users are real, suggesting a similar proportion for Hamster Kombat.
Hamster Kombat’s unprecedented success highlights the potential of Telegram mini apps to engage massive audiences and reshape the gaming landscape. This marks a new chapter in the play-to-earn revolution.