Youtuber offers to return capcom-hidden website if contacted

A Reddit user has offered to relinquish ownership of a website address that video game publisher Capcom seemingly forgot to register, a peculiar digital Easter egg discovered within its latest title, Resident Evil 4 Remake.

Youtuber finds capcom-hidden domain in re4 remake

The domain, NEWDAWN-capcom.com, was unearthed by Gabe Follower, a YouTuber and Valve enthusiast. He stumbled upon it while browsing news after completing the game, and was surprised to find it unregistered.

Follower purchased the domain for $15, revealing he initially considered creating a fake ARG (Alternate Reality Game) to “entertain” fans before admitting to being “too lazy.”

“I really like RE games and was scrolling through news after finishing Requiem,” Follower told IGN. “Saw someone talking about this domain and decided to check it. I was genuinely surprised no one registered it, so I’ve spent $15 bucks just for fun.”

As of now, Capcom has not responded to Follower’s ownership, leaving the purpose of the hidden domain a mystery. The site currently displays contact information for Follower.

This incident highlights the sometimes-absurd realities of digital ownership and the unexpected ways players can interact with game development. While Capcom has been largely silent on the matter, the unexpected publicity might prompt a response. The company has been focused on post-launch content for Resident Evil 4 Remake, including a photo mode and story DLC.

The domain’s existence raises questions about Capcom’s internal processes and the potential for future, similarly obscure, digital surprises. It’s a small quirk, but one that speaks volumes about the meticulous – and sometimes haphazard – nature of game development.

Tom Phillips is IGN’s News Editor.