The highly anticipated relaunch of the iconic Golden Owl treasure hunt, a game that originally captivated thousands of seekers for over 30 years, has been delayed but not cancelled, according to its French organiser. The original game, launched in 1993, concluded in October 2024 when the elusive golden owl was reportedly found after decades of worldwide searching by passionate puzzle enthusiasts.
Michel Becker, the game’s co-inventor, addressed recent rumours about the cancellation of “Golden Owl 2,” which was scheduled to commence in early May. Becker firmly denied these claims, explaining that the launch has been postponed due to the current negative climate. “Launching a game like this in such a context is not something we can do,” he said, emphasizing the team’s desire for a calmer environment before moving forward. The previous treasure was uncovered in Dabo, in eastern France, according to Becker.
Despite the announcement, some dedicated fans remain skeptical, questioning the validity of the published solutions to the puzzles that led to the treasure’s discovery. This skepticism has created a “turbulent period” around the game’s future. Nevertheless, Becker assured followers on May 19 via the Discord social network — where many clues and discussions take place — that the Golden Owl hunt will continue, “under other skies, in other hands,” and driven by “more positive passions.” The exact start date for the new hunt is yet to be decided.
The Golden Owl game involves solving 11 intricate puzzles detailed in a book to locate a buried replica of the golden owl. Once found, the winner receives the real prize: a 10-kilogram gold and silver sculpture adorned with diamonds. The game’s original creator, Regis Hauser, known by his pseudonym Max Valentin, passed away in 2009. Following a legal dispute between his heirs and Becker, who had paused the game, it was eventually relaunched in 2021 to renewed excitement.
Adding to the game’s legacy, a documentary about the Golden Owl hunt was released in May, and a book explaining the solutions to the puzzles is also scheduled for publication. Despite the current delay, the passion for this legendary treasure hunt remains strong among its global community of fans and puzzle solvers eager to embark on the next chapter of this enduring mystery.
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