Haunted Chocolatier: Trailer, gameplay, and all the news so far

Nintendo Life eShop Selects Readers Choice January 2024, PC Games

The Excitement Surrounding Haunted Chocolatier by ConcernedApe

Excitement is brewing within the Stardew Valley community as they eagerly anticipate Eric “ConcernedApe” Barone’s latest project, Haunted Chocolatier. Despite the recent 1.6 update for Stardew Valley, fans are looking forward to the new game, which promises to capture the same charm as its predecessor.

Release Date Uncertainty

As of now, there is no set release date or window for Haunted Chocolatier. Barone has been working on the game since 2020, but details are scarce due to his preference for working discreetly. Development progress is likely slow, as Barone focuses on ensuring the success of Stardew Valley 1.6 across all platforms before shifting his full attention to the new game.

Image: ConcernedApe

The release of Haunted Chocolatier is expected to take time, given the ongoing work on Stardew Valley updates. Barone’s solo efforts also play a role, with past distractions like the 1.6 update nudging progress on the new game.

Gameplay Insights

An image of character swinging a stick in the woods rendered in pixel art from Haunted Chocolatier.
Image: ConcernedApe

In Haunted Chocolatier, players can expect a shift towards action-RPG elements with a more significant combat focus compared to Stardew Valley. The core gameplay revolves around gathering ingredients, crafting chocolates, and managing a chocolate shop, departing from the farming mechanics of its predecessor.

Character and Story Details

The game’s premise mirrors Stardew Valley in many aspects, with a new character arriving in town to start a business. Barone aims to infuse the game with supernatural elements for a more whimsical experience, embracing positivity and uplifting themes rather than darkness.

  • Lily, a young character who welcomes players into a desert-themed room.
  • Burk, a burly man overseeing a furnace.
  • Maddie, a person with a soft goth look interested in city life.
  • Jett, a researcher known for his distinctive hair.
  • Miguel, a bartender exuding intensity with furrowed brows.

Unique Identity

Barone is clear that Haunted Chocolatier is not a direct sequel to Stardew Valley and will have its distinct identity. While some connections to the previous game exist, the depth of these ties remains undecided.

Multiplayer Absence

Unlike its predecessor, Haunted Chocolatier will be strictly single-player, with no current plans for multiplayer support.

Platform Availability

The game is confirmed for Windows PC, with potential for release on other platforms with similar system requirements as Stardew Valley. Cross-platform accessibility is anticipated, ensuring players can enjoy the game on various devices.

Stardew Valley encompasses a wide range of platforms, with potential for Haunted Chocolatier to follow suit, offering a seamless transition for existing fans.

Further Updates Await

Stay tuned for more news on Haunted Chocolatier, as the community eagerly anticipates new developments. In the meantime, enjoy a snippet of Barone’s boss fight soundtrack, “bee_boss.ogg,” promising an engaging and immersive experience.