Stardew Valley developer ConcernedApe – also known as Eric Barone – has recently revealed that his next game project will be titled Haunted Chocolatier, a brand new sim that captures the spirit of past projects. This comes following an announcement that Barone would be focusing on this game going forward, as well as an earlier announcement of two new projects being in the works. While it has not been confirmed if this work is a sequel to the original Stardew Valley, the similarities are still very noteworthy, as seen in the trailer showing early gameplay footage.
“Why chocolate? I’m not sure. It just kind of came to me. I think sometimes the best ideas just appear in a flash, instead of being cleverly thought out. That’s how I like to work, anyway. What’s important is the execution. And after 10 years of practice, I feel more confident than ever in being able to bring an idea to life. Regardless, I think a lot of people like chocolate”, Barone outlined in a blog post on the game’s website.
The Stardew Valley developer further outlined the differences between this title and the original Stardew Valley, primarily in its focus. While Stardew Valley was much more “humble,” in its approach to its world, namely through the simulation of having to live off the land, grow your own food and connect with the people and nature you come into contact with, Barone wished to explore “more fantastical possibilities” with Haunted Chocotatlier. He further struck a comparison to the sun (Stardew Valley) and the moon (Haunted Chocolatier).
The primary gameplay will seem to involve gathering ingredients to make various kinds of chocolate, and running a chocolate shop. In a similar vein to Stardew Valley, you will have to explore and survey the land to progress, only you will be taking on the role of a merchant rather than a farmer, and have to face a variety of enemies and obstacles to keep your business running.
No release date has been confirmed as of yet, though more details regarding the features for the Stardew Valley developer’s new game are expected to be revealed soon.
