After enchanting millions with Stardew Valley, indie developer Eric “ConcernedApe” Barone is hard at work on his next highly anticipated title: Haunted Chocolatier. This upcoming game promises to blend cozy vibes with a mysterious twist, offering a new take on the life-sim genre—but this time, with chocolate and ghosts.
While Haunted Chocolatier was officially revealed in October 2021, details have been scarce. However, Barone has periodically shared updates that give us a better idea of what to expect. Here’s everything we know so far, plus some insight into when we might finally get our hands on it.
The current estimate is that we can see the game sometime in 2026 but nothing has been made official just yet.
https://www.hauntedchocolatier.net
A Sweet but Spooky New World
Haunted Chocolatier puts players in charge of a chocolate shop, but it’s not your average small business simulator. Set in a whimsical, haunted town, the game invites players to gather rare ingredients (some sourced from dangerous realms), craft decadent chocolate creations, and sell them to curious customers—all while interacting with quirky townsfolk and even friendly ghosts.
Unlike Stardew Valley, which was grounded in farming and rural life, Haunted Chocolatier leans heavily into magical and supernatural themes. Barone has said the game will explore “positive, uplifting, and life-affirming” ideas but through the lens of fantasy and mystery. The town itself acts almost like a living character, full of secrets and stories waiting to unfold.
Familiar Charm with Fresh Mechanics
Although Haunted Chocolatier shares a similar 2D pixel art aesthetic to Stardew Valley, Barone has made it clear this is a very different game under the hood. He built Haunted Chocolatier from scratch with a brand-new codebase. While Stardew Valley focused on building a farm and relationships, Haunted Chocolatier introduces deeper action-RPG elements. Expect to wield swords and shields, explore dangerous realms, and engage in real-time combat reminiscent of classic Zelda titles.
Barone has hinted at more advanced gameplay systems as well, including enhanced crafting and shopkeeping mechanics that go beyond simple item selling. Players will need to strategize about what chocolates to make, source rare ingredients, and manage their shop to attract different types of customers.
A Deeply Personal Project
Barone has emphasized that Haunted Chocolatier is a deeply personal project for him. “It’s an expression of me and what I want to create right now,” he said in a 2021 blog post. Unlike Stardew Valley, which was inspired by games like Harvest Moon, this new project reflects Barone’s love for fantasy, adventure, and the supernatural.
He’s also taken a more narrative-driven approach with Haunted Chocolatier. The characters are designed to be more complex, with richer backstories and deeper relationship dynamics than we saw in Stardew Valley. Fans can look forward to a cast of memorable personalities, including ghostly companions and eccentric townspeople.
What About the Release Date?
As of early 2025, there’s still no confirmed release date for Haunted Chocolatier. Initially, there was hope that it might launch in 2025. However, with Barone heavily involved in the Stardew Valley 1.6 update—released in March 2024—and his commitment to a one-man development process, it’s likely that Haunted Chocolatier won’t be released until 2026 or later.
For context, Stardew Valley took Barone over four and a half years to develop, and that was before the game’s wild success catapulted him into the public eye and brought additional demands on his time. Despite that, Barone has made it clear he doesn’t want to rush development. “I’m not going to release it until I’m happy with it,” he said during a recent interview on Twitch.
What Platforms Will It Release On?
Barone hasn’t officially confirmed which platforms Haunted Chocolatier will release on. However, based on Stardew Valley’s history, it’s likely to launch first on PC, followed by releases on consoles like Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, and Xbox. There’s also a possibility of a mobile release down the line, although that may take longer.
Why Fans Are So Excited
The excitement surrounding Haunted Chocolatier isn’t just because of its unique premise. Eric Barone’s reputation for delivering thoughtful, deeply engaging experiences has built enormous goodwill among players. Stardew Valley has sold over 30 million copies and continues to receive major updates nearly a decade after its launch—an unheard-of level of post-launch support for an indie title.
Fans expect Haunted Chocolatier to carry the same charm, attention to detail, and heart that made Stardew Valley a modern classic. Add in the new combat mechanics, magical setting, and chocolate-making twist, and it’s easy to see why this is one of the most anticipated indie games on the horizon.
Final Thoughts
While Haunted Chocolatier is still shrouded in mystery, everything we’ve seen so far suggests it will be a worthy successor to Stardew Valley. It blends cozy shopkeeping with action-packed adventure, all wrapped in a charmingly spooky world. And knowing Barone’s track record, it’ll be worth the wait.
For now, fans can continue enjoying Stardew Valley’s latest updates while keeping an eye out for more sneak peeks of Haunted Chocolatier in the months ahead.
Key Takeaways
- Haunted Chocolatier combines chocolate shop management with ghost interactions and combat
- The game features entirely new code and mechanics compared to Stardew Valley
- ConcernedApe has created a unique world with distinct themes and characters
Development and Background
Haunted Chocolatier marks ConcernedApe’s next game after Stardew Valley. Eric Barone, the creator, brings his unique vision to this new project while balancing ongoing work on Stardew Valley.
Concept and Vision
Haunted Chocolatier builds on Barone’s signature pixel art style. The game centers around running a chocolate shop in a haunted castle. Players will gather ingredients, make chocolate, and manage their store.
Ghost helpers add a supernatural twist to the gameplay. Barone aims to create a more whimsical and fantastical experience compared to Stardew Valley’s farming focus.
The game will likely include relationship-building and town exploration elements. Combat may play a larger role than in Stardew Valley.
From Stardew Valley to Haunted Chocolatier
Stardew Valley’s success allowed Barone to pursue Haunted Chocolatier. He announced the new game in October 2021, surprising fans.
Development has progressed slowly due to Barone’s continued work on Stardew Valley updates. The 1.6 patch for Stardew Valley temporarily paused Haunted Chocolatier’s progress.
Barone resumed work on Haunted Chocolatier in late 2023. He shared new screenshots, showing environments and characters.
No release date has been set. Barone prefers to take his time to ensure quality.
Role of Creator Eric Barone
Barone, known as ConcernedApe, is the sole developer of Haunted Chocolatier. He handles programming, art, music, and design himself.
This solo approach allows for a cohesive vision but can extend development time. Barone’s perfectionism and attention to detail shine through in his work.
He values player feedback and community engagement. Barone often shares updates on social media and his blog.
The creator balances his time between Stardew Valley support and Haunted Chocolatier development. His dedication to both projects showcases his commitment to his games and fanbase.
Game Mechanics and Features
Haunted Chocolatier combines chocolate-making with exploration and combat. Players will craft confections, gather ingredients, and battle creatures in a unique ghost-filled world.
Gameplay and Objectives
Players take on the role of a chocolatier in a haunted castle. The main goal is to run a successful chocolate shop. This involves crafting various chocolate treats, managing inventory, and satisfying customers.
The game features a day-night cycle. During the day, players focus on shop management and chocolate production. At night, they can explore the surrounding areas to gather ingredients and materials.
Character customization allows players to personalize their chocolatier. As the game progresses, new recipes and shop upgrades become available.
Combat Systems
Combat in Haunted Chocolatier uses a real-time system. Players wield weapons and shields to fight off creatures and ghosts.
Different weapon types offer varied attack styles:
- Swords for close-range combat
- Bows for ranged attacks
- Magic wands for elemental damage
Shields provide defense against enemy attacks. Players can dodge, block, and counter-attack.
The combat areas include forests, caves, and otherworldly dimensions. Defeating enemies rewards players with rare ingredients and crafting materials.
Chocolate Crafting
The heart of Haunted Chocolatier lies in its chocolate-making system. Players use a crafting table to create various chocolate treats.
Key aspects of chocolate crafting:
- Mixing ingredients in specific ratios
- Tempering chocolate for the right texture
- Adding flavors and fillings
- Shaping chocolates into different forms
Quality of ingredients affects the final product. Rare ingredients can create special chocolates with unique effects.
Players can experiment with recipes to discover new combinations. Successful creations can be sold in the shop or gifted to NPCs.
Exploration and Ingredient Gathering
Exploration plays a crucial role in Haunted Chocolatier. Players venture out to find rare ingredients and materials.
Gathering methods include:
- Foraging in forests and fields
- Mining in caves
- Fishing in rivers and lakes
- Trading with NPCs
Each area has its own set of ingredients. Some are seasonal, encouraging players to explore at different times of the year.
Special events and quests can lead to unique gathering opportunities. Players may need to solve puzzles or overcome obstacles to reach certain ingredients.
The game world is filled with secrets and hidden areas. Exploration rewards players with new recipes, rare items, and story elements.
Visuals and Technical Aspects
Haunted Chocolatier’s visual style and technical elements combine pixel art aesthetics with modern gameplay features. The game’s graphics and trailers offer a glimpse into its unique atmosphere and mechanics.
Pixel Art Design
Haunted Chocolatier features charming pixel art reminiscent of Stardew Valley, but with a darker, more magical twist. The game’s visuals capture the essence of a haunted, whimsical world. Detailed environments showcase cozy interiors, spooky exteriors, and fantastical elements.
Character designs blend cute and eerie aesthetics. The pixel art style allows for expressive animations and atmospheric lighting effects. This artistic choice creates a nostalgic feel while allowing for creative freedom in depicting the game’s supernatural themes.
Game Trailers and Screenshots
Gameplay trailers for Haunted Chocolatier reveal key features and mechanics. These videos showcase chocolate-making processes, ghost interactions, and exploration elements. The trailers highlight the game’s day-night cycle and changing weather effects.
Screenshots provide a closer look at the game’s user interface and inventory systems. They display various locations players can visit, from the chocolate shop to mysterious caves. These images also showcase character customization options and different types of ghosts players can encounter.
The vertical slice demo, if released, would offer a more comprehensive look at the game’s systems and gameplay loop. It would demonstrate how different elements like chocolate-making, ghost interactions, and exploration come together in the final product.
Availability and Platforms
Haunted Chocolatier, the upcoming game from Stardew Valley creator ConcernedApe, will launch on PC first. Plans for other platforms are in the works, though specific release dates remain unconfirmed.
Supported Platforms
PC is the primary platform for Haunted Chocolatier’s initial release. ConcernedApe has expressed intentions to bring the game to major consoles. These likely include:
- Nintendo Switch
- PlayStation 4/5
- Xbox One/Series X|S
The exact timeline for console releases is not yet announced. ConcernedApe’s approach mirrors the Stardew Valley launch strategy, which saw a PC release followed by console versions.
Cross-platform play has not been confirmed. The game is currently planned as a single-player experience, similar to Stardew Valley’s initial release.
Early Access and Pre-Orders
ConcernedApe has not announced plans for Early Access or pre-orders. The developer typically keeps details close until near release. Fans should follow official channels for updates:
- ConcernedApe’s Twitter
- Steam store page
- Official website
Pre-order options may become available closer to launch. Early Access is less likely, given ConcernedApe’s history of releasing complete games. Updates on purchasing options will likely emerge as development progresses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Fans eagerly anticipate Haunted Chocolatier’s release. Key details about the game’s availability, pricing, and platform support remain uncertain.
What is the expected release date for Haunted Chocolatier?
ConcernedApe has not announced an official release date for Haunted Chocolatier. The game is currently in development, and its creator has stated that he wants to take his time to ensure a high-quality product.
Will Haunted Chocolatier be available on Steam upon launch?
No information has been confirmed about Haunted Chocolatier’s distribution platforms. Steam is a popular choice for indie games, but the developer has not specified where the game will be available.
How can one download Haunted Chocolatier?
Download methods for Haunted Chocolatier have not been disclosed. Once released, the game will likely be available through digital storefronts, similar to ConcernedApe’s previous title, Stardew Valley.
What is the anticipated price point for Haunted Chocolatier?
The price for Haunted Chocolatier has not been announced. Pricing may be similar to other indie games in the RPG/simulation genre, but this is speculation until official information is released.
Is Haunted Chocolatier considered a sequel to Stardew Valley?
Haunted Chocolatier is not a sequel to Stardew Valley. It is a new game with its own unique setting and gameplay mechanics, focusing on chocolate-making rather than farming.
Which platforms will support Haunted Chocolatier gameplay?
Specific platforms for Haunted Chocolatier have not been confirmed. The game is being developed for PC, but additional platforms may be announced closer to the release date.
