ConcernedApe, the solo developer behind the hit game Stardew Valley, has treated fans to a tasty morsel of information about his upcoming game, Haunted Chocolatier. Recently, he shared new work-in-progress screenshots and reassured the community that the game is still very much in development.
The update comes as welcome news to fans who have been eagerly anticipating more details about the chocolate-themed adventure since its announcement in 2021. In a new blog post, ConcernedApe explained that progress on Haunted Chocolatier had slowed due to his focus on the recent Stardew Valley 1.6 update. However, he emphasized his ongoing commitment to the new project.
The screenshots revealed tantalizing glimpses of the game’s pixel art style, showcasing environments that blend cozy chocolate shop aesthetics with a spooky, haunted atmosphere. Fans were quick to praise the visuals, noting the beautiful and detailed artwork that has become a hallmark of ConcernedApe’s games.
One of the key points of discussion among fans was ConcernedApe’s decision to continue working solo on Haunted Chocolatier. This approach, while potentially extending the development timeline, aligns with his preference for maintaining complete creative control over his projects. Many fans expressed support for this decision, valuing the unique vision and quality that comes from his solo development style.
The game itself is shaping up to be an intriguing blend of simulation and action RPG elements. Unlike Stardew Valley’s focus on farming, Haunted Chocolatier will put players in charge of running a chocolate shop while also emphasizing combat and exploration. This shift in gameplay focus has drawn comparisons to games like Rune Factory, exciting fans who are eager to see ConcernedApe’s take on these mechanics.
Community reactions to the update have been overwhelmingly positive, with many fans expressing patience and understanding regarding the game’s development pace. The transparency and occasional updates from ConcernedApe have helped maintain enthusiasm for the project, even without a set release date.
