Stardew Valley Developer Denies Rumors of Leaving Haunted Chocolatier
ConcernedApe’s Development Pipeline: Stardew Valley and Haunted Chocolatier
Table of Contents
- ConcernedApe’s Development Pipeline: Stardew Valley and Haunted Chocolatier
- Progress on Haunted Chocolatier
- Relationship Between Stardew Valley and Haunted Chocolatier
- ConcernedApe’s Development Pipeline: *Haunted Chocolatier* and *Stardew Valley*
- Projected Release Timeline
- Continued Support for *Stardew Valley*
- Future Development Plans
Eric Barone, known as ConcernedApe, is currently developing “Haunted Chocolatier,” a new game described as an “evil chocolate shop simulator” and a ”farm sim in reverse.” Barone shared an update on January 28, 2026, via his official website,detailing his progress on the game.
Progress on Haunted Chocolatier
Barone explained that he is still actively working on Haunted Chocolatier,focusing on both the core gameplay and various aspects of the game. He stated, “I’m still working like always on the game. I want to keep working on it until it feels right. I can’t really give a date, but I’m happy with how it’s going.” He also noted that Haunted Chocolatier is intended to be “a much more focused experience.”
Relationship Between Stardew Valley and Haunted Chocolatier
The developer clarified the relationship between Haunted Chocolatier and his previous success, Stardew valley. He explained that while both games share similarities, they are distinct projects. “Stardew Valley and Haunted Chocolatier are very different games,” Barone said. “I don’t want peopel to go into Haunted Chocolatier expecting another Stardew Valley.” He emphasized that Stardew Valley is a relaxing, long-term game, while Haunted Chocolatier aims for a more focused and potentially faster-paced experience. A gameplay trailer for Haunted Chocolatier was released, and can be viewed here.
Future Development Timeline
Barone indicated a potential release timeframe, stating, “In 2025, I’ll start getting serious about getting the game ready for release.” He added, “The goal is to release Haunted Chocolatier in 2030.” He also acknowledged the need for further refinement,stating,”I have a lot of work to do,and I want to make sure it’s good before I release it.”
As of January 30, 2026, the planned release date for Haunted Chocolatier remains 2030, with ongoing development focused on refining the gameplay experience.
ConcernedApe’s Development Pipeline: *Haunted Chocolatier* and *Stardew Valley*
Developer ConcernedApe is currently working on a new game,Haunted Chocolatier,following the success of Stardew Valley. According to an update posted on January 28, 2026, the developer describes Haunted Chocolatier as an “evil monster-raising sim” and states, “this is a different kind of game.”
Projected Release Timeline
ConcernedApe indicated a projected release timeframe for Haunted Chocolatier, aiming for a 2030 launch.However, the developer clarified that this is subject to change, stating in a January 2026 blog post: “In 2025 I’ll start seriously working towards a release. Hopefully, it’ll happen in 2030.” The developer also emphasized that Stardew Valley and Haunted Chocolatier are distinct projects, and that progress on one does not necessarily impact the other.
Continued Support for *Stardew Valley*
Despite focusing on Haunted Chocolatier, concernedape continues to support Stardew Valley. As of January 2026, the developer released update 1.7, which included significant changes to the game’s content.IGN Middle East reported on the update, detailing new gameplay features and quality-of-life improvements.
Future Development Plans
ConcernedApe plans to continue supporting Stardew Valley long-term, while concurrently developing Haunted Chocolatier.The developer stated, “I’m still working on Stardew Valley, and I’ll keep working on it. I don’t want to stop. I’m excited to explore new ideas and features for both games.”