Haunted Chocolatier rivals Stardew Valley in scope

Developer ConcernedApe confirms Haunted Chocolatier's world will be more expansive than Stardew Valley. Here's the latest development update and potential release window.

Haunted Chocolatier Will Feature a Larger World Than Stardew Valley

Development Insights and Release Plans from ConcernedApe

Haunted Chocolatier, the upcoming project from Stardew Valley creator Eric "ConcernedApe" Barone, will feature a more expansive world than his previous hit. Barone confirmed this news in a June 11 post on X (formerly Twitter), though specific size comparisons remain unclear as development continues.

Barone revealed his challenges managing both projects during April 2025's Game Developers Conference interview with PC Gamer. "I remain deeply invested in Stardew Valley's community," he explained. "Ensuring players continue enjoying Stardew sometimes delays my full commitment to Haunted Chocolatier."

Most of 2024 was dedicated to Stardew Valley's comprehensive 1.6 update. With the patch now live across PC and consoles, Barone has shifted focus entirely to his new project. "The 1.6 update is stable now," he noted. "I won't resume Stardew Valley work until Haunted Chocolatier is complete - the game's current state makes me proud of what new players will experience."

Despite this full focus on his new project, Barone told Nintendo Life in January he could potentially work on Stardew Valley indefinitely. Future updates may still come after Haunted Chocolatier's completion, but currently the developer is committed to finishing his chocolate-themed sim.

Expected Release Within Five Years

Originally announced in October 2021 with gameplay footage and a dedicated website, Barone expressed hope for Haunted Chocolatier's release within five years during a May 19 appearance on comedian Bobby Lee's Tiger Belly podcast. When Lee asked about this timeframe, Barone casually responded "I hope so," though clarified existing footage represents polished segments rather than a complete product.

His recent confirmation about the game's expanded scale offers fans new excitement for the project. While initially planned for PC, Barone intends to bring Haunted Chocolatier to additional platforms. For the latest updates on this highly anticipated title, check our ongoing coverage below.