Haunted Chocolatier: Key Details About the Creator of Stardew Valley’s Upcoming Game

Haunted Chocolatier is the latest creation from Eric Barone, also known as ConcernedApe, the mastermind behind Stardew Valley. Since its announcement in 2021, it has quickly become a highly anticipated title among cozy gaming enthusiasts. Although the release date is still a mystery, Barone has been actively sharing updates and intriguing details about the game’s development.

Currently, Barone is also focused on the Stardew Valley 1.7 update, but rest assured, work on Haunted Chocolatier is progressing. Below, you’ll find the latest news, platform information, and insights from a recent interview where Barone discussed the game. For example, he mentioned exploring chocolate alternatives and implementing a daily limit on how many chocolates players can consume while managing their shop.

As of now, there’s no confirmed release date for Haunted Chocolatier, and it seems we might be waiting a while. In an FAQ from 2021, Barone stated, “I can’t commit to a release date yet,” emphasizing that the game is still “relatively early in development.” He expressed a desire to work without the pressure of a deadline, stating, “I won’t rest or release this game until I am personally satisfied that it’s very fun and compelling in every aspect.”

During a 2025 appearance on a podcast, Barone mentioned that while he can’t guarantee a release by 2030, that is the goal, adding that “there’s still lots to be done.” So, while 2030 seems like a hopeful target, it could take longer, so keep an eye out for updates.

Regarding platforms, the FAQ confirms that PC is the only confirmed platform for release, but there are plans to bring it to other major consoles. If it follows the path of Stardew Valley, we can expect it to eventually land on Xbox Series X, PS5, and Nintendo Switch, with a possibility of a mobile version as well.

There will also be a Stardew Valley 1.6 update, primarily aimed at modders, but it will include some new game content, albeit less than the previous update. Barone is currently taking a break from Haunted Chocolatier to focus on this update, but he has indicated that he has made significant progress on the new game.

Haunted Chocolatier is described as another “town game” similar to Stardew Valley, where players move to a new town and experience a different lifestyle. Players will interact with townspeople, build relationships, and make progress in various ways. However, this new adventure leans more towards an action-RPG compared to the farming sim roots of Stardew Valley, while still retaining elements of a life simulation. Barone has noted that Haunted Chocolatier carries a more “dark and mysterious” atmosphere.

Currently, there are no details on multiplayer features, but updates will be provided as they become available. The gameplay trailer released in 2021 gives a glimpse of the game’s early stages, showcasing combat, interactions, and the town setting, complete with some ghostly characters.

In his initial blog post, Barone shared insights into the gameplay, highlighting the core loop of gathering ingredients, crafting chocolate, and running a chocolate shop. He aims to explore fantastical elements and experiences that go beyond the ordinary, contrasting the delightful nature of chocolate with the allure of the unknown represented by the haunted castle.

Barone has also mentioned that there will be multiple methods for making chocolate, allowing players to choose between more intuitive or conventional approaches. The world of Haunted Chocolatier is set to be larger than that of Stardew Valley, promising a more expansive environment to explore.

Recent updates have provided more details on combat, which plays a more significant role than in Stardew Valley. Players will have access to various weapons, including shields for blocking attacks, which can stun enemies and create openings for counterattacks. Barone noted that this shield/stun mechanic rewards patient players, but aggressive playstyles are also viable.

While everything shown so far is still in development and subject to change, the direction of combat looks promising. A recent tweet even teased a screenshot of a formidable bee enemy, hinting at potential boss battles in the game.

For those interested in life simulation games, there are plenty of other titles to explore, and a list of upcoming PC games is also available for those looking forward to new releases this year.