Haunted Chocolatier Matches Stardew Valley's Scale

Developer ConcernedApe has confirmed Haunted Chocolatier will surpass Stardew Valley in world size. Discover the latest development updates and potential release window for this highly anticipated title.

Haunted Chocolatier Will Feature Expanded Game World

Latest Development Insights From ConcernedApe

Eric "ConcernedApe" Barone, creator of Stardew Valley, recently shared exciting news about his upcoming project Haunted Chocolatier. In a June 11 Twitter (X) post, Barone revealed the new game's world will be larger than Stardew Valley's.

While specific size comparisons remain undisclosed, development appears to be progressing well. During April 2025's Game Developers Conference, Barone discussed with PC Gamer the challenges of balancing both projects.

"Stardew Valley remains close to my heart," Barone acknowledged. "My dedication to maintaining its quality sometimes slows Haunted Chocolatier's development. After completing the major 1.6 update for Stardew Valley across all platforms, I'm now fully focused on the new project."

Barone added: "With the 1.6 update stable across platforms, I've committed to concentrating exclusively on Haunted Chocolatier. Stardew Valley is in an excellent state that I'm proud of, allowing me to shift my full attention to this new creative endeavor."

Despite this focus shift, Barone told Nintendo Life in January that he could continue working on Stardew Valley indefinitely. Future updates may still come after Haunted Chocolatier's completion, but for now, the chocolatier simulation remains his priority.

Target Release Within Five Years

Originally announced in October 2021 with gameplay footage and an official website, Haunted Chocolatier's release window remains flexible. During a May 19 appearance on comedian Bobby Lee's Tiger Belly podcast, Barone expressed hope for a launch within five years when questioned.

The developer clarified that existing trailers showcase polished segments rather than representing finished product status. Currently in development for PC with plans for multiplatform release, fans can expect more updates as development continues.