Though ConcernedApe may be the developer behind both games, Haunted Chocolatier and Stardew Valley are distinctly different from one another. While both games may fall into the simulation genre, there are some distinct differences between the two indie games. Little information has been released about Haunted Chocolatier’s gameplay, but based on ConcernedApe’s statements about the in-development title, it’s clear that it will be unique and distinct from Stardew Valley.
Some Stardew Valley players may be more apprehensive about trying Haunted Chocolatier than others. Just because a game comes from the same studio, developer, or creator, does not mean that the game will be as high quality as other games by that same creative team. Therefore, distinguishing the known similarities and differences between Stardew Valley and Haunted Chocolatier is important for Stardew Valley players that feel apprehensive about diving into ConcernedApe’s next title.
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Stardew Valley and Haunted Chocolatier’s Similarities and Differences
Stardew Valley and Haunted Chocolatier’s Similarities
The first reveal of Haunted Chocolatier came from ConcernedApe back in October 2021. ConcernedApe then released an update on the developing game in December 2024 after taking a break from working on the title while he focused on Stardew Valley’s 1.6 update. With only two major updates on Haunted Chocolatier to draw information from, reading between the lines is very important.
The most obvious similarity between Haunted Chocolatier and Stardew Valley is their shared 2D pixelated art style. Images for the in-development game were released in that initial October 2021 announcement alongside a gameplay trailer. In this gameplay trailer, several Haunted Chocolatier features immediately callback to Stardew Valley. Like its predecessor, Haunted Chocolatier will have an often-visited town setting, its own unique NPCs, and other character interactions. NPC interactions are one of the best aspects of Stardew Valley, so it’s unsurprising that ConcernedApe decided to continue this part of gameplay in Haunted Chocolatier.
Again, like Stardew Valley, Haunted Chocolatier’s confectioneries will have its own cozy simulation game aspects. According to ConcernedApe, the large majority of Haunted Chocolatier’s gameplay focuses on “gathering ingredients, making chocolate, and running a chocolate shop.”
Stardew Valley and Haunted Chocolatier Differences
But Haunted Chocolatier is not simply a simulation game. In fact, Haunted Chocolatier apparently is closer in genre to an action RPG. Gathering ingredients, making chocolate, and running a chocolate shop are aspects of gameplay that most would expect from a chocolate-themed game from Stardew Valley’s developer. But these gameplay features noticeably align with the “Chocolatier” in Haunted Chocolatier. The “Haunted” part of the title brings out the game’s action RPG gameplay features.
Unlike Stardew Valley, Haunted Chocolatier will have a heavy combat focus. Weapons, shields, and stunning mechanics are all integral to combating Haunted Chocolatier’s ghosts. ConcernedApe has even revealed images of some foes players will face, including a giant bee. With combat seemingly a major part of the game, it’s clear that Stardew Valley and Haunted Chocolatier fall essentially into two entirely different genres.
Haunted Chocolatier’s Differences Will Be Good For its Identity
This may not seem like good news to Stardew Valley fans, but it certainly is. Rather than repackaging Stardew Valley into a Willy Wonka-esque game, Stardew Valley players interested in Haunted Chocolatier will get to expand into a different genre of gameplay.
While combat is present in Stardew Valley, players can avoid combat if they wish. It seems that Haunted Chocolatier will not give players this choice. Additionally, ConcernedApe’s pivot in genre gives Haunted Chocolatier the opportunity to develop its own identity. Rather than being a chocolate-themed version of Stardew Valley, Haunted Chocolatier can give ConcernedApe the chance to experiment with new gameplay that might not be compatible with Stardew Valley.
The difference in genre between both games also eliminates competition between the two titles. Rather than having to choose between Stardew Valley and Haunted Chocolatier, players can purchase both games with the knowledge that they will have unique experiences with both titles. Until more updates for Haunted Chocolatier are released, Stardew Valley players will have plenty of time with their, at present, favorite ConcernedApe title.
Haunted Chocolatier
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