Though ConcernedApe may be the developer behind both games,Haunted ChocolatierandStardew Valleyare 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 aboutHaunted Chocolatier’s gameplay, but based on ConcernedApe’s statements about the in-development title, it’s clear that it will be unique and distinct fromStardew Valley.
SomeStardew Valleyplayers may be more apprehensive about tryingHaunted Chocolatierthan 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 anddifferences betweenStardew ValleyandHaunted Chocolatieris important forStardew Valleyplayers that feel apprehensive about diving into ConcernedApe’s next title.
Stardew Valley and Haunted Chocolatier’s Similarities and Differences
Stardew Valley and Haunted Chocolatier’s Similarities
The first reveal ofHaunted Chocolatiercame from ConcernedApe back in October 2021. ConcernedApe then released anupdate on the developing game in December 2024after taking a break from working on the title while he focused onStardew Valley’s 1.6 update. With only two major updates onHaunted Chocolatierto draw information from, reading between the lines is very important.
The most obvious similarity betweenHaunted ChocolatierandStardew Valleyis 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, severalHaunted Chocolatierfeatures immediately callback toStardew Valley. Like its predecessor,Haunted Chocolatierwill have an often-visited town setting, its own unique NPCs, and other character interactions. NPC interactions are one of the best aspects ofStardew Valley, so it’s unsurprising that ConcernedApe decided to continue this part of gameplay inHaunted Chocolatier.
Again, likeStardew Valley,Haunted Chocolatier’s confectioneries will have its own cozy simulation game aspects. According to ConcernedApe, the large majority ofHaunted Chocolatier’s gameplay focuses on“gathering ingredients, making chocolate, and running a chocolate shop.”
Stardew Valley and Haunted Chocolatier Differences
ButHaunted Chocolatieris not simply a simulation game. In fact,Haunted Chocolatierapparently 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 fromStardew Valley’s developer. But these gameplay features noticeably alignwith the “Chocolatier” inHaunted Chocolatier. The “Haunted” part of the title brings out the game’s action RPG gameplay features.
UnlikeStardew Valley,Haunted Chocolatierwill have a heavy combat focus. Weapons, shields, and stunning mechanics are all integral to combatingHaunted 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 thatStardew ValleyandHaunted Chocolatierfall essentially into two entirely different genres.
Haunted Chocolatier’s Differences Will Be Good For its Identity
This may not seem like good news toStardew Valleyfans, but it certainly is. Rather thanrepackagingStardew Valleyinto aWilly Wonka-esque game,Stardew Valleyplayers interested inHaunted Chocolatierwill get to expand into a different genre of gameplay.
While combat is present inStardew Valley, players can avoid combat if they wish. It seems thatHaunted Chocolatierwill not give players this choice. Additionally, ConcernedApe’s pivot in genre givesHaunted Chocolatierthe opportunity to develop its own identity. Rather than being a chocolate-themed version ofStardew Valley,Haunted Chocolatiercan give ConcernedApe the chance to experimentwith new gameplay that might not be compatible withStardew Valley.
The difference in genre between both games also eliminates competition between the two titles. Rather thanhaving to choose betweenStardew ValleyandHaunted Chocolatier, players can purchase both games with the knowledge that they will have unique experiences with both titles. Until more updates forHaunted Chocolatierare released,Stardew Valleyplayers will have plenty of time with their, at present, favorite ConcernedApe title.
