Although Haunted Chocolatier is still in the early stages of development, there’s already a palpable buzz surrounding this upcoming title from indie developer ConcernedApe. Known for the beloved Stardew Valley, ConcernedApe is once again stepping into the spotlight, but players shouldn’t think this is mere repetition. Unlike the farming simulation of its predecessor, Haunted Chocolatier ventures into the action-adventure RPG genre, featuring intense combat alongside a fascinating blend of simulation elements. These simulation aspects come into play as you’re tasked with managing a confectionery, adding a unique twist to the usual RPG format.
While it doesn’t slot neatly into the simulation genre, Haunted Chocolatier doesn’t wholly dismiss its roots. Drawing inspiration — and possibly some gameplay mechanics — from Stardew Valley is almost inevitable, considering both games spring from the same creative mind. Early images and a gameplay trailer reveal that Haunted Chocolatier shares Stardew Valley’s charming art style. Also noteworthy is the inclusion of NPCs, some of whom might be eligible for player romance, much like the popular feature from Stardew. This mechanic alone draws considerable interest and curiosity about how these characters will interact within Haunted Chocolatier’s new world.
Pelican Town in Stardew Valley serves as the game’s heart, the bustling locale where players interact with NPCs, trade goods, and engage in various activities. While the main farm is central, Stardew Valley also nudges players toward other areas like Ginger Island. However, when most people think of Stardew Valley, Pelican Town is what comes to mind, embodying the game’s spirit. With ConcernedApe’s ambition to make Haunted Chocolatier even grander, it’s reasonable to speculate that its equivalent of Pelican Town may expand, perhaps introducing more than one focal town to explore.
Two primary locations within Haunted Chocolatier could offer intriguing possibilities. Although this would extend development time, it could seamlessly fit the narrative scope. Alongside fighting spectral foes, managing a chocolate business remains the gameplay’s core. Transporting goods between two towns introduces opportunities for unexpected encounters and combat scenarios.
Adding a second town doesn’t just diversify the map; it enriches the gameplay by making certain ingredients unique to each area, sparking creativity in concocting chocolates with new flavors and recipes. Moreover, this could mirror Stardew’s approach with Ginger Island, providing places with distinct personalities, seasonal sweets preferences, and a trove of NPCs, each with their own quirks and possibly romantic paths. Rivalries between towns could infuse tension and depth into the storyline, reinforcing the RPG elements around which Haunted Chocolatier is built.
While the main settlement in Haunted Chocolatier remains unnamed, and more details from ConcernedApe are yet forthcoming, it’s captivating to muse about how this game will evolve from Stardew Valley’s legacy. Whether expanding on locations or introducing new gameplay dynamics, there’s ample room for creativity and innovation.
