Eric ‘ConcernedApe’ Barone, the solo developer behind the beloved Stardew Valley, has broken his silence on the long-awaited Haunted Chocolatier with a heartfelt update. As the game approaches the fifth anniversary of its 2021 announcement, Barone took to Steam to thank fans for their patience, apologize for the extended development time, and reassure them that he is still hard at work. The news was reported by GamesRadar.
In the update, Barone emphasized his commitment to quality over speed: “I won’t compromise on the quality of the game by rushing it or releasing it too early. Then all my time would be wasted, anyway.” This message comes as a direct response to growing anticipation, with the last update for the game having arrived in June.
Barone also shared his personal enthusiasm for the project, stating, “I’ve been very productive on this project lately even though I am busy with many things. Working on Haunted Chocolatier is what I’m most eager and driven to do, out of everything.” He added that he already enjoys playing the game in its unfinished state, especially after recent additions, and hopes others will share that enjoyment when it’s ready.
What Barone Said in the New Update
The update, posted on Steam, is a candid look into the developer’s mindset. Barone began by acknowledging the wait: “I’m still here, still making progress,” he wrote, before thanking the fanbase for their understanding. “I do appreciate how understanding you guys are,” he added, noting the supportive community.
Barone’s dedication to the project is clear in his words: “My goal is to make a game that I am proud of and personally enjoy. And I am certain, at this point, that I will enjoy the game when it is finished.” This sentiment underscores his philosophy of prioritizing a polished final product over meeting an arbitrary release window.
Notably, Barone has been more transparent about Haunted Chocolatier‘s development than many other high-profile indie developers, such as those behind Silksong or Little Devil Inside. His regular updates, even if infrequent, have kept the community engaged and informed.
Haunted Chocolatier’s Ambitious Scope
Barone has previously described Haunted Chocolatier as “way bigger than Stardew Valley,” with “everything cranked up.” This ambition may explain the extended development timeline. The game, which casts players as a chocolatier running a haunted shop, promises a richer and more expansive experience than its predecessor, which itself has become one of the most beloved games of all time.
Throughout the development of Haunted Chocolatier, Barone has continued to update Stardew Valley with new content, demonstrating his ongoing commitment to both projects. This dual focus, while admirable, has likely contributed to the slower pace of Haunted Chocolatier‘s development.
What This Means for Fans
For fans eagerly awaiting Haunted Chocolatier, this update is a reassuring sign that the project is alive and progressing. Barone’s refusal to rush the game suggests that when it does release, it will meet the high standards set by his previous work. While no release date has been announced, his words offer a clear message: the wait will be worth it.
As the fifth anniversary of the game’s announcement approaches, this update serves as a timely reminder of the passion and care Barone is pouring into the project. For now, players can take comfort in knowing that Haunted Chocolatier remains a labor of love, and that its creator is determined to deliver something truly special.
