Stardew Valley’s 1.6.9 update may be good news for fans hoping to hear more about its upcoming sister game,Haunted Chocolatier. It’s been a long time since any major news aboutHaunted Chocolatierhas surfaced, but withStardew Valleypossibly in the rearview mirror for now, more attention can be given to ConcernedApe’s future projects.

The original release ofStardew Valley1.6 hit PCs this past March, but console and mobile players have only just gained access to the new content. After months of additional development and bug fixes, the widespread release ofStardew Valley1.6.9 finally met players on November 4. Fans who play on mobile and consoles have been eager to jump into the new content that PC players have already had access to for some time, but that’s not all the good news that the update brings. ConcernedApe, solo developer ofStardew Valley, has mentioned in the past that after this update toStardew Valley, he planned to shift his workload back toHaunted Chocolatier. Though nothing has been mentioned yet, some are hopeful that in the coming months ConcernedApe might let fans know how that development is progressing.

Stardew Valley Tag Page Cover Art

Why it Took So Long for Stardew Valley Update 1.6 to Hit Consoles

Fans are rejoicing at the arrival of the newest widespread update forStardew Valleyfor a number of reasons, the largest of which being the lengthy development time between the PC and console release dates. Players haven’t been shy about making their feelings known in regard to how long it took for the update to reach beyond PC players, even contacting ConcernedApe via social media to share their disappointment. In response, he explained that he understands their feelings, butConcernedApe defended his PC-first mentalitybecause it’s easier to rapidly fix bugs on that platform rather than mobile devices or consoles. Thankfully, they wouldn’t have to wait too much longer.

With 1.6 Completed, Haunted Chocolatier Takes the Spotlight

No matter how fans feel about the timeframe of the update’s release, one thing most agree on is that ConcernedApe is committed to his games and their fans. What can be gleaned from his actions is that all thenew content and features inStardew Valley’s 1.6.9update were important to him because he believed they would create a better experience for the game’s fans. If he remains committed this way toHaunted Chocolatier, it is certain to become exactly the type of follow-up that players want, now that the developer has more time to devote to the project.

Those looking forward toHaunted Chocolatierhave long been wondering what progress has been made on the game, especially since any development news has been hard to come by. Understanding now how much work went into theStardew Valleyupdate, it seems that the reason may be thatHaunted Chocolatierhad been taking a back seat. But now that ConcernedApe has more time to pour into his latest creation, hopefully more news is on the horizon. Unfortunately, he missed a great opportunity to share news about his spooky game during spooky season, but if ConcernedApe is ready to reveal the next step soon,there may still beHaunted Chocolatierupdates by the end of 2024. Nothing has specifically confirmed that news will surface, but it would be an excellent way for ConcernedApe to show fans his devotion to this new project.

“ConcernedApe, solo developer ofStardew Valley, has mentioned in the past that after this update toStardew Valley, he planned to shift his workload back toHaunted Chocolatier.”

Haunted Chocolatier’s Long Development is a Blessing in Disguise

The gaming community has become used to long development cycles and the push-back of release dates. Perhaps this is the reason that ConcernedApe never announced a set release window forHaunted Chocolatier, instead ending the announcements with “in development.” Though players never like learning that the games they’re looking forward to will take quite some time,Haunted Chocolatier’s long development may be a good thing.

The recent boom in life sim titles has given fans of the genre plenty of games to spend their time with, causing the community to split its attention among several worthy experiences. IfHaunted Chocolatierwere to be released in this boom, it may have suffered from the mountain of competitors. But by releasing after the attention to these newer games has died down, it placesHaunted Chocolatierin the perfect position to gain a large player base looking fortheir next favorite life sim title. So, while some fans may have been annoyed at the lengthy development cycle ofStardew Valley’s latest update, it may just be the best possible outcome forHaunted Chocolatier’s success.

Stardew Valley

WHERE TO PLAY

You’ve inherited your grandfather’s old farm plot in Stardew Valley. Armed with hand-me-down tools and a few coins, you set out to begin your new life. Can you learn to live off the land and turn these overgrown fields into a thriving home? It won’t be easy. Ever since Joja Corporation came to town, the old ways of life have all but disappeared. The community center, once the town’s most vibrant hub of activity, now lies in shambles. But the valley seems full of opportunity. With a little dedication, you might just be the one to restore Stardew Valley to greatness!