Haunted Chocolatier is one of the most highly-anticipated games at the moment. Among the likes of unreleased heavy-hitters, like GTA 6 and The Elder Scrolls 6, Haunted Chocolatier serves as a humble indie title that many gamers are eagerly awaiting. The idea behind Haunted Chocolatier is simple, but incredibly charming.
In Haunted Chocolatier, players will take on the role of a candy maker who also happens to live in a haunted castle. Part candy-making simulator, part exploration-based adventure, Haunted Chocolatier promises a cozy game that features some fun spooky elements. Unfortunately, according to solo developer Eric Barone, it may be a while before Haunted Chocolatier is ready. On the bright side, though, there are several titles that could be great options to pass the time before Haunted Chocolatier launches.
Haunted Chocolatier May Play an Opposite Role to Stardew Valley Among Cozy Sims
Stardew Valley paved the way for a cozy sim renaissance, but Haunted Chocolatier finds itself in a completely new landscape.
Games to Play While Waiting for Haunted Chocolatier
Stardew Valley
This is the obvious option to tie players over, but it's also one of the strongest choices, as it's bound to feel incredibly similar to Haunted Chocolatier. Stardew Valley was Eric Barone's first game, and the indie darling continues to be a hit. Haunted Chocolatier is bound to have some differences compared to its predecessor, but based on early footage, the aesthetic and general energy of Stardew Valley is still very much intact. Over the years, Stardew Valley has been filled with content through developer-supported updates and fan-made mods, giving players plenty of ways to keep their experience fresh. Since its launch, Stardew Valley has been one of the most influential indie games of its generation, and it set the stage for Haunted Chocolatier to become a reality.
Stardew Valley has sold over 41 million copies.
Strange Horticulture
For those who are particularly interested in Haunted Chocolatier's blend of coziness and the paranormal, Strange Horticulture might be a great option to find that balance. In this indie title, players take on the role of the Horticulturist. As the owner of the local plant shop, interacting with a unique cast of characters teaches players about the world one lives in, as a compelling occult mystery begins to unravel throughout the story. It's a laid-back experience that could be a strong choice for those in the mood for something dark that isn't necessarily horror.
Cult of the Lamb
Cult of the Lamb may not be a life sim, but this charming roguelike leans heavily into the cuteness that Stardew Valley and Haunted Chocolatier boast. The goal of Cult of the Lamb is to build one's cult with followers in order to become the one true religion of the forest. It's a hilarious cartoonish take on dark subject matter that can scratch the spooky itch that the absence of Haunted Chocolatier leaves.
Cozy Grove
Keeping in theme with the paranormal, Cozy Grove blends a haunted forest setting with the life sim genre. As a Spirit Scout, Cozy Grove players become friends with ghosts and maintain the forest. Its gameplay loop is similar to Animal Crossing, but the unique premise behind Cozy Grove makes it an easy-going life sim that holds a deep well of charm.
Dredge
Dredge is a fishing life sim with a dark twist. Like Haunted Chocolatier, Dredge requires players to maintain their own business, except this game deals with the life of a fisherman instead of a chocolate maker. However, Dredge goes a step further and introduces an array of fascinating sea monsters that give the game a fun horror edge. Upgrading one's boat and navigating unknown waters makes Dredge a little more sweat-inducing at times, but for those who enjoy the management mechanics of Stardew Valley and love adorably dark worlds, the fishing sim could be a strong Haunted Chocolatier appetizer.
- Developer(s)
- ConcernedApe
- Publisher(s)
- ConcernedApe
- Engine
- MonoGame
WHERE TO PLAY
- Genre(s)
- Adventure, Simulation
