Despite the fact that we know few details about Haunted Chocolatierit has been made clear that ConcernedApe's next game will have a much stronger focus on combat than Stardew Valley. This is one way in which Haunted Chocolatier can stand out from its massively successful predecessor, which is a sign of good things to come for the upcoming title.
In recent years, life simulation games have become known for a handful of features. Activities like farming, romancing NPCs, and exploring are all par for the course, and this is largely due to their importance in Stardew Valley. ConcernedApe's first game was a surprise hit and revolutionized the genre, a feat it could do again in Haunted Chocolatier. The game's supposed emphasis on combat is perhaps the biggest difference between the two games. Because of this difference, Haunted Chocolatierhis fight could be good for Stardew Valley as well as ConcernedApe experimenting with new ideas, giving it an outlet for mechanics that wouldn't feel at home in its previous title.
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The Haunted Chocolatier faces a tightrope walk unlike Stardew Valley
According to ConcernedApe, Haunted Chocolatier will have a different tone than Stardew Valley, which could mean an interesting confluence of ideas.
Haunted Chocolatier's Combat can make this an outstanding indie game
Life simulators aren't exactly known for their robust combat mechanics. As the genre has evolved, there have been a few games that have branched out into exploration, requiring players to protect themselves along the way, but most keep all combat segments very basic. Usually, these types of games prefer to depict an idyllic and relaxing lifestyle.
That's why Haunted Chocolatier going all in on the combat mechanics will set it apart from any life simulation that will come before it. It can even be used Stardew Valleyhis combat system to help him grow, taking what worked in the past and improving it to reach new levels in the future. Because the simulation side of things has been so developed Stardew Valleyno need to reinvent the wheel in that area, allowing ConcernedApe to shoot for a “best of both worlds” approach in Haunted Chocolatier.
Various combat mechanics can help Haunted Chocolatier and Concerned Ape grow
Exactly what type of battle can he be featured in Haunted Chocolatier is yet to be seen. A few development teasers have shown which swords will return from Stardew Valleyand that a shield mechanic is in the works to go with them, but a true combat focus requires more combat modes than just what players are used to. Maybe Haunted Chocolatier it can be inspired by other games such as peeping Dark souls' parade mechanic to improve swordplay. Other fantasy titles like Skyrim it also features a variety of different fighting styles that ConcernedApe could look to for inspiration.
In addition to the sword and shield, another mainstay of fantasy combat is the bow and arrow. Stardew Valley presented a sling, which can find its way into Haunted Chocolatier also, but ConcernedApe shouldn't stop there. Using a bow could lead to more varied ranged combat Haunted Chocolatieras well as other innovations. It has been hinted that players will need to scavenge for ingredients to make their chocolate, which could mean having to send animals that are also interested in natural resources. Using a slingshot or bow could be a good way to make distant noise and scare them away or even set a trap to catch them off guard.
Stardew Valleyits magical elements also open the door for Haunted Chocolatier to incorporate a bit of magic. If players aren't into weapons, magic could present a third option. A magical combat system could do Haunted Chocolatier stand out even more. Spells could be used for damage purposes, such as a lightning strike, or even to aid in exploration, such as freezing a lake to gain access to the other side. A spellbook mechanic could also prevent abilities from breaking the game by limiting the use of spells. ConcernedApe has room for countless new innovations in Haunted Chocolatierand the fight is hopefully just the beginning. With its reputation for working hard to deliver outstanding experiences for its players, there's no telling what fans can expect in Haunted Chocolatier.