In 2016, game developer ConcernedApe took matters in its own hands and released the simulation role-playing game that it felt Harvest Moon wasn’t fully delivering. The story ofStardew Valley’s success in the time since is well known. As of 2020,Stardew Valleyhad sold more than 10 million copies and was available to play across all major platforms. Now thatStardew Valleyis over five years old, however, it seems ConcernedApe is almost ready to share what comes next.
On Saturday,Stardew Valleycreator Eric Barone, AKA ConcernedApe, helped to host theinaugural Stardew Valley Cup. It was an esports contest held for the topStardew Valleyplayers in the world, challenging teams of four to complete as many tasks from a list of over 100. It was, truly, a celebration ofStardew Valleyand its community. It’s only fitting that Barone took the opportunity to talk about what he was working on next.
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According to Barone, he’s working on something completely new. Barone was only willing to share a few specific details about this new game, starting will tellingStardew Valleyfans that he “may announce it fairly soon.” As forBarone’s new gameitself, it’s going to be another top-down pixel game similar in perspective toStardew Valley. However, Barone makes clear that it isn’t a farming game at all. BeforeStardew Valleyfans start to worry, Barone does say that the new game is still “kind of similar toStardew Valley.”
The only other hint that Barone shares with fans is tied to another upcoming game. Barone addressed a rumor that he was involved with the gameWitchbrookfrom developer Chucklefish, which played a major part in publishing duties and releasingStardew Valleyin different languages. Barone first distances himself from Chucklefish’s project, saying he has nothing to do with it. He then adds that his next game isn’t a “magic school game” likeWitchbrook, either.
The news that Barone will potentially be ready to share more information about his next game is quite exciting, but it also comes with a sad confirmation. Barone is not working on a newStardew Valleyupdate,nor is he working onStardew Valley 2.Stardew Valleyhas reached its end state so that ConcernedApe’s second game can be completed.
It’s a bittersweet moment forStardew Valleyfans, and likely for Barone himself.Stardew Valleyis still incredibly popular and successful, but it’s also an opportunity to look forward to what comes next. IfStardew Valley’s unique comfort and kindnessare any indication, fans can trust that Barone’s next game will still be fulfilling even if it doesn’t involve farming.
Stardew Valleyis available now on PC, PS4, PS Vita, Switch, Xbox One, and mobile devices.
