Despite the range of indie games confirmed to be coming to the Nintendo Switch 2, the lack of an update from developer ConcernedApe seems like a missed opportunity, especially when games likeStardew ValleyandHaunted Chocolatiercould be perfect for Nintendo’s next console. Even though the latest Nintendo Direct focused on the newest features, hardware, and launch titles for the Switch 2, it also included significant announcements for several indie games, likeDeltarune,Enter the Gungeon 2, and evenHollow Knight: Silksong. Yet, missing from this list was confirmation ofStardew Valleyfor the Switch 2 or a potential update forHaunted Chocolatier.
Though this may not be surprising, considering that Eric “ConcernedApe,” unlike most indie developers, is only a one-man team, it still seems like Nintendo has overlooked games that could have been ideal for the Switch 2. Given that the recent Direct alsoemphasized the Switch 2’s new social features, such as its Camera, Game Chat, and GameShare, Nintendo should have at least endeavored to bringStardew Valleyto the Switch 2. But while it’s more than likely thatStardew Valleyand evenHaunted Chocolatierwill eventually be released on the Switch 2, an update confirming this could have benefited both ConcernedApe and fans of its games.
Stardew Valley and Haunted Chocolatier Belong On The Switch 2
As one of the best-selling and highly acclaimed indie games,Stardew Valleyis arguably the perfect game for Nintendo and its ongoing commitment to social and family-friendly gaming. However, there’s a certain irony whenStory of Seasons: Grand Bazaarhas been confirmed for the Switch 2 but notStardew Valley, given thatHarvest Moonwas a key inspiration behind the indie game. But there’s also a sense of shortsightedness sinceStardew Valleyis already available on the Switch, yet despite Nintendo’s claims that some Switch games will receive free online updates for the Switch 2,Stardew Valleyis not among them.
Beyond its potentialbackwards compatibility as a Switch game,Stardew Valleycould have capitalized on the latest social features with the Switch 2. For example, the improved design and mouse functionality of the new Joy-Cons 2 could offer PC-like controls for players, and its GameChat and Camera peripherals could enhanceStardew Valley’s existing multiplayer mode for a more immersive experience. Even ifStardew Valleyisn’t among the list of Switch games to receive all-new Switch 2 Editions likeSoS: Grand Bazaar, an enhanced version of the indie farming sim could have incentivized players to upgrade to the new console.
Confirming Stardew Valley For The Switch 2 Could Have Helped Haunted Chocolatier
However, confirmingStardew Valleyfor the Switch 2 could have helped reaffirm the uncertain status of ConcernedApe’s other game,Haunted Chocolatier. In recent blog posts, Barone has been candid about favoring thedevelopment ofStardew ValleyoverHaunted Chocolatier, but he has claimed that the game hasn’t been shelved just yet. Therefore, while a major update about ConcernedApe’s next game wouldn’t have been possible for the Switch 2’s Direct, confirmingStardew Valleyfor the Switch 2 and then teasing Haunted Chocolatier alongside it, akin to IO Interactive’sHitman: World of AssassinationandProject 007reveals, could have reassured players hoping for news.
After Hollow Knight: Silksong’s Switch 2 Announcement, Haunted Chocolatier Needs An Update
In addition to this, the lack of any Switch 2 updates forStardew ValleyorHaunted Chocolatierespecially can be felt more keenly in contrast withSilksong’s surprise appearance during the recent Direct. As another indie game that appeared stuck in development limbo following its original 2019 announcement, theconfirmation ofSilksong’s long-awaited launchlater this year could putHaunted Chocolatierin a difficult position if its own development takes even longer. While the challenges of being a solo developer should be acknowledged,Silksong’s Switch 2 update still highlights the ground ConcernedApe needs to cover betweenStardew ValleyandHaunted Chocolatieron the Switch 2.
