A new novel has emerged, drawing significant inspiration from the beloved indie game Stardew Valley and its solo developer, Eric “ConcernedApe” Barone. Launched in 2016, Stardew Valley revolutionized not only the farming simulation genre but also the indie gaming landscape, establishing itself as one of the finest indie games of the modern era.
The game’s influence has extended beyond gaming, prompting recognition in various creative fields. ConcernedApe’s journey began with Stardew Valley as a solo endeavor, where he meticulously crafted every aspect, including the artwork, music, and programming.
The game has garnered widespread acclaim, earning its place as one of the highest-rated titles on Steam. Recently, a nod to this remarkable achievement was noted in the credits of a new novel, showcasing the impact of Stardew Valley on contemporary storytelling.
A Reddit user named ItsaMehMorning shared their exciting find on the Stardew Valley subreddit, highlighting the acknowledgment of ConcernedApe’s work. The novel, titled “As It Was” by Elle Rivers, mentions how the author was inspired to write after immersing themselves in the “small town” environment that Stardew Valley brilliantly portrays.
The credits even encourage readers to experience the game themselves, expressing gratitude towards ConcernedApe for his creation. The success of Stardew Valley has undoubtedly influenced the resurgence of farming sim games, with many indie developers putting their unique spins on the formula.
Titles like Fae Farm and Roots of Pacha showcase innovations within the genre while established companies like Square-Enix and Capcom have also tapped into farming elements. Looking ahead, fans can expect new developments from ConcernedApe, including the potential of a Stardew Valley sequel and the ongoing project, Haunted Chocolatier.
Though the latter may not release until around 2030, the charm of Stardew Valley will likely continue to inspire creators and audiences alike for years to come.