The developer of the popular simulation game Stardew Valley on Steam has already engaged in several collaborations with other games. Now he reveals that he hasn’t made any money from it so far. Fans are shocked, but the developer reassures them.
What does the developer say? The developer Eric Barone, better known as ConcernedApe, has created one of the most famous simulation games with a loyal fanbase with Stardew Valley. After a collaboration with Terraria and Balatro, a new action is set to take place with another game: A collaboration with Infinity Nikki, starting on September 1, 2025.
ConcernedApe reported with a message on X, in which he shocked his player base. What they did not expect is that the developer has not made any money from the previous collaborations, nor with Infinity Nikki. But he doesn’t find that so bad and writes reassuringly: “That’s okay, I don’t want to make money from a collaboration.” (Source: X)
Here you can see the trailer for ConcernedApe’s Stardew Valley:
His fans want him to get the money he deserves, but the developer does not take it too seriously
How do the players react to this information? In the comments under his post, fans of the game express shock that the developer does not charge any money for the collaborations.
@BonCinnabunny writes, “It’s a bit sad that you don’t benefit from it, but I’m so glad about the Stardew collaborations and the game in general” and also @ThornVTdragon thinks: “King, you deserve the money??? Get your cash, you earned it multiple times.”
But ConcernedApe simply replies: “Thank you, but it’s okay, I’ve made enough from the sale of the game.”
Why does ConcernedApe even engage in collaborations? In his original post, the developer names the real reason why he entered into collaborations with Terraria, Balatro, and now also Infinity Nikki, even though he no longer needs money.
The explanation is quite simple: “I only did them because I was a fan of the other games or because I really thought they would appeal to the players.” (Source: X)
The community celebrates the developer’s mindset, even though they would like him to earn some revenue:
- @neekorianna: “You still deserve what you earn. <3 I hope you get at least something from future collaborations! I think the players would love to support you too.”
- @Sidkidh: “If there were more people like you, things might not be so bad.”
- @ChefNightshade: “You truly deserve this! You’ve helped so many of us by developing this game. You’ve given us a home, even though we feel so out of place in real life and feel like we don’t belong. Thank you for everything you’ve done and continue to do.”
ConcernedApe has many supporters thanks to Stardew Valley and his attitude towards the value of collaboration, who celebrate this type of mindset. In contrast, the attitude towards another name in the gaming industry, whose resignation generated little sympathy in the community, is different: CEO of Bungie resigns and appoints his successor, but he has already had issues with the fans of Destiny 2
