# ConcernedApe LLC

> video game developer, sole proprietorship of Eric Barone

**Wikidata**: [Q137650268](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q137650268)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/concernedape-llc

## Summary
ConcernedApe LLC is a sole proprietorship video game development studio founded and operated by Eric Barone, best known for creating the critically acclaimed indie farming simulation game *Stardew Valley*. Established in 2016, the company is based in Seattle, Washington, and serves as both a developer and publisher under Barone’s creative direction.

## Key Facts
- **Legal Structure**: ConcernedApe LLC is a sole proprietorship owned and operated by Eric Barone.
- **Founding Date**: Incorporated on March 14, 2016, in Washington State (USA).
- **Headquarters**: Located in Seattle, Washington.
- **Industry**: Video game development and publishing.
- **Notable Works**: Developer of *Stardew Valley* (2016) and *Haunted Chocolatier* (upcoming).
- **Aliases**: Known as ConcernedApe, Eric Barone, or Concerned Ape.
- **Business Classification**: Video game developer, video game publisher, and sole proprietorship.
- **Identifiers**:
  - OpenCorporates ID: `us_wa/603596964`
  - RAWG Developer ID: `concernedape`
  - Steam Curator ID: `32938395`
  - MobyGames Company ID: `30690`
  - GameFAQs Company ID: `188967`
  - IGDB Company ID: `concernedape`
  - Nintendo Life Company ID: `concernedape`
  - VideoGameGeek Company ID: `31908`
  - BoardGameGeek Publisher ID: `31908`
  - PC Games Database Company ID: `1921`

## FAQs

**Who owns ConcernedApe LLC?**
ConcernedApe LLC is a sole proprietorship entirely owned and operated by Eric Barone, who is also the primary developer behind its games.

**What games has ConcernedApe LLC developed?**
The studio is best known for *Stardew Valley* (2016), an indie farming simulation RPG, and is currently developing *Haunted Chocolatier*.

**Where is ConcernedApe LLC based?**
The company is headquartered in Seattle, Washington, USA.

**Is ConcernedApe LLC the same as Eric Barone?**
Yes, ConcernedApe LLC is a sole proprietorship, meaning it is legally and operationally identical to Eric Barone, who uses the alias "ConcernedApe" for his work.

**What type of business is ConcernedApe LLC?**
It is classified as a sole proprietorship, video game developer, and video game publisher.

## Why It Matters
ConcernedApe LLC represents the success of independent game development, proving that a single creator can produce a globally influential title like *Stardew Valley*. The studio’s work has redefined the farming simulation genre, blending relaxation, storytelling, and community engagement in a way that resonates with millions of players. By maintaining full creative control, Eric Barone has set a benchmark for indie developers, demonstrating the viability of small-scale, passion-driven projects in an industry often dominated by large corporations.

## Notable For
- Developing *Stardew Valley*, one of the most successful and beloved indie games of all time.
- Operating as a one-person studio that handles all aspects of game development, from programming to art and music.
- Pioneering a hybrid genre of farming simulation and RPG elements, inspiring numerous subsequent games.
- Maintaining a direct relationship with players through transparent development updates and community engagement.
- Expanding into publishing with *Haunted Chocolatier*, further diversifying its creative output.

## Body

### **History and Formation**
ConcernedApe LLC was formally incorporated on **March 14, 2016**, in Washington State, USA, as a sole proprietorship under Eric Barone. The company was established following the release of *Stardew Valley*, which Barone developed over four years as a solo project. The legal formation of ConcernedApe LLC provided a structured framework for Barone’s ongoing work in game development and publishing.

### **Business Structure and Operations**
- **Legal Form**: Sole proprietorship, meaning Eric Barone is the sole owner and operator.
- **Headquarters**: Seattle, Washington, serving as the primary location for development and business operations.
- **Industry Role**: Functions as both a **video game developer** and **publisher**, with Barone handling all creative and technical aspects of production.

### **Notable Works**
#### *Stardew Valley* (2016)
- A **farming simulation RPG** that became a cultural phenomenon, praised for its depth, charm, and player freedom.
- Developed entirely by Eric Barone, including programming, art, music, and design.
- Released on **February 26, 2016**, initially for PC, with subsequent ports to consoles and mobile platforms.
- Sold millions of copies worldwide, establishing ConcernedApe LLC as a major name in indie gaming.

#### *Haunted Chocolatier* (Upcoming)
- A new game in development, announced as a **fantasy-themed simulation game** with a focus on chocolate-making and adventure.
- Continues Barone’s tradition of solo development, though with expanded scope and new mechanics.

### **Industry Identifiers and Presence**
ConcernedApe LLC is recognized across multiple gaming databases and platforms, including:
- **OpenCorporates**: `us_wa/603596964` (Washington State registration)
- **RAWG**: Developer and publisher ID `concernedape`
- **Steam**: Curator ID `32938395`
- **MobyGames**: Company ID `30690`
- **GameFAQs**: Company ID `188967`
- **IGDB**: Company ID `concernedape`
- **VideoGameGeek**: Company ID `31908`
- **BoardGameGeek**: Publisher ID `31908` (reflecting cross-medium recognition)

### **Community and Influence**
- **Player Engagement**: Barone maintains an active presence on social media and forums, directly interacting with fans and gathering feedback.
- **Indie Development Inspiration**: *Stardew Valley*’s success has inspired countless indie developers to pursue solo projects, proving that small teams can achieve massive impact.
- **Cultural Impact**: The game is frequently cited in discussions about mental health, relaxation, and escapism in gaming, broadening its appeal beyond traditional audiences.

### **Future Directions**
With *Haunted Chocolatier* in development, ConcernedApe LLC continues to explore new genres while retaining the handcrafted quality that defined *Stardew Valley*. The studio’s commitment to solo development and player-driven design ensures its ongoing relevance in the indie gaming landscape.

## References

1. OpenCorporates