Stardew Valley

Stardew Valley is a 2016 farm life simulation game developed entirely by Eric "ConcernedApe" Barone. Players inherit a run-down farm in Pelican Town and must restore it to prosperity. The game blends farming, mining, fishing, foraging, and combat with deep social simulation and a heartwarming story about community and escape from corporate drudgery.

Barone spent five years building the game solo, drawing inspiration from the Harvest Moon series while addressing its shortcomings. He composed the soundtrack, created all pixel art, and wrote every line of dialogue. British publisher Chucklefish joined midway, allowing Barone to work full-time. The game launched on Windows in February 2016 and later expanded to consoles, mobile, and more, with all major updates released for free.

Critics praised its depth, charm, and endless possibilities. It won the Breakthrough Award at the Golden Joystick Awards and was nominated for Best Game at the BAFTA Games Awards. By 2026, it sold over 50 million copies, revitalizing the farming sim genre and inspiring a wave of similar indie titles. Its active modding community and official board game adaptation further extend its legacy.[edit]

Players clear land, plant seasonal crops, and raise livestock on a customizable farm. Five core skills (Farming, Foraging, Fishing, Mining, Combat) each have 10 levels unlocking recipes and abilities. Mining takes you through a 120-floor procedurally generated cave filled with monsters and ores. Fishing is a timed minigame with over 70 species. Social features let you befriend 30+ villagers, marry one of 12 candidates, and have children. Festivals, a community center restoration quest, and museum artifact collection add variety. The 1.3 update introduced online co-op for up to four players, with shared farm buildings but separate inventories.[edit]

The player character, bored with their desk job at Joja Corporation, receives a letter from their deceased grandfather bequeathing his old farm in Stardew Valley. They leave the city and arrive in Pelican Town, meeting Mayor Lewis and the locals. The central conflict involves either restoring the town's Community Center by completing bundles for the mystical Junimos or siding with JojaMart to rebuild it through cash payments. Subplots include helping villagers with personal troubles, uncovering the Wizard's secrets, and exploring Ginger Island (added in 1.5). There is no fixed ending; players can farm indefinitely.[edit]