Summary
Stardew Valleyproved to be a big hit when it released in 2016, coming from the mind of just one solo developer, but being packed with engaging content and addictive gameplay loop. It would have been enough to let players get to grips with the systems and mechanics available on release, butConcernedApe has taken several extra stepsby providing frequent and substantial updates to keep longtime fans engaged with new additions, and ensuring that the price tag is more worth it than ever for first-time players.
The updates forStardew Valleyhave often implemented big new components like language translations, Ginger Island, and an entire multiplayer mode. It’s the gift that keeps on giving, and while the new 1.6 version has plenty of new features, it is also heavy on quality-of-life changes. This could be the start of a trend forStardew Valley, as the future points to something new for the developer, and there has to be a limit as to just how much more can be done to make the 2016 title better than it currently is.
Stardew Valley’s 1.6 Update is a Lot of Little Improvements
Update 1.6 forStardew Valleyreleased on March 19, and included a new farm type, fresh festivals, and up to eight players in multiplayer. It’s a big improvement on an already great game, and follows a long line of stellar updates. However, its list of smaller improvements shouldn’t be overlooked, with big chests being available for more storage, tent kits for players who can’t get home in time, the ability to put hats on cats and dogs, and new dynamic NPC dialogue. There are dozens more that all come together to make a big difference and this, alongside the fixes included in 1.6, can make it feel like a new game again.
Haunted Chocolatier is the Future for ConcernedApe
Stardew Valleycatapulted Eric ‘ConcernedApe’ Barone into the gaming mainstream, and went a long way to showing that creativity, ingenuity, and innovation can be found in the independent space. Fans responded by playing the game for years on end, but there was always a lingering feeling among many about what’s next, and how the developer would follow up his magnum opus. Some answers were given in October 2021 whenHaunted Chocolatierwas announced. Like its predecessor, it’s largely being worked on by just one person, so it will likely require ConcernedApe’s full attention moving forward.
In April 2023, Eric ‘ConcernedApe’ Barone announced he had halted production ofHaunted Chocolatierto work onStardew Valley’s 1.6 update.
Being dedicated toHaunted Chocolatierwhile still providingbig new content updates forStardew Valleywould be a tough task. As the latter has been supported for over eight years, it might be a wise time to pull back on the big additions, and exclusively work on bug fixes and quality-of-life improvements to ensure the workload isn’t too strenuous. That could free up ConcernedApe to focus on the next game.
Stardew Valley is a Complete Product in 2024
Every game that has as much stopping power asStardew Valleywill need updates to keep it looking its best, but after eight years, it’s clear thatConcernedApe’s effortshave paid off. It feels like a complete product, and any additions in the future would only be cherries on top of its already massive legacy. To provide substantial updates in the months and years to come feels like it could be a mismanagement of time and resources, especially now thatHaunted Chocolatieris on the horizon.
There has to be a limit as to just how much more can be done to make the 2016 title better than it currently is.
It’s wise to reach a point where quality-of-life improvements are the focus.Stardew Valleycan take up hundreds of hoursfor players trying to see all the sights, and while more sights can always be added, there comes a point where it feels futile to attempt to improve upon something so close to perfect.
Stardew Valley
WHERE TO PLAY
You’ve inherited your grandfather’s old farm plot in Stardew Valley. Armed with hand-me-down tools and a few coins, you set out to begin your new life. Can you learn to live off the land and turn these overgrown fields into a thriving home? It won’t be easy. Ever since Joja Corporation came to town, the old ways of life have all but disappeared. The community center, once the town’s most vibrant hub of activity, now lies in shambles. But the valley seems full of opportunity. With a little dedication, you might just be the one to restore Stardew Valley to greatness!
