Stardew Valley

Far more than just a farming game, this one-man labor of love is filled with seemingly endless content and heart.

94%Game Brain Score

story, gameplay

grinding, stability

99% User Score Based on 412,691 reviews

Critic Score 88%Based on 24 reviews

Platforms

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About

In Stardew Valley, restore a neglected farm, build relationships with villagers, and explore vast caves for resources. Customize your farmer and farm, and take part in seasonal activities and festivals. With a variety of sustainable activities and multilayered relationships, this peaceful, engaging experience offers endless possibilities for creativity and personal growth.

Genres & Tags

Play Modes

+20

99%

Audience ScoreBased on 412,715 reviews

story6.9k positive mentions

grinding38.4k negative mentions

The game offers a rich variety of activities, allowing players to engage in farming, fishing, mining, and building relationships at their own pace.
Stardew Valley features charming pixel art and a soothing soundtrack that create a cozy and immersive atmosphere, enhancing the overall experience.
The character development and emotional storytelling are praised for their depth, making interactions with NPCs meaningful and rewarding.

Some players find the gameplay loop repetitive and tedious, especially in the early game, which can be unfriendly to new players.
There are reports of bugs, glitches, and performance issues, particularly in multiplayer mode, which can disrupt the overall experience.
While the character development is strong, some players express a desire for more dynamic interactions and growth post-marriage.

grinding
38,838 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
1%
99%
The grinding aspect of "Stardew Valley" has received mixed feedback from players. While many appreciate the depth and variety of activities available—such as farming, fishing, mining, and building relationships—some find the repetitive nature of certain tasks, especially in the early game, to be tedious. Overall, players enjoy the freedom to engage with the game at their own pace, but acknowledge that achieving perfection can lead to a grind-heavy experience.
- “As there is so much to do, it does not get boring and you can always decide on which part of the game you would love to focus (aesthetics, farming, quests).”
- “You fall in love with the characters and their stories, and the gameplay is great, not too grindy in my opinion.”
- “The work isn't grindy at all, in my opinion.”
- “The gameplay loop may seem a little tedious in the beginning, but why would you buy a farming game and not expect the core gameplay loop to be... farming?”
- “The farming and watering crops mechanics are unbelievably dull and repetitive, combined with the energy mechanics which requires you to eat rations every few seconds. It's very unfriendly to new players starting the game, extremely annoying and unenjoyable.”
- “This game is a farming game but 10x better than any typical farming game.”
story
18,512 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
38%
60%
2%
The story in *Stardew Valley* is often described as charming and heartwarming, revolving around the player's journey to restore their grandfather's neglected farm while building relationships with the quirky townsfolk of Pelican Town. Each character has a unique backstory and personality, contributing to a rich tapestry of narratives that players can explore through quests and interactions, making the game feel immersive and engaging. While some players appreciate the depth and emotional resonance of the storylines, others note that the game allows for a more relaxed, sandbox-style experience where the main narrative can be approached at the player's own pace.
- “The plot is in depth and emotional, and the characters have complex personalities.”
- “The story, characters, the lore, fantasy, magic, sci-fi, every aspect of the game is so charming, you will find yourself immersed in it for hours fantasizing as if you were running your farm in real life.”
- “The story is rich and there's so much content; I will never stop playing Stardew Valley.”
- “🔲 this game has no story”
- “The gameplay loop is boring, the story doesn't hook me and the sprites look ugly.”
- “The very first quest is already really annoying.”
gameplay
14,814 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
40%
57%
3%
The gameplay of Stardew Valley is widely praised for its engaging and addictive mechanics, offering a blend of farming, fishing, mining, and social interactions that keep players immersed for hours. While some players find the gameplay loop repetitive, many appreciate the depth and variety it provides, allowing for different playstyles and the freedom to progress at one's own pace. The charming pixel art, soothing soundtrack, and continuous updates from the developer further enhance the overall experience, making it a beloved title in the farming simulation genre.
- “The pixel art is beautiful, the soundtrack is calming, and the gameplay loop is endlessly satisfying.”
- “Every aspect of Stardew Valley, from its gorgeous pixel art to its deeply rewarding gameplay mechanics, comes together to create an experience that is both relaxing and endlessly engaging.”
- “With its charming visuals, engaging gameplay, and heartfelt storytelling, it's a true gem that deserves a place in every gamer's library.”
- “The gameplay loop is boring, the story doesn't hook me and the sprites look ugly.”
- “The farming and watering crops mechanics are unbelievably dull and repetitive, combined with the energy mechanics which require you to eat rations every few seconds (it's very unfriendly to new players starting the game, extremely annoying and unenjoyable).”
- “The fishing mechanic is infuriating but I hop on with my friends and played for 7 hours, so take that as you will.”
music
13,040 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
59%
40%
1%
The music in *Stardew Valley* is widely praised for its soothing and enchanting qualities, enhancing the game's relaxing atmosphere. Players appreciate the diverse soundtrack that changes with the seasons, creating a nostalgic and immersive experience that complements the charming pixel art and engaging gameplay. Many find themselves humming the tunes long after playing, highlighting the soundtrack's memorable impact on their overall enjoyment of the game.
- “The pixel art is beautiful, the soundtrack is calming, and the gameplay loop is endlessly satisfying.”
- “Each season has its own beautifully composed music that perfectly complements the mood—whether it’s the cheerful, upbeat tunes of spring or the soothing, contemplative melodies of winter.”
- “The soundtrack, composed by ConcernedApe himself, perfectly complements the cozy atmosphere, making every moment feel warm and nostalgic.”
- “The music is very repetitive, I always have it off.”
- “If you’re going to make me play 150 hours, I need more than the same 10 farm songs over and over.”
- “The soundtrack is very soothing and the gameplay is calm and all in all, fun.”
graphics
10,758 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
45%
53%
2%
The graphics of *Stardew Valley* are characterized by charming pixel art that evokes nostalgia for classic 16-bit games, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. While some players initially find the retro aesthetic off-putting, many come to appreciate its simplicity and the vibrant, detailed environments that change with the seasons. Overall, the visuals are praised for their warmth and character, contributing significantly to the game's relaxing and immersive experience.
- “The graphics are charming and vibrant with an equally vibrant cast of NPCs!”
- “The changing seasons bring unique aesthetics—cherry blossoms drifting through the air in spring, golden leaves falling in autumn, and cozy, snow-covered rooftops in winter—all of which make the game feel immersive and visually captivating.”
- “At first glance, Stardew Valley’s retro pixel art style might seem simple, but the level of detail in every aspect of the world is astounding.”
- “The graphics are straining for the eyes, the villagers feel empty, and the fishing is tedious, among other things.”
- “Another issue I personally have within the game are the eye-straining graphics & coloring.”
- “The pixel graphics, with their rustic charm, create a cozy atmosphere that's impossible to resist.”
emotional
5,263 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
100%
Stardew Valley is widely praised for its emotional depth and heartwarming storytelling, providing players with a cozy escape from reality. The game's charming characters, each with their own unique backstories, foster genuine emotional connections, making interactions feel meaningful and rewarding. Players often describe their experiences as therapeutic, with the game's wholesome atmosphere and engaging gameplay offering comfort during difficult times.
- “I found this game during a dark time in my life, when I had lost my grandfather, and the game has the same premise. Seeing something so close to my childhood being recreated as a cozy game that is so much more than just a farming sim was so heartwarming, and I got so lost in the game I forgot my grief for a brief moment of time.”
- “Whether you’re working on building relationships through small gestures or engaging in deeper conversations, the bonds you form with the people of Pelican Town give the game a warmth that makes it easy to invest emotionally.”
- “Stardew Valley is a heartwarming blend of simplicity and discovery, where tending crops, raising animals, and exploring the mines offer a soothing rhythm of life.”
- “My main issue with this game is the animations and the really boring storyline.”
- “It is, of course, not perfect as I think a lot of the villagers have boring stories that made me not very interested in befriending them, but I still had a lot of fun playing, and it gave me the love for Harvest Moon-type games back.”
- “I cried.”
replayability
2,637 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
51%
47%
2%
Stardew Valley is widely praised for its exceptional replayability, with players highlighting the game's open-ended nature, diverse farm layouts, and extensive character interactions as key factors that encourage multiple playthroughs. The vibrant modding community further enhances the experience, offering new content and challenges that keep the game fresh and engaging. While some players note a decline in replay value after extensive play, the combination of varied gameplay styles and regular updates ensures that many find themselves returning to the game time and again.
- “The gameplay loop is wonderful and the replayability is one of the best out there.”
- “With multiple farm layouts, different marriage candidates, and endless customization options, Stardew Valley offers nearly infinite replayability.”
- “The music, charming visuals, and meaningful character stories make it endlessly replayable.”
- “Maybe it's got replay value, but much like No Man's Sky, after you get your due out of the 'main course', it's depleted of its worth.”
- “Once you've done everything in this game, it still has a wondrous replay value that brings people back to make new farms, try new relationships, and different paths in the storyline (unless you choose JojaMart, which then you have no heart).”
- “The only downside is that once you've played it, there isn't much replayability and it might become a chore, but you aren't gonna regret buying it for a first playthrough.”
atmosphere
1,926 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
56%
43%
1%
The atmosphere of Stardew Valley is widely praised for its cozy, relaxing, and immersive qualities, enhanced by charming pixel art and a soothing soundtrack. Players appreciate the game's ability to transport them to a peaceful rural setting, where they can engage in farming, fishing, and building relationships with unique characters. The attention to detail in seasonal changes and ambient sounds further enriches the experience, making it a perfect escape from daily stresses.
- “The ambient sounds, from the rustling of leaves to the gentle waves lapping at the shore, create a deeply relaxing atmosphere that makes the world feel even more alive.”
- “The pixel art style is charming and nostalgic, paired with a soothing soundtrack that enhances the cozy and relaxing atmosphere.”
- “The soundtrack, composed by ConcernedApe himself, perfectly complements the cozy atmosphere, making every moment feel warm and nostalgic.”
- “The atmosphere can be quite stressful at times, but the progression is fast and satisfying.”
- “The music is also nice and relaxing, really fitting the game's atmosphere; I've added some tracks to my sleep playlist.”
- “While the gameplay and progression are good, what really makes Stardew stand out is the atmosphere.”
humor
1,716 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
99%
1%
The humor in this game is widely praised for its quirky charm and clever dialogue, often blending light-hearted jokes with deeper emotional themes. Players enjoy the funny interactions with NPCs, the ability to name animals and items humorously, and the amusing scenarios that arise during gameplay, especially in multiplayer settings. Overall, the game is described as a delightful mix of fun, relaxation, and humor, making it a favorite for those seeking both entertainment and a cozy gaming experience.
- “The game was so happy, funny, and relaxing.”
- “It's cozy and has a quirky sense of humor I wish more games had.”
- “The characters are funny and have wonderful arcs.”
- “Insert unfunny meme review”
- “You're not funny!”
- “In this game I made friends, went on dates, and got married to the love of my life. It's fun but unrealistic because I'm an annoying, unfunny loser who looks like a foot with eyes.”
character development
516 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
46%
53%
1%
Character development in the game is widely praised for its depth and emotional resonance, with players appreciating the unique backstories and evolving relationships of the NPCs. Many reviews highlight the charm and individuality of each character, noting that their personal arcs contribute significantly to the overall gameplay experience. However, some players express a desire for even more dynamic interactions and character growth, particularly post-marriage, indicating that while the development is strong, there is room for enhancement.
- “Progression here has always been the best part alongside mind-boggling plots and character developments that'll keep you immersed in such a world where you could either relate or sympathize with.”
- “The character development of the NPCs is interesting and it's a game you can keep playing even after you 'beat' it.”
- “The storytelling and character development is top notch.”
- “Even young adults don't talk like that anymore and some of the character development feels a little anti-climactic or non-existent.”
- “I wish there were more character development past 10 hearts, and after marriage.”
- “Character development stops abruptly when you max your relationship and your spouse will never feel as connected to you as when you were working to that point.”
stability
488 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
16%
2%
82%
The stability of the game has received mixed feedback from users. While many players report a generally smooth experience with minimal bugs, others highlight significant issues, particularly with multiplayer functionality and performance on certain devices like the Steam Deck and Mac. Overall, the developer is praised for actively addressing glitches and bugs, often patching them quickly, but some players still encounter frustrating technical problems that can disrupt gameplay.
- “The game runs great on my M1 MacBook Air with only 8GB RAM.”
- “The greatest thing is how completely bug free the game is.”
- “I have only encountered one crash and no glitches in my 195 hours of playing this game.”
- “Ridiculously buggy.”
- “The game suffers from frequent bugs, glitches, and optimization issues that detract from the overall experience.”
- “The multiplayer is so damn buggy, you get kicked every 15-30 minutes.”
optimization
317 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
39%
53%
8%
The optimization of Stardew Valley is widely praised, with players noting its smooth performance across a variety of devices, including older and less powerful hardware. The game effectively balances casual gameplay with deep optimization challenges, allowing players to engage in both relaxed farming and strategic resource management. While some users reported occasional performance issues on specific platforms, the overall consensus is that the game is well-optimized, making it accessible and enjoyable for a broad audience.
- “It's charming, easy to play but with a lot of room for strategic optimization for those interested in it, and provides a decent amount of variety nestled snugly into a well-designed core gameplay loop.”
- “The game is well-optimized and runs smoothly on various platforms and systems.”
- “Whether you want a relaxing way to unwind, or an engine for hyper-efficient optimization, this game is a great choice!”
- “There aren’t a lot of optimization options for the gameplay, deeply engaging combat, or NPCs with a sort of incredible depth.”
- “The game suffers from frequent bugs, glitches, and optimization issues that detract from the overall experience.”
- “I had no idea what I was doing, I didn't have a guide, my farm was so badly optimized it would make you mad.”
monetization
176 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
16%
46%
38%
The monetization model of this game is highly praised, with users highlighting the absence of microtransactions, in-game purchases, and ads, which is a refreshing change in an industry often criticized for cash grabs. Players appreciate the one-time purchase price and the continuous free updates, emphasizing that the game prioritizes player experience over profit. Overall, the developer's commitment to a fair and enjoyable gaming experience without exploitative monetization practices has garnered significant admiration.
- “The fact that this game is still $15 is beyond me, and there are no in-game purchases.”
- “The amount of content packed into this game is unreal, and there is no DLC or microtransactions of any kind, which is far too rare these days.”
- “The market is too saturated with cash grabs and soulless content.”
- “In a world where monetization is often prioritized over player experience, Stardew Valley reminds us that games can be made with love and care, and that’s why it’s become a timeless classic.”
- “The effort, dedication, and love poured into this game can, in my opinion, put certain AAA titles to shame, and that without DLC content, without addons, season passes, and in-game purchases.”

88%Critics’ scoreBased on 27 critic reviews

Buy Stardew Valley

77h Median play time

171h Average play time

53h Main story

164h Completionist

21-236h Spent by most gamers

*Based on 2,553 analyzed playthroughs

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