Long awaited: While Stardew Valley’s last major update (version 1.6) hit PC earlier this year, mobile and console users won’t get it until November. Explaining the discrepancy, the game’s sole developer admitted that it treats PC users as beta testers due to the differences between the various platforms.
The mobile and console versions of Stardew Valley haven’t received a major update since 2021. The long wait ends on November 4, but the game’s creator confirmed that those platforms will probably never enjoy launch parity with the PC.
Version 1.6, the latest major patch, hit PC in March and added dialogue, a new farm type, an end-game skill system, several other minor additions, a new festival, and other events. pushed Steam player count hits all-time high of over 236,000.
I’ve always launched on PC first, because it’s a sort of “beta test” to make sure there aren’t any critical bugs (e.g. ones that destroy saves), which are a much bigger problem on consoles because they can’t be fixed as quickly. However, I never intended for the delay to be so long.
– ConcernedApe (@ConcernedApe) September 22, 2024
Unfortunately, work on the patch for other platforms has been hit with significant delays. Creator Eric “ConcernedApe” Barone, who has been developing Stardew Valley almost single-handedly since 2012, admitted that the port is taking longer than usual and requiring more work than anticipated. While he has repeatedly apologized to fans, he acknowledged that the situation has affected the progress of his upcoming game, Haunted Chocolatier.
Still, Barone confirmed that he typically releases Stardew Valley updates on PC first. He treats PC patches like betas because major bugs (like progress-wiping bugs) take longer to fix on other platforms.
The delay is likely due to the fact that mobile and console updates must pass each platform’s certification process, while Barone can upload PC patches immediately after finishing them. In fact, the PC version has received multiple minor fixes and gameplay additions since version 1.6. The November update for other platforms will coincide with version 1.6.9 for PC.
Fortunately, those who have already purchased Stardew Valley on any platform don’t have to worry about paying for new content. Earlier this year, Barone swore never charging for DLC or any other updates, asking observers to screenshot the statement for posterity.
The promise stands in stark contrast to games from larger publishers that charge for microtransactions, expansions and subscriptions. Still, Stardew Valley’s likely unique financial situation likely gives Barone some wiggle room. There aren’t many games created almost entirely by a single person that have sold 30 million copies.
Dwarf Fortress is an interesting comparison. Bay 12 Games distributed the hardcore simulation game as freeware for 16 years until a health scare in 2019 Driven The group released an alternative commercial version. Almost immediately, it grossed millions of dollars in sales.
