At the end of the year, Stardew Valley fans received a nice gift from ConcernedApe. Without warning, the developer launched the new version of the game on Nintendo Switch 2 on December 25. Priced at $14.99 on the eShop, it is nevertheless completely free for those who already own the game on the first Switch. Simply download the upgrade pack to enjoy the new features.
This surprise launch confirms the loyalty strategy put in place around this cult title, which was recently crowned the highest rated game on the entire Steam platform, even surpassing Portal 2 after fourteen years of reign.
What’s new in Stardew Valley on Switch 2?
This optimized version is not limited to simple graphical adjustments. It introduces several concrete innovations that improve the user experience. Among the major additions, we find a online multiplayer mode supporting up to eight players, as well as a split-screen cooperative mode for four players.
Another notable novelty: the mouse commandsdesigned for smoother navigation in the menus, but also to offer an alternative to traditional console controls.
ConcernedApe has also included compatibility with the feature GameShare : four friends can now play together, even if only one of them owns the game. A real plus for sharing cooperative sessions during the holidays.
An expected release, but without a confirmed date until today
The community had known for several months that a major Stardew Valley update was in the works, but no official date had been announced. A fall release had been mentioned, without ever being confirmed by the studio. This discreet launch, in the middle of Christmas Day, therefore took everyone by surprise.
ConcernedApe chose not to massively publicize the announcement, preferring to rely on the effect of surprise to please its community. Fans were quick to react on social networks and Discord servers, unanimously welcoming the generosity of the independent developer.
Why this version deserves your attention (even if you already have the game)
If you already play Stardew Valley on the first Switch, this free update is well worth the detour. It not only replaces what already exists, it complements it by opening up new possibilities for shared play. This is the perfect opportunity to restart a multiplayer game or to discover new gaming comfort tools.
Mouse controls notably make farm management much more intuitive, especially for new players unfamiliar with classic console controls. As for online features, they completely transform the way we approach the seasons, harvests and events in the city.
Stardew Valley, still at the top of the rankings
This launch on Switch 2 caps off an exceptional year for Stardew Valley. Last July, the game broke a record on Steam by dethroning Portal 2 from the rank of highest rated game on the platform. A remarkable performance for an independent title initially launched in 2016, proof that its charm still operates among millions of players.
With this optimized version, the game continues its rise, this time on the new Nintendo console. Accessible, cooperative, cheap, and now updated for free: Stardew Valley confirms that it has lost none of its magic.