After years of eager anticipation, Stardew Valley creator Eric “ConcernedApe” Barone has unveiled that the game’s massive 1.6 update will arrive on PC on March 19th, 2024 – coinciding with the acclaimed farm sim’s 8th anniversary. Console and mobile versions will launch as soon as possible afterwards.
Announced initially in mid-2022 as a “mostly modding-focused” update, 1.6 has ballooned over time into what will be the biggest infusion of new content since the game’s full release. Barone has been grinding away at this volunteer labor of love over the past months, teasing out tidbits of what fans can expect.
The update is now confirmed to include 3 new in-game festivals, over 100 fresh lines of villager dialogue, new crafting recipes, a new beach farm layout, new “late game content” expanding all skill areas, 8-player co-op on PC, and yes – even hats for the player’s pets. It represents a dramatic overhaul for the 2022 indie darling.
ConcernedApe Details Major Additions for Long-Awaited Update
It's the 8th anniversary of Stardew Valley. Thank you for all the support over the years! Today I am announcing the PC Release date for the 1.6 update: –March 19th–. Console & Mobile will follow as soon as possible. pic.twitter.com/dMEFydjSqC
— ConcernedApe (@ConcernedApe) February 26, 2024
Barone reflected warmly on Stardew’s eighth anniversary milestone, with over 30 million copies sold across all platforms and no signs of slowing down. As well as the incoming update, the game is also getting an official cookbook, worldwide orchestral tour, and collaborative board game.
With Stardew still thriving after all this time, ConcernedApe reiterated his intent to resume full focus on the next major project – enigmatic magical chocolate factory sim Haunted Chocolatier – as soon as version 1.6 is out the door. But for now, it’s crunch time as he puts the finishing touches on what looks to be the most significant Stardew Valley update yet.
The full patch notes likely hold even more surprises and quality of life tweaks in store when 1.6 launches in just a few weeks. For now, the tireless ConcernedApe has given fans a highly anticipated release date to begin the countdown towards Stardew’s exciting new era.
