Summary
- Developer Barone listens to fan feedback but ultimately trusts his own intuition when deciding on updates for Stardew Valley.
- Fans may be surprised to learn that fan requests aren't the main factor in update decisions - Barone adds what he feels is missing.
- Barone's track record of success with Stardew Valley shows that he knows how to keep fans engaged with the game's evolution.
In a recent interview, Stardew Valley developer Eric "ConcernedApe" Barone spoke about how he decides what makes it into the game's updates. The reveal is something fans of Stardew Valley who frequently make requests may want to keep in mind.
Stardew Valley is an extremely popular game due to the devotion of the game's developer. The initial base game was very well-received and quickly became an indie darling, but the long-term evolution of the game has propelled it to new heights. Everything from multiplayer to brand new locations have been added to Stardew Valley over time, and sometimes common fan requests make their way into new updates, too. However, that doesn't necessarily mean it's the leading factor for choosing update content.
In an interview with PC Gamer Magazine (via GamesRadar), Barone discussed the game's updates and talked about what goes into them. When asked about fan requests making it into Stardew Valley, Barone said that he does pay attention to feedback and requests, but that it isn't the sole or leading factor he takes into consideration. Instead, he often adds ideas that he's thought of while playing Stardew Valley, when he finds himself wishing something was in the game. The majority of the updates are shaped by his whims and intuition.
This may surprise some fans, as many have drawn conclusions regarding similarities between what's added to the game and what fans request. The Iridium Scythe, for example, may have been suggested by Stardew Valley fans before being added to the official title. In another case, winter outfits were added in Stardew Valley 1.6, and prior to that, a popular mod offered that option. Barone has even brought on the creator of the Stardew Valley Expanded mod to work in an official capacity, so he's clearly in touch with what's going on with fans and mods.
Eric Barone Knows What He's Doing
While Barone may not look to fan input first and foremost for the game, it should be clear that he knows how to make the game appealing. Stardew Valley began its rise to fame when it was solely his game, with no other developers working on it with him. While he's gradually brought on some extra team members to assist, the vast majority of what fans love about Stardew Valley is entirely of his creation. While it remains to be seen if any other major updates come to the game, the track record shows that any further changes will likely be welcome ones.
Stardew Valley
- Released
- February 26, 2016
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!
