Summary
- Stardew Valley dives deep into heavy themes, contrasting the cozy farm life with the brutal but distant reality of war with the Gotoro Empire.
- Kent's return brings a glimpse of the harsh realities of war to the peaceful town, highlighting the effects of conflict on the villagers.
- The ongoing war with the Gotoro Empire makes it all the more important to cherish the quiet life in Pelican Town.
Stardew Valley effortlessly immerses players in a beautiful and cozy town, providing everything needed to start a flourishing farm. While the overall atmosphere is exactly what one would expect from a farming sim, at times the story of Stardew Valley manages to go much deeper and darker, exploring very heavy themes. Shane, for example, quite often ends up being the topic of heated discussions due to his very dual nature. He can be uncaring, rude, and outright self-destructive at times. However, over time, he does a fantastic job of taking back his life and making both himself and those around him much happier.
While raising chickens and growing flowers, it can be incredibly easy to forget that the Ferngill Republic, the nation in which Stardew Valley is located, is at war with another nation. Not too much is known about the Gotoro Empire, besides what the players glean from a few conversations with Kent and a couple of passing mentions in the library. Most of Kent’s stories paint both the Gotoro Empire and the war in the same brutal colors, speaking mostly of how horrible both of those are. In the end, the juxtaposition adds quite a lot to the overall feel and atmosphere of the game.
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Kent Brings Both Joy And Hardships to Stardew Valley
Kent is a battle-hardened veteran who has been absent for an entire year. His wife and children clearly miss him and anxiously await his return. This is usually where players find out that there is even a war going on, and it is quite the contrast to the villagers’ generally calm stories and demeanors. As the year goes on, the Farmer is integrated into the community, participating in the various events and gatherings and getting into the rhythm of country life.
That is precisely when Kent comes back, once the peaceful farming routine feels like the norm for both the Farmer and the players. The Gotoro Empire or the conflict itself is not something Kent wants to talk about at all, but he will occasionally mention it when something bad happens, like the popcorn event at his house. Over time, however, he begins to relax and embrace the love of those around him, and he even thanks the Farmer for their support.
Conflict Between The Ferngill Republic And The Gotoro Empire Is There For A Reason
The War Might Also Affect The Stardew Valley Economy
Some players speculate that the reason farming is so profitable is precisely due to the ongoing conflict and the shortage of food. The vendors that bring goods from the Gotoro Empire will often have inflated prices and sometimes mention having to smuggle them out. While that may be the case, the conflict is also important because of how it frames the peaceful village and its inhabitants.
Everything happens in spite of the ongoing conflict. The villagers are no strangers to difficult life situations or struggles, but they do what they can to make the most of their lives. Kent comes back to Pelican Town from an incredibly difficult place and is shown support by everyone involved. Whatever their differences may be, the villagers band together during both good and bad times. Kent’s experience makes both the villagers and the players appreciate the peace that much more.
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It has been hinted that Haunted Chocolatier might be set in the same world as Stardew Valley, and it will be interesting to see if the world building will be expanded on, including the Gotoro Empire. Regardless of whether players will have more information or not, it is still an important piece of existing lore, and another reason to appreciate the love and peace within the cozy valley.
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!
- ESRB
- E for Everyone (Fantasy Violence, Mild Blood, Mild Language, Simulated Gambling, Use of Alcohol and Tobacco)
- Developer(s)
- ConcernedApe
- Publisher(s)
- ConcernedApe
- Engine
- Proprietary
- Multiplayer
- Local Multiplayer, Online Multiplayer
- Number of Players
- 1-4
- Split Screen Orientation
- Vertical or Horizontal
- Steam Deck Compatibility
- Verified
- Metascore
- 89
- Genre(s)
- RPG, Simulation
- How Long To Beat
- 53 Hours
- File Size Xbox Series
- 1 GB (November 2023)
- Local Co-Op Support
- 1-4 Players
