Summary
- Stardew Valley doesn't necessarily need it, but an enhanced version for Xbox Series X|S and PS5 could boost visuals.
- A PS5/Xbox Series X version could pave the way for a move to the Switch 2, offering better graphics.
- Stardew Valley as a launch title on the Switch 2 would be fitting, following the success on other platforms.
ConcernedApe's Stardew Valley has been widely recognized as one of the best indie titles ever made and one of the greatest in the life sim genre. However, Stardew Valley is also now over 8 years old and could profit from a bit of a visual enhancement.
Perhaps Stardew Valley doesn't necessarily need a visual upgrade of any kind, as its gameplay has more than carried it to success. That being said, a proper Xbox Series X|S or PlayStation 5 version wouldn't be a bad idea, and it would open the door for the game to move to another console as well.
Stardew Valley May Need to Head to the Switch 2
Stardew Valley on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X and S Would Justify a Move to the Switch 2
Stardew Valley may be playable on the PS5 and Xbox Series X|S, but the game has still not received an enhanced version that would take advantage of the power provided by those consoles. Currently, ConcernedApe has not shared any plans to either develop and sell a current-gen copy of the game or to offer a digital upgrade, but that doesn't mean it's out of the question. An upgraded version of Stardew Valley for the PS5 and Xbox Series X|S would provide better graphics and a much better frame rate, despite any arguments that such qualities aren't all that necessary in a game like Stardew Valley.
Naturally, Stardew Valley currently provides its best visuals on PC, but a PS5 or Xbox Series X|S edition of the game could potentially offer console-users a similar experience. That's not all a current-gen version of Stardew Valley could accomplish, however, as it would also justify a move to the highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 console. This would be especially true if the Switch 2 maintains its position behind the PS5 and Xbox Series X|S when it comes to graphical power, although the Switch 2 would still undoubtedly offer a better visual experience than the current Switch is capable of.
Arguably, Stardew Valley is worth playing on a handheld, even the Steam Deck — which even allows players to take advantage of all the Stardew Valley mods available. After all, a cozy game like Stardew Valley deserves to be played in a cozy environment, and handheld platforms provide that opportunity. However, the chance to enjoy the farm life sim on the upcoming Switch 2 could be even better, depending on what the console features in terms of hardware. Needless to say, Stardew Valley on the Nintendo Switch 2 almost seems like a must, and it would likely even do well as one of the console's launch titles.
Stardew Valley Could Serve as a Launch Title for the Nintendo Switch 2
While the Switch 2 has not been officially confirmed yet and therefore its release window hangs in the balance, Stardew Valley would be a great launch title for the console, despite now being over 8 years old. The Nintendo Switch 2 has already confirmed one launch title, My Time at Evershine, another life sim and the next installment in the My Time series. As such, Stardew Valley already has a bit of an inroad to the Switch 2, being another game like My Time at Evershine that could even profit from its reception.
Arguably, Stardew Valley is worth playing on a handheld, even the Steam Deck — which even allows players to take advantage of all the Stardew Valley mods available.
Again, ConcernedApe has yet to mention any plans of developing and releasing an enhanced version of Stardew Valley made especially for current-gen consoles like the Xbox Series X|S and the PS5. That being said, should the developer head that direction anytime soon, developing a Nintendo Switch 2 port would be welcome as well, as it would provide Switch 2 owners with one of the best indie games ever made and give them something worthwhile to enjoy on their new console.
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OpenCritic Reviews
- Top Critic Avg: 90 /100 Critics Rec: 99%
- Released
- February 26, 2016
- 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
- Cross-Platform Play
- Stardew Valley does not currently support crossplay between different consoles and PC
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!
- Cross Save
- cross-progression is only available between the PC and mobile versions of the game
- Number of Players
- 1-4
- Split Screen Orientation
- Vertical or Horizontal
- Steam Deck Compatibility
- Verified
- Genre(s)
- RPG, Simulation
- How Long To Beat
- 53 Hours
- X|S Optimized
- No
- File Size Xbox Series
- 1 GB (November 2023)
- Local Co-Op Support
- 1-4 Players
- OpenCritic Rating
- Mighty
