While the latest update of *Stardew Valley* has captured the attention of many, the modding community has been thriving for years. Mods offer an incredible avenue for creativity, allowing players to expand NPC stories, introduce new cosmetic items, and much more. Here's your guide on how to mod *Stardew Valley* on Windows.
It's highly recommended to back up your save file to protect your farm and all the progress you've made. If you're starting fresh, this step might be unnecessary, but for those who've spent countless hours building relationships and crafting, it's a safeguard against potential mishaps.
Backing up is straightforward:
SMAPI, or Stardew Modding API, is essential for integrating mods smoothly into your game. You can download SMAPI directly from their official website.
Related: How To Get Multiple Pets in Stardew Valley
After downloading, extract the SMAPI ZIP file to your desktop or downloads folder. Remember, SMAPI is a mod loader, not a mod itself, so don't extract it into the mod folder.
Run the extracted SMAPI file and select "install on Windows," then follow the on-screen prompts.
If you play *Stardew Valley* through platforms like Steam, GOG Galaxy, or the Xbox App, additional steps might be needed to maintain playtime tracking and achievements. You can find detailed instructions on configuring your game client here.
Now comes the fun part—installing mods to enhance your *Stardew Valley* experience.
Nexus Mods is a go-to site for downloading *Stardew Valley* mods, offering a vast array of options. Mods are usually downloaded as ZIP files, which you need to extract. After extraction, move the files into the 'Mods' folder, which is automatically created during SMAPI installation. The 'Mods' folder can be located in:
With over 1000 mods available on Nexus alone, there's no shortage of ways to personalize your *Stardew Valley* journey.
*Stardew Valley is available now*.