Stardew Valley makes surprise debut on Nintendo Switch 2

GAMING NEWS Fyra Frost - 2 hours ago

In a surprise move that has delighted fans worldwide, Stardew Valley, the acclaimed farming simulation from ConcernedApe, has launched on the Nintendo Switch 2. The new edition is now available on the Nintendo eShop, offering both newcomers and longtime players a fresh way to experience the beloved game. The release, which arrived without prior warning, comes as a holiday treat for the gaming community.

Additional features

The Nintendo Switch 2 edition maintains the core elements that have made Stardew Valley a fan favorite: players can cultivate their farms, interact with the charming residents of Pelican Town, explore mines, fish, and craft tools and goods. However, this edition introduces several features designed specifically for the new console, taking advantage of its enhanced capabilities.

One of the most notable improvements is the expansion of local co-op. Players can now enjoy split-screen farming with up to four participants, doubling the limit of the original Switch version. Online multiplayer has also been upgraded, allowing up to eight players to collaborate, trade, and explore together—making social farming more immersive than ever.

This edition further incorporates mouse-style controls through the Joy-Con 2 controllers, providing smoother inventory management and a more PC-like experience. Additionally, a new GameShare function allows friends to join local co-op sessions without owning the game themselves, making it easier than ever to share the Stardew Valley experience.

For existing Switch owners, the transition is seamless. The new edition is available as a free upgrade, retaining all existing save files and progress. This ensures that players can enjoy the enhanced features without losing any of their hard-earned farm developments. The upgrade does slightly increase the file size but adds significant functionality and multiplayer enhancements.

The Switch 2 edition is accessible while offering exceptional value for current players through the free upgrade. The surprise release has been praised as a smart move, demonstrating how indie titles can leverage the capabilities of new hardware while remaining true to their original design. With its expanded multiplayer options, refined controls, and innovative sharing features, Stardew Valley on Nintendo Switch 2 is set to engage a new generation of player and demonstrating that Nintendo's new console offers much more than Donkey Kong Bananza. Check out the best deals for Stardew Valley with our comparator.