Step-by-Step Modding Guide for Stardew Valley

While the recent Stardew Valley update garnered significant attention, players have long leveraged mods to enhance their gameplay. From expanding NPC stories to adding new cosmetic items, modding offers a gateway to full creative expression. Here’s a guide to modding Stardew Valley.

How to Mod Stardew Valley for Windows

Step One: Back Up Your Save File

Consider this a crucial precaution. Backing up your files ensures your farm remains secure no matter what. If you're starting fresh, this step isn't essential. However, if you've invested hours building friendships and developing your artisan skills, losing that progress would be devastating.

Backing up a save file is straightforward:

Press Win + R to open the Run dialog box. Type %appdata% and press Enter. Open the ‘Stardew Valley’ folder. Open the ‘Saves’ folder. Copy and paste the contents to a secure location on your computer. Step Two: Install SMAPI

SMAPI is a mod loader that seamlessly integrates your chosen modifications into the game. You can download it directly from the official SMAPI website.

Related: How to Get Multiple Pets in Stardew Valley

Once SMAPI is downloaded, extract the ZIP file to a convenient location like your desktop or downloads folder. Remember, SMAPI is a tool for loading mods, not a mod itself. Therefore, do not place it inside your mods folder.

After extracting, run the SMAPI installer and select “Install on Windows.”

Then, follow the on-screen instructions.

Step Three: Configure Your Game Client

If you play Stardew Valley through platforms like Steam, GOG Galaxy, or the Xbox App, you may need to adjust settings to maintain playtime tracking and achievements. Detailed configuration steps for your client can be found here.

Step Four: Installing Mods

Now for the exciting part.

Nexus Mods is the premier destination for Stardew Valley mods, offering a vast library to explore. Mods are usually downloaded as ZIP files. After extraction, simply move the mod folder into your automatically created Mods directory. Locate this folder here:

Steam: C:\Program Files (x86)\Steam\steamapps\common\Stardew Valley GOG Galaxy: C:\Program Files (x86)\GOG Galaxy\Games\Stardew Valley Xbox App: C:\XboxGames\Stardew Valley

That’s the complete process for modding Stardew Valley. With thousands of mods available on Nexus alone, both new and veteran players will find endless ways to refresh their experience.

Stardew Valley is available now.