Please note that this article is based purely off my observations of the game, and is not connected with Concerned Ape (Eric Barone), the developer and publisher of Stardew Valley. I’ve played through the game multiple times, and the purpose of this article is just to help parents/care givers/guardians to make an informed decision to whether Stardew Valley is suitable for their children/ those they care for.

Stardew Valley is an excellent value for money video game available on Steam, GOG (Good Old Games), Microsoft Xbox 1, Sony PS4, Nintendo Switch, IOS, and Android. At around $20, it’s excellent value considering how much game-play there is, and how long a play through can be. (I’ve played a farm for over 200 total hours in the game)

However, there are some issues in the game ranging from the Mayor Lewis’ shenanigans to the alcohol problems that Pam and Shane have. Here is a list of any issues which I feel may be of concern, after reading these, please make your own judgement call on whether Stardew Valley is appropriate or not.

• A father comes back from the war (The war is never shown except referenced occasionally in dialogue) and has PTSD.
• Pam and Shane both have alcohol problems.
• Mayor Lewis has an affair with Marnie who runs the ranch. A quest of his involves finding his purple boxer shorts in her bedroom, and a second involves one which could be interpreted as sexual innuendo.
• Willy and Sebastian smoke in occasional scenes. (Willy, only when you first meet him)
• Due to some dialogue between Clint and Emily, Clint can come across as a bit of a creep if you’ve married Emily.
• Demetrius and Sebastian have a bit of an indifferent relationship in a step-father, step-son relationship.
• Abigail has a bit of an obsession with the occult.
• Very occasional coarse language, usually light.
• Leah has been married in the past and her ex is part of her heart events. This results in a final mildly violent event.

9/06/22