“Stardew Valley” has finally gotten a release date for the Nintendo Switch and it’s launching today. The popular farming simulator game captures all the charms of the original “Harvest Moon” and “Rune Factory” games along with some new elements for good measure. While the game might have suffered from some control issues on other platforms, it seems like the Switch version might be the most seamless port yet.
Great controls
According to a recent Kotaku post, “Stardew Valley” already feels perfect on the Nintendo Switch. It’s easy to get lost in the game, especially if you’re just looking to unwind after a long day.
The Switch’s portability is what makes this version of the game extremely appealing, especially for those who are huge fans of farming simulators. It’s a big issue when you want to Play The Game on the go, but you don’t want to lug around a heavy laptop with you.
That said, the game has a few clunky UI problems on the PC version. The fishing mini-game has proved to be a major problem with the keyboard and mouse, but it seems that the developers have managed to streamline the controls for the Nintendo Switch. While the cursor isn’t entirely gone, you don't have to bring it up if you don’t want to. You can play the game using the JoyCons and it still feels smooth and natural. That said, Nintendo Switch fans should definitely look into picking up “Stardew Valley” when it launches later today.
Multiplayer
Switch version aside, the game will be getting a major multiplayer patch sometime next year. If you’re tired of playing alone, this new update will let you farm with up to three other friends. These companions will be known as “farmhands” that live on your land. They can basically do everything the host can do, except for a few functions like deciding when to sleep or start events.
Aside from work, your friends can also head over to town and mingle with the townsfolk. If a bachelor/bachelorette catches their interest, they can even pursue them and get married. While the details are still scarce, the developer is also looking into player-to-player marriage. This new feature won’t follow the typical courting method, but it will feel just as taxing as trying to woo an NPC.
Chucklefish has stated that they will release a PC beta later this year, and if all goes well, they’ll launch the patch next year on all platforms – starting with the Nintendo Switch. Those who want to play “Stardew Valley” can get a copy for the PC, PS4, and Xbox One.
