Has Stardew Valley Creator Charged Money for Any DLC or Updates?
For fans of the popular farming simulation game, Stardew Valley, there’s one promise from the game’s creator, Eric “ConcernedApe” Barone, that remains steadfast: he has committed to never charging players for downloadable content (DLC) or updates. This commitment stands as a testament to his dedication to the community, and makes Stardew Valley a standout in a market where paid DLC and microtransactions have become the norm.
A Pledge to Gamers
Eric Barone recently reinforced his pledge in a post on social media site X, previously known as Twitter. Answering a fan’s compliment on the free updates, Barone stated emphatically, “I swear on the honor of my family name, I will never charge money for a DLC or update for as long as I live. Screencap this and shame me if I ever violate this oath.”
I swear on the honor of my family name, i will never charge money for a DLC or update for as long as I live. Screencap this and shame me if I ever violate this oath
— ConcernedApe (@ConcernedApe) July 22, 2024
This promise has become a hallmark of Barone’s development philosophy, distinguishing Stardew Valley amidst other contemporary games. Notably, Stardew Valley’s updates often include substantial content additions rather than just minor enhancements or bug fixes. Since its release in 2016, the game has seen a multitude of updates, each adding new features and gameplay improvements without any extra cost to players.
Continuous Development and Free Updates
Earlier today, Barone took to the same platform to provide an update on the status of the upcoming 1.6 update for console and mobile versions of the game. According to the developer, these ports are still “in progress,” echoing the sentiment that the updates are ongoing and top of mind. This is after the PC version received the 1.6 update back in March.
“The ports and next PC update are still in progress,” wrote Barone. “I know it is taking a long time, it’s on my mind every minute. I have personally been working on the mobile port every day. I will announce when there is any meaningful news (e.g., a release date). Hope you’re having a good summer.”
What’s New in Update 1.6?
The 1.6 update, which rolled out on PC, added a plethora of new content, including new festivals, items, crafting recipes, character dialogue, and a new farm type. Additionally, players can now indulge in quirky activities like drinking mayonnaise, should they so choose. These kinds of fun, optional extras are part of what makes the game so loved by its community.
Importantly, Barone’s promise of free updates isn’t confined to Stardew Valley. Fans believe that the same sentiment could extend to his upcoming game, Haunted Chocolatier. “Better to have a delayed game that’s actually good than a bad game that’s on time,” says Barone, highlighting his commitment to delivering quality content.
Looking Ahead
No one can predict how many more updates Stardew Valley will receive, but given Barone’s statements, it’s clear he’s committed to continuing his work for as long as the community supports it. “I could keep working on [Stardew Valley] forever,” Barone said, though he did also acknowledge that “at some point you have to move on.”
However, fans can rest easy knowing that as long as Barone is at the helm, they’ll never have to pay for additional content in Stardew Valley. This practice helps cultivate a strong, supportive community around the game and sets a positive example in the larger gaming industry.
Community Reactions
The community’s reaction to Barone’s pledge has been overwhelmingly supportive. Many fans have taken to social media to express their gratitude and admiration for his commitment to transparency and quality. “As long as everything you add is completely free, with a bunch of new content, people won’t complain for the wait,” one fan commented, encapsulating a common sentiment among Stardew Valley enthusiasts.
Barone also works tirelessly on this pledge, maintaining a one-man studio that achieves what many large game development companies often fail to do. The dedication put into each update, regardless of its size, is clear and appreciated by the community.
A Model for Future Releases
As we look to the future, Barone’s approach to game development and updates serves as a model for other indie and major developers alike. His commitment to never charging for updates ensures that all players, regardless of their financial situation, can experience the game’s full potential.
At the end of the day, Eric Barone’s guarantee to keep all future updates and DLCs free is not just a promise; it’s a public declaration of his principles and dedication to his community. As fans eagerly await the next updates and new game releases, they can do so with the confidence that Barone’s values will remain unwavering.
Are you excited about the upcoming updates for Stardew Valley? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Anna, a seasoned video game journalist, has contributed to various notable platforms since completing her postgraduate studies in English Literature and Medieval History. When not writing, Anna spends her time immersed in fantasy video games and literature, dreaming of becoming a fairy druid.
If you’d like to read more about games like Stardew Valley, click here for our favorites list!
Priyanka 
Divya