Eric "ConcernedApe" Barone, the creative mind behind Stardew Valley, has made a heartfelt promise to fans that all future updates and DLCs for the beloved farming simulator/RPG will remain free of charge. This commitment underscores Barone's dedication to his community and his desire to keep the game accessible to everyone.
Barone's Assurance to Fans
In a recent update on Twitter (now known as X), Barone shared insights on the ongoing progress of Stardew Valley's ports and the next PC update. He expressed his continuous dedication, stating, "The ports and next PC update are still in progress. 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."
In response to a fan's comment expressing satisfaction with free content, Barone made a profound pledge: "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." This vow not only reassured fans but also cemented his commitment to providing value without additional costs.
Since its launch in 2016, Stardew Valley has seen numerous updates that have enhanced its gameplay and added new features. The most recent update, version 1.6.9, brought in three new festivals, the ability to have multiple pets, expanded home renovation options, new outfits, additional late-game content, and various quality-of-life improvements.
Barone's promise may extend beyond Stardew Valley to his upcoming project, Haunted Chocolatier, although details about this new game remain sparse. As the sole developer behind Stardew Valley, Barone's statement reflects his deep respect and empathy for the gaming community. He humorously challenged fans to "screencap this and shame me if I ever violate this oath," ensuring that new and engaging content will continue to be freely accessible, even as the game celebrates its seventh year.
