Stardew Valley Switch 2 Edition Announced: Free Upgrade Brings Mouse Mode and Enhanced Multiplayer

Stardew Valley, the critically acclaimed farming simulation developed by ConcernedApe, continues to set a high standard for post-launch support and community dedication.

Following its remarkable commercial and critical success on the Nintendo Switch platform—where it has become one of the console’s best-selling indie titles—fans can look forward to an even richer experience.

In the latest Nintendo Direct presentation, Nintendo and developer ConcernedApe officially announced the "Stardew Valley Switch 2 Edition," bringing several significant upgrades and features to the next generation of Nintendo hardware. Building on the developer’s commitment to ongoing improvement, the Switch 2 Edition will be available as a completely free upgrade for all existing owners of Stardew Valley.

This news comes shortly after ConcernedApe, also known as Eric Barone, confirmed the development of a forthcoming 1.7 update, ensuring the game’s legacy will only grow stronger on Nintendo Switch platforms. One of the headline features of the Switch 2 Edition is the introduction of Mouse Mode controls.

With this addition, players can decorate their homes and manage their farms with more precise and intuitive cursor-based interaction, closely mirroring the experience found on the PC version.

This enhanced control option offers greater flexibility and ease of use, especially for enthusiasts who dedicate countless hours to perfecting their virtual homesteads. Multiplayer functionality has also received a substantial boost.

The Switch 2 Edition will support up to four players in local split-screen multiplayer and up to eight players in online sessions—bringing friends and family together for collaborative farming like never before.

According to Nintendo’s announcement, these expanded options aim to foster a more inclusive and interactive community experience. The upgraded edition further extends value through GameShare compatibility, a feature that enables players to invite up to three others to join their Stardew Valley worlds—even if those friends don’t own their own copies of the game.

Importantly, GameShare is fully compatible with both Nintendo Switch and Switch 2 models, ensuring seamless cross-generation play.

This new option reinforces Stardew Valley’s reputation for accessibility and multiplayer innovation. First released on Nintendo Switch in October 2017, Stardew Valley has consistently ranked among the top-rated indie games on the eShop, earning praise for its charming pixel art, deep gameplay systems, and regular free content updates.

Under the guidance of ConcernedApe, the title continues to evolve, meeting and exceeding player expectations on every major Nintendo hardware iteration. With the Switch 2 Edition, Stardew Valley remains at the forefront of the farm simulation genre, reaffirming its enduring appeal and the dedication of its creators.

Existing and new players alike will find plenty to love when the free upgrade becomes available, making it the perfect time to plant new roots—or return to beloved ones—in Pelican Town.

Nintendo Switch 2 Nintendo Switch Nintendo GameShare Switch 2 Switch Stardew Valley Switch 2 Edition Multiplayer ConcernedApe Nintendo Direct eShop