Mod Installation Guide
Stardew Valley has a vibrant modding community that has created thousands of mods to enhance and expand the game. This guide covers everything you need to know about installing and using mods.
TL;DR
To use mods in Stardew Valley, you need SMAPI (Stardew Modding API). Download SMAPI from smapi.io, install it to your game folder, then place mod files in the Mods folder. Popular mods include Stardew Valley Expanded (SVE), UI Info Suite 2, and Automate.
What is SMAPI?
SMAPI (Stardew Modding API) is the mod loader for Stardew Valley. It is required for most mods to function.
- Official Website: https://smapi.io/
- Mod Loading: Loads and manages all installed mods
- Compatibility: Checks mod versions and game compatibility
- Error Handling: Displays errors and helps troubleshoot
How to Install SMAPI (Windows)
- Download SMAPI from https://smapi.io/
- Extract the ZIP file to a temporary folder
- Run install.exe and select your Stardew Valley game folder
- Launch the game using StardewModdingAPI.exe
How to Install Mods
- Download mods from Nexus Mods (https://www.nexusmods.com/stardewvalley)
- Extract mod files (usually ZIP archives)
- Place the mod folder in your game Mods folder
- Launch SMAPI to load the mods
Best Mods to Try
Stardew Valley Expanded (SVE)
The largest content mod for Stardew Valley:
- 28+ new NPCs with unique stories
- 58 new locations to explore
- 278+ new events and cutscenes
- Created by FlashShifter
UI Info Suite 2
Displays detailed information about crops, animals, and machines on the game interface.
Automate
Automatically processes items through connected machines. Connect chests to machines for automatic processing.
Tractor Mod
Adds a purchasable tractor (50,000g at Robin shop) for automated farming tasks.
Troubleshooting
- Game wonโt start: Check SMAPI console for errors
- Mod not loading: Verify mod is in correct folder
- Game crashes: Remove problematic mod
Data Sources
All mod information is based on the official SMAPI website (smapi.io) and Nexus Mods.