Stardew Valley creator Eric ‘ConcernedApe’ Barone has shared advice for players considering using mods with the game after the highly anticipated 1.6 update releases on PC. Barone recommended checking out the SMAPI mod site for compatibility and announced a public Steam branch where players can stay on version 1.5.6 if they choose. While he suggested trying out 1.6 without mods, he acknowledged that the decision ultimately rests with the player.
For players who may not be ready to adopt the changes from the new update, the option to use the 1.5.6 branch after the update drops on Steam offers a solution. This will be especially helpful for those who rely on specific mods that may not immediately be compatible with version 1.6. Barone also emphasized the idea of starting a fresh save to fully experience the new content in the correct order, potentially offering a more cohesive gaming experience as opposed to continuing an old playthrough.
Barone has reassured fans that the 1.6 content will eventually come to Mac and Linux versions, with console versions to follow. He aims to minimize the gaps between platform releases, learning from past challenges in coordinating updates across different platforms. As players gear up for the 1.6 update, IGN provides a guide to the patch notes and highlights the best mods currently available for the 1.5 version of Stardew Valley.