If you're a Stardew Valley fan and want to spice up your gaming experience, adding mods is a great option. Mods can enrich your farm with new features, visual improvements, or unique mechanics.
In this article, I will guide you step by step on how to install Stardew Valley mods.
Step 1: Install SMAPI (the heart of Stardew Valley mods)
SMAPI (Stardew Modding API) is a small software that allows the game to recognize and run modsWithout him, it is impossible to go further.
Here's how to install it step by step on Windows:
1. Download SMAPI
Start by retrieving the archive ZIP containing SMAPI. Once the file is downloaded, you must extract content in an easily accessible folder on your computer (avoid running it directly from the ZIP file, this could cause problems).
2. Launch the installer
In the extracted folder you will find a file named install on Windows.bat. This is the one you need to run. Alternatively, if you are on macOS use the file install on macOS.command and the file install on Linux.sh under Linux.
- Double click on this file to start the installation.
- A black window (command prompt) will open. Don't panic, this is completely normal.
- Check the installation path, it should be the folder where Stardew Valley is installed.
- If the path is correct, type 1 then press Starter.
- In case of path error, type 2, then press Starter, then enter the correct path.
- Tap again 1 to install SMAPI (2 allows uninstalling)
Once you've completed these steps, SMAPI will install itself, just like a pro, in the correct folders. You'll see a message indicating that the installation was successful.
3. Setup with Steam (optional)
If you purchased Stardew Valley on Steam, you can configure the shortcut for launch SMAPI automatically while keeping your achievements and playing time counted. To do this:
- Open Steam and go to your game library.
- Right click on Stardew Valley > Properties.
- In the section General > Launch Options replace the existing line (which may be empty) with the path to SMAPI, which looks like this:
"C:\Chemin\Vers\Stardew Valley\StardewModdingAPI.exe" %command%
Be careful to enter the correct file path StardewModdingAPI.exe on YOUR computer.
Then, when you launch Stardew Valley from Steam, it will be done automatically via SMAPI!
Step 2: Download and install your first mods
Now that SMAPI is installed, you can finally get down to business and install mods !
Where to find mods?
There are thousands of mods out there, and there's something for everyone. But you can check out our list of best mods for Stardew Valley, it will save you some time. Otherwise, Nexus Mod et ModDrop bring together most of the serious Stardew Valley mods.
Once you've spotted the ones you like:
- Download the mod files.
- Open the game folder (where Stardew Valley is installed).
- By default on Windows:
C:\Program Files (x86)\Steam\steamapps\common\Stardew Valley\
- By default on Windows:
- Open the folder Mods (SMAPI normally created it automatically).
- Unzip the mod archive, then drag the resulting folder into the Mods folder.
And that's all !
Please note: Each mod must have its own folder. Don't copy everything in bulk, or it may not work.
For some mods, you will also need to download translation files to drag into the mod folder.
Step 3: Launch the game and test your mods
To play with mods in mind, launch the game via SMAPI, either by clicking on the file StardewModdingAPI.exe (in the game folder), or directly via Steam if you have done the manipulation described above.
A window will open in the background (command prompt): this is SMAPI loading your mods. As long as there are no errors in red, everything is fine!
Some tips to avoid problems
- Always read the mod description : some may need additional files to work.
- Update regularly SMAPI and your mods, especially after a game update.
- In case of a bug, disable mods one by one to identify the culprit.
- Before testing a new mod, save your current game in case something goes wrong.
Conclusion
So, you're now ready to give your farm a new lease on life with mods! With SMAPI installed and a few well-chosen mods, Stardew Valley will take on a little taste of renewal!
