Stardew Valley has quietly arrived on the Nintendo Switch 2, launching without any prior announcement. Players who already own the game on the original Nintendo Switch can upgrade to the Switch 2 version for free, though the option currently only appears when accessed directly from the Switch 2 console itself. Users browsing the Nintendo eShop on desktop may not see the upgrade listing. New buyers can purchase the Switch 2 version for $14.99.
The surprise release was first spotted by Wario64, who confirmed that the upgrade process is hardware-specific for now. While creator Eric “ConcernedApe” Barone had only mentioned a vague Fall 2025 window for the Switch 2 version, the unexpected Christmas-time launch feels like a deliberate holiday surprise for fans who had been waiting.
According to the Nintendo eShop description, Stardew Valley remains true to its roots. Players inherit a run-down farm from their grandfather and work to rebuild it while integrating into a small town slowly being overtaken by the corporate Joja Corporation. Farming, relationships, exploration, and restoring the community center form the heart of the experience, rewarding patience and long-term planning.
The Nintendo Switch 2 Edition introduces several quality-of-life upgrades. These include mouse-style controls for smoother inventory management and furniture placement, expanded multiplayer options with up to four players in local split-screen or eight players online, and support for Nintendo’s Game Share feature, allowing one owner to invite up to three friends even if they don’t own the game.
Developed entirely by solo creator Eric Barone, Stardew Valley originally launched on PC in February 2016 and has since become one of the most successful indie games of all time. As of late 2025, the game has surpassed 41 million copies sold worldwide, proving its enduring appeal nearly a decade after release. With its quiet debut on Switch 2, Stardew Valley once again shows how timeless design can outlast hardware generations.
