The Switch 2 has many improvements over its predecessor. One of the least assuming of these upgrades is the ability to support mouse gameplay, such as in the Switch 2 version of Stardew Valley that released today to everyone’s surprise. While mouse controls may seem like a niche inclusion for Nintendo, which have always preferred using their controllers, allowing users to play ported indie titles like Stardew Valley close to the original experience is a major draw for many players. For the end of the year and beyond, owners of the Switch 2 edition of the game will have that chance.
Revealed in the September Nintendo Direct, the Switch 2 version for Stardew Valley was originally intended to release some time in fall, leaving many fans wondering when they would have a chance to play with the promised features when the season ended. Luckily for them, they did not end up needing to wait long, with the upgrade becoming available less than a week into winter. For those with a Switch 2, the new features will come automatically, introducing 4-player, split-screen co-op, Gameshare with up to 3 other Switch systems, eight player online multiplayer, and the aforementioned mouse controls. The mouse controls should be especially nostalgic for those that played the first version of the game on PC, allowing objects to be moved quickly and more naturally for many players.
Content comes slowly and deliberately to Stardew Valley, with the last major update, 1.6, released on March 19th, 2024, and the latest update in general from February 12th, 2025. While work on the next update progresses, the upgraded Switch 2 version shows the consistent effort that goes into improving player experience. As one of the most respected indie titles today, Stardew Valley has done much to keep itself from being forgotten. The Switch 2 Edition Upgrade Pack is now available alongside the game, given freely to those with the Switch 1 version already installed.