How long to beat Stardew Valley? Main goal, extras and 100%

Stardew Valley takes about 50 hours to beat, according to players on IGDB, if you aim for the main goal. With a good chunk of extra content, plan on around 90 hours, and about 208 to complete everything. But here's the thing: Stardew Valley doesn't really end. You can keep farming as long as you like, and plenty of players never stop.

The main goal: about 50 hours

Released in 2016 and made by ConcernedApe, Stardew Valley has you inherit your grandfather's old farm. The main thread is restoring the Community Center by completing its bundles, or letting Joja Corporation move in instead. Most players feel they've finished the game once the Community Center is fixed up, and that takes around fifty hours.

With side content: about 90 hours

Then there's everything else: reaching the bottom of the mines, braving the Skull Cavern, befriending the townsfolk, getting married, expanding the farm and discovering Ginger Island. Every season brings its own crops and festivals. This content is the heart of the game, and it's where you lose track of time.

100% completion: about 208 hours

The game tracks your progress toward Perfection: every item shipped, every recipe, every fish, every friendship maxed out, and much more. It's a huge undertaking that takes planning across several in-game years. Best for die-hard fans, but it's a very satisfying list to fill.

How many evenings to plan

At 2 hours a night, the main goal is about 25 evenings. With side content, count roughly 45 evenings, and about 104 evenings for 100%. The good news: an in-game day is short, so it's perfect for small sessions. You can also share a farm in co-op.

Tips to progress faster

Invest in sprinklers early, they free up a crazy amount of time every morning. Focus on profitable crops each season and plant right at the start so you get every day out of them. Check the weather and the birthday calendar. And don't stress: Stardew Valley is meant to be savored. For more gentle games, see our cozy games.

Verdict

Stardew Valley can last about 50 hours or several hundred, it's your call. Set yourself a clear goal, like restoring the Community Center, then let the game carry you. If you want more afterward, check our games like Stardew Valley.

FAQ

Does Stardew Valley have an ending?

Not really. There's a big goal, restoring the Community Center, and an evaluation by your grandfather's spirit, but you can keep playing with no limit after that. Many players consider the game done once the Community Center is restored, around 50 hours according to IGDB.

How long does it take to 100% Stardew Valley?

According to players on IGDB, it takes about 208 hours to reach 100% in Stardew Valley. That includes Perfection: every item, recipe and fish, every friendship maxed and all of Ginger Island. It's a long-term project.

Can you play Stardew Valley with friends?

Yes, Stardew Valley has a co-op mode where several players share the same farm. Everyone gets a house and can specialize, one in crops, another in the mines for example. It speeds up progress a lot and it's great fun with friends or a partner.