One of the most relaxing genres in the video game industry is farm management. This type of game continues to add new titles in an attempt to offer completely new ideas and intriguing options to players. However, as is often the case in all genres, there are names that stand out above others, becoming true benchmarks that all developers try to emulate in order to achieve a piece of their success.

One of these prominent names is Stardew Valley, a title released in 2016 that has become one of the most representative titles of the so-called 'cosy' genre. In a year that marks its tenth anniversary, its sole developer, Eric Barone, has already announced that there are some very interesting plans in store for all those who continue to enjoy the game. Thus, 2026 is a year in which the new version of the farm management title hopes to offer its definitive form before giving way to its creator's next project.

The game's spiritual successor, Haunted Chocolatier, has been in development for several years and is set to be one of the most disruptive and groundbreaking titles in the genre. Thus, Stardew Valley's progress during its tenth anniversary celebration may be key to laying the foundations for its next venture, without forgetting the essence that has defined it throughout all these years.

More social interaction to expand villagers' options

Among the highlights of this new Stardew Valley update are new social interaction options with villagers, which are key to the experience. According to Barone himself, there will be more content focused on the characters and the social aspect, and it is also traditional to add a new type of farm. There are many more new features, but for now he prefers not to reveal too much so as not to spoil the surprise for all the players, as it will be a very special moment to celebrate ten years since the original release.

Considering that the original version of the game included a single map and now has up to eight different types of farms, these additions offer hundreds of options for players to continue expanding their hours played in one of the benchmarks of the farm management genre. One of the most requested additions is the inclusion of new characters to increase dialogue interaction and even romance.

Therefore, this version 1.7 of Stardew Valley is one of those projects that aims to be truly ambitious in order to continue the game's success. What is clear is that the title will continue to evolve over the years, despite the launch of Haunted Chocolatier, as the two games are expected to coexist, since they are complementary and offer totally different experiences.

The Nintendo Switch 2 version, the big draw of the new update

Beyond all the new features that the new Stardew Valley update will bring, another major addition expected for the game in 2026 is the Nintendo Switch 2 version. The Japanese company's new console is considered one of the most attractive platforms for enjoying this type of game, especially due to its portable mode. Players are therefore hoping for news on this front soon.

At the moment, it is unknown whether the Nintendo Switch 2 version of Stardew Valley will arrive in time for the title's tenth anniversary, which is celebrated at the end of February, but its creator has promised to provide details very soon. Everything points to 2026 being a key moment in closing the circle on the game's first ten years and continuing to be one of the leading titles in the farm management genre. This Switch 2 version is expected to include graphical and stability improvements, making it one of the best editions to enjoy the game.

With all this, Stardew Valley is not only preparing to celebrate a decade of resounding success, but also reaffirming its position as the unbeatable heart of the 'cosy' genre. With version 1.7 on the horizon and the arrival on Nintendo Switch 2 promising a superior technical experience, 2026 is shaping up to be the perfect tribute to a community that has made Pelican Town their second home. Eric Barone has achieved the unthinkable: keeping the essence of an independent project alive for ten years while paving the way for Haunted Chocolatier. Whether cultivating new land or strengthening ties with neighbours, the future of the farm has never looked so bright and welcoming as it does on this tenth anniversary.