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Essential Stardew Valley mods

Almost everything runs on SMAPI. Unzip each mod into the game's Mods folder; SMAPI's console tells you exactly what's missing or outdated.

Hand-picked by ModSafe, listed in install order. We link only to the official download pages and never host files. Badges reflect our live framework status for 1.6.15. List verified 2026-10-15.

📘 How to install mods Recommended manager: SMAPI (with Stardrop or Vortex optional) ↗ Community compatibility list ↗

1

SMAPI

Framework

The mod loader itself; checks every mod for updates and errors on launch.

No requirements

Tracked framework: Safe for the latest patch.

2

Content Patcher

Framework

Loads content packs (art, dialogue, events) without replacing game files.

Requires: SMAPI

Needs SMAPI; weakest link: SMAPI (Safe).

3

Generic Mod Config Menu

Interface

One in-game settings menu for every mod that supports it.

Requires: SMAPI

Needs SMAPI; weakest link: SMAPI (Safe).

4

SpaceCore

Framework

Shared code library that many larger mods require.

Requires: SMAPI

Needs SMAPI; weakest link: SMAPI (Safe).

5

Json Assets

Framework

Older framework for custom crops and items; only needed if a mod asks for it.

Requires: SMAPI, SpaceCore

Needs SMAPI; weakest link: SMAPI (Safe).

6

Farm Type Manager

Framework

Spawns forage, ore and monsters for mods like Stardew Valley Expanded.

Requires: SMAPI

Needs SMAPI; weakest link: SMAPI (Safe).

7

Lookup Anything

Quality of life

Press F1 on anything to see its stats, gift tastes or growth time.

Requires: SMAPI

Needs SMAPI; weakest link: SMAPI (Safe).

8

Chests Anywhere

Quality of life

Open and organise any chest from anywhere on the map.

Requires: SMAPI

Needs SMAPI; weakest link: SMAPI (Safe).

9

Automate

Quality of life

Machines next to chests pull ingredients and store output by themselves.

Requires: SMAPI

Needs SMAPI; weakest link: SMAPI (Safe).

10

NPC Map Locations

Interface

Shows villagers on the map so you can find them for gifts.

Requires: SMAPI

Needs SMAPI; weakest link: SMAPI (Safe).

11

UI Info Suite 2

Interface

Luck, weather, crop timers and more right on the HUD.

Requires: SMAPI

Needs SMAPI; weakest link: SMAPI (Safe).

12

CJB Cheats Menu

Tools

Optional cheat and debug menu: time control, speed, relationships.

Requires: SMAPI

Needs SMAPI; weakest link: SMAPI (Safe).

13

CJB Item Spawner

Tools

Spawn any item; handy for testing or recovering a lost one.

Requires: SMAPI

Needs SMAPI; weakest link: SMAPI (Safe).

14

Stardew Valley Expanded

Content

Huge fan expansion with new areas, characters and events. Start a new save for the best experience.

Requires: SMAPI, Content Patcher, Farm Type Manager

Needs SMAPI; weakest link: SMAPI (Safe).

Mod pages and requirements can change; always read the mod's own page before installing. Not affiliated with Nexus Mods or any mod author.