Stardew Valley is an amalgamation of several mini-activities possible, set in a fantasy town rich with unlockable lore as you continue playing over time. With my limited knowledge as a beginning player with (only) 40 hours played, I’ve experienced at least 3 types of fun: Discovery, Fantasy, and Sensation.
Beginning with discovery, I really enjoy the mechanics of the game that include discovery of hidden easter eggs (like Lewis’s golden statue) as well as encoded discoveries that are unlocked the longer you play the game (ginger island, skull cavern, etc). I also really enjoy the sense of meta or fourth-wall breaking that is introduced the EVEN LONGER you play the game, such as Mr. Qi’s Casino and the Golden Walnut room that really highlight the depth of the game for intense players and allow a sense of connection to the developer.
Fantasy is one of my favorite types of fun, and I definitely experience it in Stardew Valley. I really enjoy playing Stardew when I’m procrastinating or avoiding other life responsibilities. When life’s task seem too large to complete, I can get small achievements through Stardew. This is dependent on the small tasks available through the daily bulletin board (often deliveries), the daily chores on the farm (harvesting, planting, petting animals), and the opportunity to fish, forage, mine, and more. The lore of the game, and the characters’ storylines, also contribute to the fantasy aspect as you can really get invested into the cut-scenes and what’s going on in the lives of the townsfolk.
Sensation is a large part of Stardew Valley, and it’s mainly achieved through sound. Most obviously, there are theme songs playing throughout the game, that change depending on location (i.e. special song for the Tavern) and/or season. These songs are calming, happy, and honestly very nice to listen to outside of the game! Furthermore, there are unique sounds for most actions. Walking produces a soft footstep, especially in the snow, and so does riding a horse. Mining is especially satisfying due to the clinks produced by the pickaxe and the stone. My favorite, however, is likely the magical sparkle sound when you discover a new gemstone out of an ore. The mechanism of added sound effects as well as a soothing theme song per season emphasize sensation as a type of fun in Stardew.
Discovery, fantasy, sensation are all important types of fun to be had while playing Stardew Valley. They are supported through the mechanisms of lore and discoverable locations, achievable tasks and storyline, and sound effects and theme songs. All of these mechanisms make a very effective aesthetic for Stardew Valley.
