Stardew Valley on Nintendo Switch has a history of delayed updates compared to PC and mobile. This was the case with the recent 1.6.9.40 patch, designed to address issues stemming from the substantial 1.6 update. While the patch finally arrived on January 18th, it unfortunately introduced a new set of unintended problems, particularly with the gifting mechanic.
The 1.6 update was a significant milestone for Stardew Valley, introducing a plethora of new content. It’s speculated to be the last major update for a while, as developer ConcernedApe refocuses on Haunted Chocolatier. Several minor patches have followed 1.6, including the recent 1.6.9.40 patch for the Switch, aiming to fix issues like the raccoon shop bug, divorce-related crashes, and rain randomization. Ironically, addressing these issues seems to have inadvertently created a new one impacting the core gameplay element of gifting.
Unintended Consequences: Villagers Now Love Every Gift
Following the 1.6.9.40 update, players reported a peculiar issue with the gifting system. Normally, villagers have distinct preferences, loving, liking, or disliking certain gifts. However, the update seemingly made every villager love every gift, regardless of their previous preferences.
This eliminates the strategic element of learning each NPC’s preferences, a key aspect of building relationships. While simplifying gift-giving might seem beneficial, it removes the nuanced character interactions and individual personalities that contribute to Stardew Valley’s charm.
Developer Acknowledges the Gifting Glitch
ConcernedApe has publicly acknowledged the gifting issue, confirming it’s a widespread problem. In response to player inquiries, the developer reassured fans that the issue is being investigated and a fix is in development.
“Easy Mode” Friendship: A Mixed Blessing
While some players appreciate the temporary “easy mode” for building relationships and pursuing marriage candidates, many feel it diminishes the challenge and satisfaction of earning an NPC’s affection. The strategic element of discovering and providing preferred gifts is a beloved part of the gameplay for many.
Is it a True Exploit? Some Players Remain Skeptical
Interestingly, not all players believe the glitch provides a genuine friendship boost. Some observe that while the dialogue suggests a loved gift, the actual friendship points gained seem to correspond to the original like/dislike values. This suggests players should still monitor their relationship levels, as the dialogue might be misleading.
Looking Ahead: A Fix is on the Horizon
With ConcernedApe actively working on a solution, a fix for the gifting glitch is anticipated. However, like all Switch patches, it will require Nintendo’s approval process, meaning players might have to contend with this unusual quirk for a little longer. The situation highlights the complexities of game development, where even minor patches can have unforeseen consequences.
