Stardew Valley, a beloved farming simulator, offers a relaxing escape, especially when enjoyed with friends. While cross-platform play remains unavailable, multiplayer has always been a core feature on most platforms—except mobile. Until recently, mobile players were confined to their in-game villagers for companionship. However, with the recent 1.6 update, a hidden cheat code unlocks an experimental mobile multiplayer feature, bringing the joy of shared farming to mobile devices. This guide reveals how to access this exciting new feature.
Unlocking Mobile Multiplayer: A Step-by-Step Guide
It’s crucial to understand that this multiplayer mode is still in beta. Developer ConcernedApe acknowledges its experimental nature and has intentionally kept it hidden due to potential bugs and glitches. Proceed with caution, and if you’re ready to embrace the beta experience, follow these steps:
Step 1: Access the Title Screen
Navigate to the Stardew Valley title screen on your mobile device. This is the initial screen you see upon launching the game.
Step 2: Input the Secret Code
A specific sequence of directional taps unlocks the hidden feature. Using the on-screen controls, tap the arrows in this precise order:
Up, Up, Down, Down, Left, Right, Left, Right. Finally, tap the “?” icon located in the bottom-right corner of the title screen.
Step 3: Reveal the Co-op Button
Exit the “?” screen. Upon returning to the home screen, you should now see a new “Co-op” button. This confirms successful activation of the multiplayer feature.
Step 4: Join or Host a Game
The “Co-op” button offers two options: “Join” and “Host.” Choose “Host” to start a new multiplayer farm, or “Join” to connect to an existing farm hosted by another player.
Connecting to a Multiplayer Game
Joining a multiplayer game requires the host’s IP address. If hosting, you’ll need to start your farm before others can connect using your IP.
Finding Your IP Address
Locating your IP address varies slightly depending on your operating system:
- iOS: Go to Settings > Wi-Fi. Tap the “i” icon next to your connected Wi-Fi network, and your IP address will be displayed.
- Android: Go to Settings > Network & internet > Internet. Tap the gear icon next to your Wi-Fi network, and your IP address will be listed.
Currently, all players must be on the same local network to connect. Long-distance multiplayer is not supported in this beta version.
Conclusion: Embracing the Future of Mobile Farming
While still in its early stages, mobile multiplayer in Stardew Valley offers an exciting glimpse into the future of the game. This hidden feature, accessed through a secret code, allows mobile players to finally experience the joys of cooperative farming. Keep in mind the experimental nature of this feature and the potential for bugs. With continued development and refinement, mobile multiplayer promises to enrich the Stardew Valley experience for mobile players worldwide.
