Eric « ConcernedApe » Barone, the mastermind behind Stardew Valley, recently took to the internet to shed light on a feature that has flown under the radar for many players during their gaming journeys. Amidst the plethora of updates and enriching content introduced in March to this beloved farm life simulator, Barone felt compelled to draw attention to a particular aspect that had eluded the notice of numerous enthusiasts.

Stardew Valley, since its inception in early 2016, has been renowned for its intricate mechanics and diverse systems, offering players a multitude of activities to immerse themselves in. While most aficionados discover the game’s nuances through gameplay, interactions with peers, or consultations with the game’s extensive wikis, ConcernedApe found it necessary to directly inform the community about a feature that had remained obscure to many.

In a tweet, Barone disclosed a valuable tip: hovering over an item in Stardew Valley’s inventory screen reveals whether it is still required for completing the game’s Community Center bundles. A pulsating tree-shaped icon within the inventory signifies the necessity of an item for an incomplete bundle. Completion of these bundles unlocks a plethora of rewards, ranging from seeds to farm equipment and consumables.

Barone emphasized that this feature had been present in the game prior to the latest 1.6 update, speculating that its existence might have eluded a significant portion of the player base. Indeed, many players admitted to being oblivious to this functionality despite investing substantial hours into the game. Conversely, some believed it to be common knowledge among enthusiasts.

In addition to unveiling this hidden feature, Stardew Valley’s Update 1.6 ushered in the Desert Festival, Trout Derby, and SquidFest mini fishing festivals. Furthermore, it introduced the Meadowlands Farm layout, providing players with a fresh starting experience featuring unique elements like Blue Grass and a river teeming with forest pond fish.

Subsequent to the release of Update 1.6, Barone issued two additional patches addressing various bugs and glitches. Prioritizing the resolution of issues stemming from the latest major update, Barone remains committed to ensuring the seamless experience of Stardew Valley before delving into his next endeavor, the highly anticipated Haunted Chocolatier, slated for a potential release in 2024.