Exploration Template | Stardew Valley

Stardew Valley + Children's Mental Health

an exploration by PsychChild

Stardew Valley is an easy-going simulation game where players create a character who takes over their grandpa’s farm in search for more meaningful connections with people and nature. Characters live the simple life as they work on rebuilding the farm from the ground up while making friends with the other members of the Stardew Valley community.

WHAT WE LIKE

• Management gameplay encourages players to practice managing their time, money, and energy
• Emphasizes positive values of hard work, patience, friendships, and community.
• Character creation and open-ended gameplay allows for creative expression in how players approach the game.

• Splitscreen cooperative gameplay on consoles allows opportunities for parents and children to play together and discuss themes

CONTENT ADVISORY

• Mild cartoon violence and gambling
• Depictions of tobacco and alcohol use; player can choose to make, sell, and drink alcohol (though shows negative effects if drunken).
• One character experiences alcohol use and suicidal ideation, though players are encouraged to help him through these concerns
• Gameplay includes engaging in romantic relationships with options for marriage and divorce, which may call for some parental guidance.

CONNECTION Qs

RISK ASSESSING Qs

• What do you think of Shane's character? What sort of things was he having a hard time with?
• Have you had your character try alcohol? What happened?

• What did you name your character?
• Who are you making friends with? What do you like about them?
• What do you like to do during your day in Stardew?

MORE VIDEOS

More Videos

Video #1

Stardew Valley and Mental Health Therapy for Nerds

Stardew Valley ReviewIGN

OTHER RELEVANT STUFF

Product Website

Common Sense Media

XYZ

XYZ

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