Stardew Valley

Can you play Stardew Valley on Mac?

Yes, you can play Stardew Valley on a Mac. As of 2026, Stardew Valley is a native Mac application. It runs directly on macOS without requiring any translation software or workarounds. The game is fully supported on all modern Macs, including those with Apple silicon chips.

Compatibility Status

Stardew Valley is a native macOS application. The developer, ConcernedApe, provides and maintains the Mac version directly. It is not a port managed by a third party. The game receives updates simultaneously with other platforms. This native support means it is designed to work with macOS system features and architecture.

The game supports macOS 10.14 Mojave and later versions. This includes macOS Sequoia, which is the expected 2025 release. You should ensure your Mac's operating system is up to date for the best compatibility.

Performance on Apple Silicon (M1, M2, M3, M4)

Performance on Macs with Apple silicon chips is excellent. The game is not graphically demanding, so it runs very well on this hardware.

• M1 Macs: The game runs without any issues. You can expect a stable 60 frames per second at maximum graphical settings. Even the base M1 chip in a MacBook Air handles the game perfectly.
• M2, M3, and M4 Macs: Performance is flawless. These chips provide more than enough power for Stardew Valley. The game will run at its maximum frame rate without using significant system resources. This leads to cool, quiet operation and long battery life on laptops.
• General Notes: The game is optimized for Apple silicon. It runs using Rosetta 2 translation on earlier M1 models, but this has no noticeable impact on performance. On newer models, it likely runs as a native ARM application. In both cases, the experience is smooth.

Installation Steps

You can purchase and install Stardew Valley from several digital storefronts. The two primary sources are the Mac App Store and Steam. The game is the same on both platforms, but your save files and multiplayer connectivity are tied to the storefront you choose.

1. Purchase the game from either the Mac App Store or Steam.
2. Download and install the application through the storefront's client.
3. Launch the game from your Applications folder (Mac App Store) or Steam Library.
4. The game will create necessary save file directories on your first launch.

If you purchase on GOG, you will receive a standalone installer. Double click the downloaded .pkg file and follow the on screen instructions to install it to your Applications folder.

Tips for the Best Experience

• Use a Controller: While keyboard and mouse work fine, the game feels more natural with a controller. Any supported macOS controller, like a PlayStation or Xbox pad, will work.
• Manage Save Files: Your saves are stored in your user folder. Regularly back up the StardewValley folder found in ~/Library/Application Support. This protects your farm from accidental loss.
• Multiplayer: For cross platform multiplayer, all players must use the same storefront version. Steam players can only play with other Steam players. Mac App Store players can only play with other Mac App Store players.
• Mods: Modding is possible on Mac. It involves manually placing files in the game's content folder. The process is the same as on Windows. Always download mods from trusted sources and ensure they are updated for your game version.

Common Issues

• Launch Crashes on macOS Sequoia (or newer): If the game crashes on launch after a macOS update, it is usually a permissions issue. Go to System Settings, then Privacy and Security. Check for any prompts related to "Stardew Valley" or "Steam" that need approval.
• Black Screen on Launch: This can happen with certain mods or if game files are corrupted. Try verifying the game files through Steam (right click the game in your Library, select Properties, then Installed Files, and click Verify). For the Mac App Store version, you may need to reinstall.
• Controller Not Detected: Ensure the controller is connected via USB or Bluetooth before launching the game. Some controllers may need to be configured in Steam's Big Picture Mode controller settings if you are using the Steam version.
• Slow Performance on Old Intel Macs: The game is well optimized, but very old Intel Macs from before 2012 might struggle. Lowering the resolution in the game's settings menu can help improve frame rate.
• Multiplayer Connection Problems: Ensure all players are on the exact same game version. Check your local firewall settings to ensure the game is allowed to communicate over your network.