Stardew Valley is sort of becoming an esport as its developer sets a tournament with a $40k winner’s reward.
Those who had played the game will know Stardew Valley for many things. A title that is chill to play, an open-ended gameplay design, a plethora of compelling and rewarding tasks. etc. But if there is one thing that not many will attribute it with, it’s that of the game being a competitive multiplayer.
Sure, there are plenty about the game that players can compete against. Such as beating one another’s record for having the longest playtime or having the most developed farm. But these are hardly elements that make for an esport material. Until the game kind of is, but undeniably on criteria that is not any of the aforementioned.
Official Announcement
Via a tweet, developer ConcernedApe announced an upcoming competition based on his own creation. Said to be in collaboration with the popular streamer @UnsurpassableZ, the event is aptly dubbed the Stardew Valley Cup. A literal first of its kind, especially in its genre. Importantly, the tournament is described to be a “competition of skill, knowledge, and teamwork” and comes with a “prize pool of over $40k”.
While an occasion that will appeal to many existing fans, the event is strictly limited to the game’s “most dedicated players”. Inevitably, it insinuates well-known figures who have significant experience playing Stardew Valley. Which, to name a few, includes the likes of lilsimsie, Mathew McClesky, and ShakyGames. To be participated by a total of 16 players, all will be evenly split into four groups. Namely, Sandy’s Candies, Pierrie’s Cherries, Pam’s Yams, and Krobus’s Crocuses.
Game Mechanics Preview
As per video posted in his own YouTube channel, Unsurpassable Z sheds light on the mechanics of the competition. One of which would be the extent of the challenges that each team will fight against— “100” of them. That’s a hundred unique challenges that explore the many areas of Stardew Valley. However, as each challenge poses different level of trials, points are weighed according to their respective difficulty.
As hosts of the event, audiences can expect the appearances of both ConcernedApe and Unsurpassable Z. The duo of which will be playing the critical role of commentators during the event. Although, the $40k ultimate prize will come directly from the former’s pocket.
The Stardew Valley Cup will officially commence on September 4, 2021, at 12 PM ET/5 PM BST. Anyone seeking to see the commentated version may do so at UnsurpassableZ’s Twitch channel.
Image used courtesy of Unsurpassable Z/YouTube Screenshot