ConcernedApe’sStardew Valleyis easily one of the best simulation RPGs out there, despite being released over seven years ago. With its surprisingly complex in-game community and engaging gameplay,Stardew Valleysuccessfully marries the more straightforward mechanics of a farming sim with the nuanced aspects of a role-playing game, so it’s no wonder that it achieved critical acclaim upon its release. The lovingly-crafted game has many layers, but one of its most beloved elements is the relationships players can form with their fellow townsfolk.
Cozy gaming has experienced a rise in popularity in the years sinceStardew Valleywas first launched, with players enjoying the harmless repetition of tasks and stress-free adventures of low-stakes gameplay.Stardew Valleycertainly scratches that itchwith its farm management focus and bucolic setting, but it can surprise gamers with the depth of some of its features and the maturity within the way some of its friendships and relationships unfold. Players can choose to marry one of the handful of single NPCs during the course of their game, and some of these relationships can blossom into touching, relatable, and memorable pairings. However, every gamer will have their favorite go-to romance option, and some are considered superior to others.
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S-Tier
Abigail- While she may not be everyone’s favorite,Abigail is undoubtedly a unique and interestingStardewcharactercompared to some of her neighbors,and there are even some fun fan theories about her parentage too. She’s feisty, independent, and a nerd at heart – something that undoubtedly endears her to many gamers. She will even fight side by side with players as they explore the treacherous levels of the mine, and as a spouse she certainly gives top-tier gifts such as Cherry Bombs and Void and Solar Essence.
Leah- Not only isLeah one of the easiestStardewcharacters to get to knowthanks to her love of foraged gifts, but she also slots into the farming lifestyle nicely after gamers marry her. Her artistic sensibility can set her apart from other NPCs, but she’s sweet and has an engaging backstory full of relatable self-doubt and a desire for independence. Her gifts might not be the most exotic, but she brings warmth and creativity to the farm.
Emily- An eccentric character,Emily is a great choice forStardew Valleyplayerswho are looking for something a little different. Her blue hair makes her stand out, and she’s full of zeal and really loves to get the most out of life, contrasting with some of the more heartbreaking tales around town. Once married, she’ll bestow her partner with a wide range of gifts, and she’s the only way to gain the Red Plate recipe which gives a temporary max energy boost.
A-Tier
Maru- With a love of all things science-related,Maru is another unique character. While the gifts she truly loves can be a little pricey and hard to come by, her ten-heart event is one of the best in the game and reflects her fascinating interests. She’s also an extremely useful spouse thanks to the value of the gifts she’ll give, making her a sensible choice for those focused on what they can get out of their romantic partner.
Shane- Although he might be one of the more tragic figures inStardew Valley, Shane’s backstoryand character arc are well-crafted and surprisingly emotional. He starts off a little hostile, but if players put in the work it’s definitely worth it. With a nuanced journey through depression and the effects it can have not only on an individual but also the people around them, Shane’s heart events are touching and offer something very different to the other bachelors and bachelorettes.
Harvey- Some might considerHarvey a safe and slightly traditional choice, but having the town doctor as a husband has its advantages. Harvey might turn his nose up at some of the tastier foods gamers can get their hands on thanks to their less-than-healthy benefits, but he also likes a wide range of gifts and can be easy to get to know. Sweet and straightforward, Harvey is a good choice for those looking for a lovely if slightly dorky life partner.
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B-Tier
Sebastian-Stardew Valleyis full of characters who are on their own personal journeys, andSebastian is certainly one of them. At the start, gamers can find him withdrawn and mysterious, and maybe even a little morose. However, once players get to know him and peel back his introverted layers, he does start to open up. With his motorcycle, love ofDungeons & Dragons, and hidden intensity, Sebastian is actually kinda cool.
Penny- Penny is one of the residents inStardew Valleywith a complicated family history. Living with heralcoholic mother Pamhas meant that life hasn’t been easy for her, but this hasn’t stopped Penny from being a kind and caring person who loves her role as a teacher for Pelican Town’s youths. She may not provide the best gifts, but her wholesome personality and touching story make up for it.
Elliott- If players were picking partners on their hair alone, Elliott would probably be near the top of the list. Majestic mane aside,Elliott isn’t really the most exciting romance inStardew Valley. While other NPCs go through some pretty significant character growth, the elusive author remains relatively unchanged throughout the game, but his writing talent adds a little something extra.
C-Tier
Sam- Although he’s a friendly and likable addition toPelican Town, Sam doesn’t really stand out among the other marriage candidates. The human equivalent of an overenthusiastic puppy, Sam is easily pleased and unproblematic. His marital gifts aren’t particularly special either, so most players usually end up passing on Sam as a romantic option.
Alex -In some ways the cliched jock character,Stardew Valley’s Alexis sometimes in danger of being a bit one-note. Like Sam, he’s inoffensive and easy to please, but this doesn’t always make him very interesting. However, he is lovable and really sweet, which will still endear him to some players.
Haley- She might seem like a slightly snobby and shallow option who represents all the worst blonde stereotypes, butHaley does have some redeeming qualities. Her love of photography is an interesting dimension that is gradually revealed, and after gamers put in the graft, they can expose her caring side as well.
Stardew Valleyis available now for Mobile, Nintendo Switch, PC, PS4, PlayStation Vita, and Xbox One.
