Stardew Valley Modding API, also known as SMAPI, is the mod loader for Stardew Valley. SMAPI is required for most types of Stardew Valley mods and can be used with the game to add new features and enhance gameplay. It is completely open source and allows for a greater degree of control over the game mechanics and visuals. With SMAPI, players can enjoy brand new game modes, new items, and new creatures to interact with, as well as improve the game's graphics.

Note: SMAPI handles the mods installed on Stardew Valley. Learn how to install mods here.

How to Install SMAPI on Stardew Valley (Steam)

1. Download the SMAPI mod here.

2. Unzip the file into a folder.

3. Launch install on Windows.bat.

4. Enter 1 to select the default Stardew Valley directory.

5. Enter 1 to install SMAPI.

6. Copy the launch options for Steam.

7. From the Steam Library, right-click Stardew Valley and select Properties.

8. Paste the launch options from step 6.

How to Install SMAPI on Stardew Valley (GOG Galaxy)

1. Create a new text file in Notepad.

2. Paste the following line:

start "" "C:\Program Files (x86)\GOG Galaxy\Games\Stardew Valley\StardewModdingAPI.exe"

3. Click File > Save As.

4. Navigate to the local Stardew Valley game directory.

5. Save the file as start.bat with the type set to All Files.

6. Minimize the file to use later in the tutorial.

7. From the Stardew Valley page on GOG Galaxy, select Options > Manage Installation > Configure.

8. Check the Custom executables/arguments option.

9. Choose Add another executable/arguments.

10. Select start.bat from step 6.

11. Click Default executable.

12. Hit Play.

Note: Launching Stardew Valley through GOG is only necessary to track playtime. The modded client can be launched through StardewModdingAPI.exe.

How to Install SMAPI on Stardew Valley (Xbox)

1. From the Xbox App, go to Stardew Valley and choose ... > Manage.

2. Select Browse next to the drive location.

3. Navigate to Stardew Valley\Content and copy the file path.

4. Download the SMAPI mod here.

5. Unzip the SMAPI .zip file.

6. Launch install on Windows.bat.

7. Enter 2 to select a file path.

8. Paste the file path from step 3 and hit enter.

9. Once the installation completes, return to the Stardew Valley/Content directory.

10. Rename StardewValley.exe to something new, such as StardewValley - Copy.

11. Create a copy of StardewModdingAPI.exe.

12. Rename the copy to StardewValley.exe.

13. Hit Play.