How do I install mods for Stardew Valley?
Summary
Q.How do I install mods for Stardew Valley?
A.Install the Stardew Modding API (SMAPI), put mods in the game's Mods folder, and launch the game through SMAPI; many mods also require Content Patcher and checking each mod’s requirements before use.
More info
Short answer: install the Stardew Modding API (SMAPI), download mods from a trusted site, put each mod folder into Stardew Valley/Mods, and always launch the game using the SMAPI launcher so mods load correctly. For most content packs you’ll also install Content Patcher first. See the SMAPI download page for installers and the quick player guide: SMAPI download page.
More detail and tips: after installing SMAPI, get mods from reputable sources (Nexus/CurseForge) and unzip each mod into its own subfolder inside Stardew Valley/Mods. Common required tools include Content Patcher on CurseForge. Before running, back up saves, check each mod’s “requirements” and compatibility with your Stardew version, and read installation notes. If something crashes, the SMAPI console/log shows errors and missing-dependency messages. If you plan to juggle many mods or profiles, consider a manager like Stardrop or the CurseForge app to simplify installs and updates. For modder documentation and advanced setup (macOS/Linux, .NET/runtime notes), consult the Stardew Wiki and SMAPI docs linked above.
