In a blog post over on StardewValley.net, creator Eric Barone has confirmed that work on the Stardew Valley multiplayer features is now complete. Next on his to-do list is bug fixing, and then preparations for the Stardew Valley multiplayer beta can begin.

The Stardew Valley multiplayer beta has a target release date of spring, which Barone is hoping he can still hit.

Here’s the full update, in addition to a brand new screenshot:

Hi everyone,

Just want to give you a quick fill-in on the status of the new update.

As you may know, I’ve always worked solo on Stardew Valley. However, for this multiplayer update I’ve had the help of Tom Coxon (of Chucklefish). He’s done all the network coding to turn Stardew Valley into a multiplayer game… truly an impressive feat, and one that would not be possible without his talent. He deserves a lot of credit for this — Thank you Tom!

NOW, HERE’S WHERE WE’RE AT:

Work on the new features is done, and we’ve sent all the new text off to be translated into the different languages. Meanwhile, we are working on bug fixes. Once we’ve received the translated text and integrated it back into the game, we’ll begin a serious QA phase involving thorough testing of all new features in both multiplayer and single player contexts. When that is finished, the update should be ready for a public beta. I am still shooting for a spring release for the beta.

When the beta gets closer to launch, I’ll fill you guys in on more specifics as to how multiplayer will work, as well as a more complete list of the new features in the update.

I’ll also be sure to let you guys know as soon as we’ve determined a more concrete timetable for release.

For now, here’s a screenshot of the new signs in action:

Thanks so much everyone for your patience while we get this update ready. It’s really going to be a “game changer” for Stardew Valley!

Are you looking forward to finally being able to play Stardew Valley with other (real) people? Let us know!

Source: Stardew Valley via GameRevolution