Stardew Valley: A Solo Development Story by Eric Barone

Introduction

• Games generally created by multiple teams
• Triple-A: hundreds of developers
• Indie teams: at least two developers
• Exception: Stardew Valley, entirely created by Eric Barone (ConcernedApe)

Eric Barone's Biography

• Graduated from the University of Washington Tacoma in 2011
• Rejected at several job interviews
• Decides to combine hobbies: video game development
• Influence of parents: tech-savvy father, artistic mother
• In adolescence: guitarist in bands, drawing at his job

Inspiration and Concept for Stardew Valley

• Fan of the Harvest Moon series
• Desire to create a Harvest Moon clone
• Decision to improve the series
• Initial plan: short project for Xbox Live Indie Games
• Expansion of the project and improvement of skills

Game Development

• Began with the player's avatar and basic mechanics
• Research for accuracy in crops and minerals
• Announcement on Steam Greenlight (September 2012)
• Help from Chucklefish as publisher (February 2013)
• Difficulties and delays in launch, community feedback

Design Philosophy

• Flexible and open game
• Unlimited content for endgame
• Emphasis on personal values: non-violence, community feelings
• Anti-capitalist and pro-community narrative

Development Tools Utilized

• Art: Paint.NET
• Programming: C# and Microsoft XNA framework
• Music and sound effects: Reason

Personal Challenges and Sacrifices

• Lifestyle and relationships affected
• Temporary jobs to cover expenses
• Health issues due to long working hours
• Considers himself an introvert and recluse

Strategies and Results

• Release on various platforms, including Tesla Arcade
• Great critical and sales success
• Positive community and close to players
• Constant updates and future game ideas

Conclusion

• Eric Barone: an example of dedication and success in indie development
• Positive impact and legacy in the video game world