At first glance, Stardew Valley may appear to be a simple and charming farming simulation game. However, beneath its pastoral surface lies an engaging combat system that significantly enhances gameplay, particularly within the depths of the Mines. Located in the Mountains, just northeast of the Carpenter’s Shop and west of the Adventurer’s Guild, the Mines become accessible on the fifth day of Spring in Year 1.
Your adventure begins with a cryptic letter, which triggers the removal of the debris blocking the entrance to the Mines. Armed with only a Rusty Sword, you’ll confront 120 increasingly perilous levels in your quest for treasure and glory.
A Comprehensive Guide to Navigating the Mines in Stardew Valley
Your initial weapon, the Rusty Sword, may feel inadequate, but don’t be discouraged. Upon reaching Floor 20, you will find the Steel Smallsword—an upgrade that enhances your combat capabilities significantly. For those looking for a greater challenge, consider hunting down the Insect Head by defeating 80 cave insects; you can also purchase an additional one from Marlon for 10,000g. This weapon delivers fast strikes, ensuring you can progress to Floor 90 with ease.
If luck is on your side, there’s the chance to fish up a Neptune's Glaive, a rare but powerful weapon that provides a robust option if the insect hunt doesn’t appeal to you. Upon reaching Floor 90, be prepared to acquire the Obsidian Edge, another formidable weapon known for its significant damage and critical hit bonuses, making your journey downwards less daunting.
For the ultimate combat experience, aim to acquire the impressive Galaxy Sword. To do this, you will first need access to the Calico Desert and a Prismatic Shard. Once you have the shard, head over to the Three Pillars, and you’ll be equipped with one of the strongest weapons in the game.
Yet, combat isn’t the only challenge the Mines present. Each floor serves as a unique puzzle, filled with rocks, monsters, and dirt patches. Your goal is to locate a ladder that allows you to descend, which can be accomplished by smashing rocks or defeating enemies. Remember, defeating foes doesn’t drain your energy, so there are times when it’s more advantageous to wield your sword than your pickaxe. Notably, infested floors require you to eliminate all enemies before access to the ladder is granted, and occasionally, you might encounter a peculiar situation where the ladder appears prematurely.
The Mines are also a treasure trove of valuable resources, including ores, geodes, artifacts, and the essential Cave Carrots. Be sure to stock up on food and carry some bombs to expedite your exploration. Keep a close eye on both the clock and your health bar—fainting from exhaustion or exceeding the 2:00 AM limit can result in a loss of up to 1,000g.
While items lost upon fainting can sometimes be retrieved from Marlon at the Adventurer’s Guild, you can only recover one item or stack at a time—and it may not be the item you hoped for. Therefore, it’s prudent to avoid fainting whenever possible. Additionally, remember to unlock the Minecart by completing the Boiler Room Bundles or opting for the JojaMart route, as this feature will make your return trips significantly more efficient.