This Stardew Valley guide explains how to maximize friendship with villagers. Building relationships is crucial for integrating into Pelican Town, whether aiming for friendship or romance. While talking and gifting are key, not all actions are equal.
The Heart Scale:
The in-game heart scale (accessed via the menu) shows friendship levels (hearts) with each NPC. Reaching certain heart levels unlocks events, mail, and dialogue options. However, the scale doesn't fully detail how friendship points are earned.
Friendship Points:
250 friendship points equal one heart. Interactions (talking, gifting) affect friendship. Positive actions earn points; ignoring or negative actions decrease them.
Boosting Friendship Gain:
The "Friendship 101" book (obtained from the Prize Machine or the Bookseller in Year 3) provides a permanent 10% friendship point bonus.
Point Values for Interactions:
- Talking: +20 points (or +10 if the NPC is busy). Not talking results in a friendship decrease (-2 points daily, -10 with a bouquet, -20 for spouse).
- Bulletin Board Deliveries: +150 points with the recipient.
- Gifting:
- Loved: +80 points
- Liked: +45 points
- Neutral: +20 points
- Disliked: -20 points
- Hated: -40 points
- Winter Star Festival: 5x points
- Birthdays: 8x points
Stardrop Tea:
This universally loved gift grants +250 points (+750 on birthdays/Winter Star). It's obtainable from the Prize Machine, Golden Fishing Chests, the Helper's Bundle, or from the raccoon.
Movie Theater:
Movie dates (+200 for loved movies, +100 for liked, concessions add +50/+25).
Conversations and Dialogue:
Dialogue choices can yield +10 to +50 points or decrease friendship. Heart Events can significantly impact friendship (+/-200 points).
Festivals and Events:
- Flower Dance: +1 heart (250 points) for dancing (requires 4 hearts).
- Luau: Soup contributions affect friendship (+120 for best, -100 for worst).
- Community Center (Bulletin Board Bundles): +500 points (2 hearts) with each non-dateable villager upon completion.
This comprehensive guide helps players cultivate strong relationships in Stardew Valley. Remember that consistent positive interactions are key to maximizing friendship levels.
