Troubleshooting SVE

Common Issues & Solutions

Issue Cause Fix
Game launches vanilla Not launching via SMAPI Start via SMAPI
Missing dependencies Outdated or absent Content Patcher Update/install dependencies
macOS blocked install Gatekeeper Allow app, re-run installer
Steam Deck not loading Wrong Proton prefix path Reinstall SMAPI in correct prefix

Detailed Troubleshooting Steps

SVE Not Loading

  • Check that you're launching through SMAPI, not the regular game
  • Verify SVE is in the correct Mods folder
  • Check SMAPI console for error messages
  • Ensure all dependencies are installed and up to date
  • Try removing other mods temporarily to isolate conflicts

SMAPI Console Errors

  • "Mod requires Content Patcher": Install Content Patcher from Nexus Mods
  • "Mod is outdated": Update the mod to the latest version
  • "Missing dependency": Check the Dependencies↗ page for required mods
  • "Mod failed to load": Verify the mod files aren't corrupted, re-download if necessary

Performance Issues

  • Close other applications to free up memory
  • Reduce graphics settings in Stardew Valley
  • Check if other mods are causing conflicts
  • Ensure your computer meets the game's system requirements

Save Game Issues

  • Save won't load: Check SMAPI console for mod errors
  • Missing content: Ensure SVE and dependencies are properly installed
  • Corrupted save: Try loading a backup save from the Saves folder
  • New areas not appearing: Some SVE content requires story progression

Platform-Specific Issues

Windows

  • Run SMAPI as administrator if you get permission errors
  • Check Windows Defender isn't blocking SMAPI
  • Ensure .NET Framework is up to date

macOS

  • Allow SMAPI in System Preferences → Security & Privacy
  • Use Terminal to run SMAPI if the installer fails
  • Check that Stardew Valley is in the Applications folder

Linux

  • Ensure Mono is installed and up to date
  • Check file permissions on the Mods folder
  • Use the terminal to run SMAPI for better error visibility

Steam Deck

  • Switch to Desktop Mode for mod installation
  • Ensure SMAPI is installed in the correct Proton prefix
  • Create a custom launch script for Gaming Mode
  • Check that the Mods folder has write permissions

Getting Help

Before Asking for Help

  • Check the SMAPI console for specific error messages
  • Try the solutions on this page first
  • Make sure all mods and dependencies are up to date
  • Test with only SVE and its dependencies installed

Where to Get Support

  • Contact Us: If you ever need help, you can always reach out to us through our Contact Us↗ Page. Whether you have questions, run into an issue, or just want to share feedback, our team is here to assist you. You can use the contact form to send us a message directly, and we’ll do our best to respond as quickly as possible. If your query is urgent, please mention it so we can prioritize your request.
  • General Modding: Stardew Valley modding communities on Reddit and Discord

Tip: Re-check the Mods folder path and update dependencies after game updates. Most issues are caused by outdated mods or missing dependencies.