# Stardew Valley’s Secret Multiplayer Feature: A New Chapter for Mobile Farming
Following months of eager waiting, the significant update for *Stardew Valley*, version 1.6.9, has at last rolled out on Android and iOS platforms. This update introduces a myriad of new functionalities, but perhaps the most thrilling addition is the launch of a secret multiplayer mode that enables players to team up and explore one another’s farms, mirroring the experience found on desktop and console.
## What’s Included in the Update?
The *Stardew Valley* 1.6.9 update has been a highly anticipated upgrade for mobile players who have been longing to enjoy the multiplayer features available on other platforms. With this update, users can now participate in multiplayer sessions, collaborate, and experience the joys of farming together.
### How Does Mobile Multiplayer Function?
While the multiplayer option reflects the experience on desktop and consoles, there are some key differences for mobile users. The primary distinction is that the mobile multiplayer operates solely over IP. This means players must manually enter the IP address of the game they intend to join. This configuration is ideal for local networks and also permits connections from various devices beyond just smartphones.
According to the official *Stardew Valley* website, mobile multiplayer works similarly to its counterparts but does not include a farm discovery option. Players can connect exclusively via IP, which introduces a level of complexity but also flexibility, as mobile devices can link to PC-hosted farms.
### Activating Multiplayer Mode
Notably, the multiplayer feature is not enabled by default in the mobile version of *Stardew Valley*. To unlock this option, players must input a specific “secret” code on the title screen. This is accomplished by pressing the leaves surrounding the *Stardew Valley* logo in a designated sequence: up, up, down, down, left, right, left, right (↑ ↑ ↓ ↓ ← → ← →). Once the code is entered, players can see the “Co-op” button, just like on other platforms.
After activating the multiplayer mode, the game will assist in entering the IP address of the host device, ensuring a smooth joining process.
### Optimal Multiplayer Setup
The ideal scenario for mobile multiplayer involves linking a high-performance mobile device to a PC-hosted farm over a local network, ideally through Wi-Fi. This arrangement provides a smooth gaming experience, reduces latency, and enhances player collaboration.
### Conclusion
The introduction of a hidden multiplayer mode in *Stardew Valley* for mobile devices signifies a major advancement for the game, letting players connect with friends and family in a collective farming adventure. While the necessity to manually enter IP addresses may appear inconvenient, it facilitates imaginative connections across diverse devices. As players engage with this new feature, the allure of *Stardew Valley* continues to flourish, nurturing community and teamwork within the cherished farming simulator.
For further details on how to enable and use the multiplayer feature, players can visit the official *Stardew Valley* website or watch gameplay videos illustrating the process. Enjoy your farming!
