Stardew Valley Mod Manager review
A free Windows manager for importing mods, switching presets and backing up saves.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
Stardew Valley Mod Manager is a free Windows desktop application for players who want to organize Stardew Valley mods alongside SMAPI. It supports installing mods from ZIP files, enabling, disabling and removing them, and saving named presets to switch between groups. Players can also install modpacks in .sdvmp format and use tools to back up and manage game saves. Its scope is focused on individual Windows players rather than broader mod management across platforms.
The workflow combines manual imports with checks for compatible mod updates. The manager can identify whether compatible mods are up to date and provide a download link when an update is available; it does not automatically update mods. Integration with SMAPI and Nexus Mods gives it a connection to the Stardew Valley modding ecosystem, while the manual-import model means it is not a centralized mod browser. This suits players comfortable choosing and downloading their own files, but is less suited to anyone seeking automatic updates or a hands-off installation process.
The free access and preset controls make it a practical fit for players who regularly switch mod combinations or want save backups close to their mod workflow. A built-in tool checks for updates to the manager itself. The official releases page lists May 1, 2024 as the latest release, so players who prioritize recent release activity may prefer to consider other options. Choose this manager for straightforward Windows organization of Stardew Valley mods and saves; look elsewhere if automatic mod updating is essential.
Stardew Valley Mod Manager pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Install mods from ZIP files or .sdvmp modpacks
- Save and load presets to switch groups of mods
- Check compatible mods for updates and manage save backups
- Where it doesn't
- Mod sources require manual import
- Automatic mod updates are not supported
- The latest listed release is dated May 1, 2024
Stardew Valley Mod Manager fact sheet, pricing and score →
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