Summary
References toStardew ValleyandBalatrohave popped up in the USA Today crossword puzzle. The surprising nods toStardew ValleyandBalatromay indicate just how far the games have come since their releases.
Stardew Valleyis an extremely popular gamedespite being an indie title. Over the years since its release, more and more players have found the charm of Pelican Town, its residents, and the overall title.Balatrois no slouch either, earning millions of dollars in short order. This popularity is probably part of why the games showed up in this crossword.
USA Today’s crossword puzzlefor March 19 includes a clue relating toStardew Valley,and one referencingBalatro. The crossword, which has the theme “Plot Twist” for the day, asks its players for a four-letter word for 40 Across, with a clue of “Items that can besmelted inStardew Valley.” While the puzzle might confuse those who’ve never been exposed to the game,Stardew Valleyfans' minds might immediately go to something like iron or gold. However, the answer is actually “ores.” Meanwhile, award-winning roguelike deck-builderBalatrogets a nod as well, with 59 Across being a"Balatrolevel" with four letters. The answer to that particular entry is “Ante.”
Games Appear as Trivia Puzzle References
As it turns out, this isn’t the first time that a major puzzle has featuredStardew Valley. Previously, the long-running game showJeopardyreferencedStardew Valley. In that case, players were asked what kind of place was inherited from their Grandpa inStardew Valley, which is, of course, a reference to the farm that players receive the deed to in the opening moments of the game. It’s worth pointing out that the crossword puzzle would be easier to answer for anyone unfamiliar with the game, as smelting ores doesn’t have to be connected toStardew. Comparatively, knowing about the farm without knowing anything about the game would make theJeopardyquestion much tougher.
On social media,Stardew ValleyandBalatrofans alike seem to be delighted at the nods to the two hit indie games. Some expressed surprise at the notion of indie games being featured in a well-known publication’s puzzle like this one, but others have pointed out that bothStardew ValleyandBalatrohave been nominated for and won numerous awards, including the Golden Joystick’s Breakthrough Award forStardew ValleyandBest Indie Game forBalatro. It might still pose a challenge for some, but chances are most gamers will at least recognize their titles.
