Summary
The beloved farming simStardew Valleycontinues to expand its presence beyond gaming, as one player spotted a reference to the game in a USA Today crossword puzzle.Stardew Valleyhas recently offered a live concert series that has drawn in audiences outside the video game’s fandom, and now the indie title is getting recognition in even more unexpected ways.
Since it first launched in 2016,Stardew Valleyhas become a pillar of the life-sim video game genre and cemented its legacy as one of the best indie titles of all time. Over the years, fans have spotted a number of excitingStardew Valleyreferences in real life, ranging from menu items at cafes to handcrafted collectibles at small shops, and a recent crossword clue about the game has fans celebrating.
Stardew Valleyfan hoshluml spotted a reference to the farming sim game in the May 14, 2025 edition of the USA Today crossword puzzle. The clue was given for section 40-Across and requires puzzle-solvers to know a four-letter word that describes “items that can be smelted inStardew Valley.” Players will quickly be able to answer with the correct solution of “ores,” which can be purchased from the blacksmithClintor gathered in theMines inStardew Valley. These ores are then combined with coal and placed into aFurnacewhich then smelts the ores into metal bars. Mining and smelting play a major role inStardew Valley, as metal bars are needed to upgrade the player’s farmer character’s tools, including the Axe, Hoe, Watering Can, and Pickaxe. ForStardew Valleyfans, the crossword puzzle hint is very easy, but even non-gamers could use general knowledge of smithing to find the correct answer.
Stardew Valley Reference in USA Today Crossword Puzzle
A representative from USA Today, Nikol, responded to the Reddit post, thanking hoshluml for enjoying the crossword puzzle. Fellow fans were incredibly happy to see an indie game likeStardew Valleygetting recognition from a major media outlet, showcasing the title’s impact beyond the video game community. One commentor noted that the March 19 USA Today crossword puzzle also included a hint that referenced thehit indie gameBalatro, showing that many solo-developed titles likeStardew Valleycan have a big impact outside their own player base.
Indie games have been growing in popularity in recent years, and many have been delighted to seegames likeStardew Valleygetting their time in the spotlight beyond the realm of computers and consoles. As the farming title continues to develop its cultural presence, interested fans can stay tuned for more community shares and official updates forStardew Valley.
Stardew Valley
WHERE TO PLAY
You’ve inherited your grandfather’s old farm plot in Stardew Valley. Armed with hand-me-down tools and a few coins, you set out to begin your new life. Can you learn to live off the land and turn these overgrown fields into a thriving home? It won’t be easy. Ever since Joja Corporation came to town, the old ways of life have all but disappeared. The community center, once the town’s most vibrant hub of activity, now lies in shambles. But the valley seems full of opportunity. With a little dedication, you might just be the one to restore Stardew Valley to greatness!
