Gus, the owner of the Stardrop Saloon, is one of the friendliest and most beloved characters in Stardew Valley. Building a strong friendship with Gus not only gives players insight into his kind-hearted personality but also rewards them with helpful gifts, recipes, and even a jukebox to enjoy on the farm.
Befriending Gus: Tips and Strategies
Gift Guide
Gus appreciates thoughtful gifts, and players can strengthen their bond by offering him items he loves or likes. Remember, gifting on his birthday (Summer 8) gives 8x the friendship points.
- Loved Gifts (+80 friendship points):
- Diamond
- Orange
- Cooked Dishes: Escargot, Tropical Curry, Fish Taco
- All universal loves
- Liked Gifts (+45 friendship points):
- Daffodil
- Truffle
- All universal likes except Coleslaw (includes artisan goods, most vegetables, flowers, and cooked dishes)
- Disliked Gifts (-20 friendship points):
- Salmonberry
- Wild Horseradish
- Coleslaw
- Holly
- Quartz
- All universal dislikes (e.g., fish, geodes, seeds)
- Hated Gifts (-40 friendship points):
- All universal hates (e.g., trash, fossils, monster loot)
Key Interactions and Friendship Events
Gus provides quests and participates in events that can significantly boost friendship.
- Winter 26: Fish Stew
Gus sends a letter asking for an Albacore to make stew.- Reward: 400g + 1 heart friendship.
- Year 2, Fall 6: Wanted: Lobster
Gus requests a Lobster for bisque.- Reward: 500g + 1 heart friendship.
- Year 2, Winter 19: Exotic Spirits
Gus asks for a Coconut to create tropical drinks.- Reward: 600g + 1 heart friendship.
- “Help Wanted” Board Quests
Gus may occasionally post random item requests. Completing these grants 150 friendship points. - Movie Theater Preferences
After unlocking the movie theater, players can take Gus to movies and pick concessions to increase friendship.- Loved Movies: The Miracle at Coldstar Ranch, Wumbus.
- Loved Concessions: Cappuccino Mousse Cake, Panzanella Salad, Stardrop Sorbet, Truffle Popcorn.
Heart Event: Financial Struggles
At 4 hearts (and Pam at 2 hearts), players can witness a touching scene at the saloon:
- Gus reveals his financial struggles but hesitates to ask Pam to pay her overdue tab.
- Players can choose a gentle or harsh approach:
- A gentle option convinces Pam to pay and increases friendship with Gus.
- A harsher option upsets Gus.
Friendship Perks
Building a strong relationship with Gus offers practical benefits:
- Mail Gifts
Gus occasionally sends cooked dishes in the mail, helping players replenish health and energy early in the game. - Recipes
- 3 Hearts: Salmon Dinner (+125 Energy, +56 Health)
- 7 Hearts: Cranberry Sauce (+125 Energy, +56 Health, +1 Mining)
- Mini Jukebox (5 Hearts)
At 5 hearts, Gus visits the player’s farm to gift a Mini Jukebox, allowing players to play their favorite music tracks while farming.
Stardew Valley 1.6 Update Changes
The latest update has slightly adjusted Gus’ gift preferences and introduced new festivals and mastery systems. Players should stay updated on these tweaks to maximize their friendship-building efficiency with Gus.
Befriending Gus adds a heartwarming layer to Stardew Valley and provides tangible in-game benefits that make every interaction worthwhile. With a bit of effort and thoughtful gifting, players can make Gus one of their closest friends in Pelican Town.