This guide explores how to befriend Marnie in Stardew Valley, a beloved character known for her animal affection and helpful nature. Gaining her friendship unlocks recipes and valuable resources, making her a worthwhile ally.
Marnie's kindness makes her a popular villager, but her frequent absence from her shop can be frustrating. This guide helps you build a strong relationship with her, regardless of your in-game goals.
Updated January 4, 2025, to reflect the 1.6 update.
Gifting Marnie:
Gifts are key to winning Marnie's affection. Remember, gifts on her birthday (Fall 18th) are worth 8x the friendship points!
Loved Gifts (80 friendship points):
- Universally Loved: Prismatic Shard, Pearl, Magic Rock Candy, Golden Pumpkin, Rabbit's Foot, Stardrop Tea. (See detailed acquisition tips below).
- Diamond (found in the Mines).
- Pink Cake (Wheat Flour, Egg, Sugar, Melon – recipe from Queen of Sauce, Summer 21, Year 2).
- Pumpkin Pie (Pumpkin, Wheat Flour, Milk, Sugar – recipe from Queen of Sauce, Winter 21, Year 1).
- Farmer's Lunch (Omelet, Parsnip – recipe unlocked at Farming Level 3).
Acquisition Tips for Universally Loved Gifts:
- Golden Pumpkin: Awarded annually for completing the Spirit's Eve maze.
- Rabbit's Foot: A chance drop from happy rabbits in your coop.
- Pearl: Reward for the Mermaid's Song at the Night Market or from Blobfish in Fish Ponds.
- Prismatic Shard: A rare gem; find it via various methods (see a dedicated guide for details).
- Magic Rock Candy: Purchased from the Desert Trader (Thursdays) for three Prismatic Shards (consider the opportunity cost).
- Stardrop Tea: Found in the Prize Machine, high-level Raccoon quests, Golden Fishing Chests, or as a reward for the Helper's Bundle.
Liked Gifts (45 friendship points):
- Eggs (except Void Eggs).
- Milk (from cows and goats).
- Quartz (found in the Mines).
- Flowers (except Poppies; Crocuses and Sweet Peas are good options).
- Fruit Tree Fruits (Apples, Apricots, Oranges, Peaches, Pomegranates, Cherries).
- Artisan Goods (Wine, Jelly, Pickles, Honey – excluding Oil and Void Mayonnaise).
- Other gemstones (Rubies, Emeralds, Topazes, etc.).
- Stardew Valley Almanac (Farming skill book – various acquisition methods, including the Bookseller).
Disliked & Hated Gifts:
Avoid giving Marnie Salmonberries, Seaweed, Wild Horseradish, Holly, crafting materials, raw fish, crafted items (fences, bombs, etc.), geodes, and geode minerals.
Movie Theater:
Inviting Marnie to the movies offers a friendship boost (up to 250 points). She enjoys all films, but loves The Miracle at Coldstar Ranch (Winter, odd-numbered years) and Ice Cream Sandwiches/Stardrop Sorbet.
Quests:
Completing Marnie's quests significantly increases friendship:
- Cow's Delight (Fall 3): Deliver Amaranth for 500g and a heart increase.
- Marnie's Request (3 hearts): Provide a Cave Carrot for 100 friendship points and a cutscene.
Friendship Perks:
Reaching certain friendship levels with Marnie rewards you with recipes (Pale Broth at 3 hearts, Rhubarb Pie at 7 hearts) and occasional gifts of hay.
This comprehensive guide ensures a successful friendship with Marnie, unlocking her valuable rewards and enriching your Stardew Valley experience.
