Stardew Valley enthusiasts have long been captivated by the character of Haley, a snarky and aspiring photographer in the game. However, queer players have taken their admiration for this bachelorette to new heights by creating edits set to the tune of Chappell Roan’s “Good Luck, Babe!” The song tells the story of a woman addressing her former lover, who is in denial about her feelings for the narrator and chooses to stay in a relationship with a man instead. In the game, many players assume Haley is interested in Alex, the more traditionally masculine bachelor, setting up a fictional love triangle reminiscent of the song’s narrative.
The romantic journey of this bachelorette mirrors the compulsory heterosexual themes present in Chappell’s catchy pop track, as showcased in various videos, including one by TikTok user piineapples. These fan-made edits circulating online depict Haley trying to deflect the farmer’s romantic gestures by spending time with Alex and enjoying drinks at Gus’s Saloon.
She will respond to Alex’s fictitious late-night messages, feign indifference to the farmer’s gifts, and, just like the lyrics of Chappell’s song, “Try to stop the world just to stop the feeling,” as illustrated in a similar edit by tea_ssc0 on TikTok.
The multitude of fan edits synchronized with Chappell’s latest track offer a fresh perspective on the enemies-to-lovers storyline that players have woven for Haley based on the limited in-game cutscenes and dialogues, especially for those playing as a female character. For some queer players, Haley’s initial aloofness may be interpreted as her internal struggle with her attraction to women.
As the farmer builds a relationship with Haley, she will inquire about Alex’s whereabouts for the day or request the farmer to pass on a message to him (even though he is just across the Saloon). Haley will mock the farmer’s earthy scent and dirty attire in their initial interactions. ConcernedApe has always ensured that Stardew Valley is a space where players can marry whomever they choose, regardless of gender. If players persevere through Haley’s frosty demeanor and opt to wed her, she will eventually embrace farm life (and the farmer) wholeheartedly.
2024-05-01 06:51:02
Originally posted on screenrant.com