Solving a Stardew Valley Routing Problem with Graph Theory & Python

An exploration of shortest path and minimum spanning tree algorithms for a “real world” use case

Introduction

In the video game Stardew Valley, growing crops is a great way to generate revenue and produce artisan goods like wines, pickles and jellies. I have a 12x10 patch of crops in my greenhouse that I consistently plant and harvest. Recently I got obsessed with the idea of optimising my harvesting route with graph theory.

algorithms editors pick graph graph-theory minimum-spanning-tree python routing theory valley