sdv-ui-layout

The sdv-ui-layout skill is designed to assist developers and designers in creating, adjusting, and validating user interface layouts for Stardew Valley menus. It addresses common challenges such as inconsistent spacing, misaligned elements, and trial-and-error positioning by providing a structured approach to UI layout. By using this skill, users can focus on semantic design and anchor-based positioning rather than relying on hardcoded coordinates, ensuring more maintainable and visually consistent interfaces.

Key features of sdv-ui-layout include a step-by-step design workflow that emphasizes conceptual layout diagrams, semantic positioning, and the definition of layout constants for standard spacing, button sizes, and element dimensions. The skill promotes anchor-based positioning, where elements are placed relative to other components instead of absolute coordinates, reducing layout errors. Additionally, it includes validation checks for bounds, overlaps, gamepad navigation, and multiple resolutions, helping developers catch potential issues before testing in-game. Standard Stardew Valley UI conventions, such as button and tab sizes, are also integrated to maintain consistency with the game's design language.

This skill is particularly useful for mod developers, UI designers, and anyone working within the Menus/ directory of Stardew Valley who needs to design or refine menus. Typical use cases include creating new menu layouts, adjusting existing interfaces for better spacing and alignment, designing category selectors and action buttons, and ensuring cross-resolution compatibility. By following the structured workflow provided by sdv-ui-layout, users can streamline UI development, reduce visual errors, and improve the overall player experience.