Games You Can Host Your Own Server For

You can host your own server for a wide range of games, from indie titles like Minecraft and Terraria to classic shooters like Counter-Strike and Team Fortress 2, as well as many open-source games like OpenTTD and Minetest. This article covers the most popular self-hostable games, what you need to run them, and how to choose the right one for your hardware and skill level.

Why Host Your Own Server?

Hosting your own server gives you full control over the game environment: you set the rules, install mods, invite only friends, and never pay a monthly rental fee. It also lets you learn about networking, server administration, and game configuration—skills that transfer to other tech projects. The main trade-offs are the time spent on setup and the need for a reliable internet connection with a public IP address (or a VPN service like Hamachi or Tailscale).

Popular Games That Support Self-Hosting

Here is a list of well-known games that let you run your own server, either officially or through community tools:

• Minecraft – Java Edition and Bedrock Edition both have official server software. Java is the most flexible for mods; Bedrock is better for cross-play with consoles and mobile.
• Terraria – Comes with a dedicated server executable (TerrariaServer.exe) for Windows, Linux, and macOS. It supports up to 16 players and is easy to set up.
• Valheim – A survival game that includes a dedicated server tool on Steam. You can run it on the same machine or a separate one.
• Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS:GO) – Now replaced by Counter-Strike 2, but the dedicated server files are still available via SteamCMD for both games. You can host classic competitive or casual matches.
• Team Fortress 2 – Also uses SteamCMD to download the server files. It’s free to play, so anyone can host a public server without owning the game.
• Left 4 Dead 2 – Supports dedicated servers via SteamCMD, allowing custom campaigns and versus modes.
• Factorio – The headless server is available for Linux and Windows. It’s popular for long-running multiplayer factories.
• OpenTTD – An open-source remake of Transport Tycoon Deluxe. It has built-in server hosting and is very light on resources.
• Minetest – A free, open-source Minecraft-like game with its own server software. It’s highly customizable and runs on low-end hardware.
• ARK: Survival Evolved – Offers dedicated server tools via SteamCMD, but the game is heavy and requires a powerful machine for many players.

Many other games, especially older ones like Quake III Arena, Unreal Tournament, and Half-Life, also have dedicated server binaries that are still downloadable and playable.

How Server Hosting Works

When you host a server, your computer acts as the authoritative source of game state. Players connect to your IP address and port (usually 27015 for Source games, 25565 for Minecraft). The server software runs a headless version of the game—no graphics, just the simulation and network handling. You can run it on the same PC you play on, but for better performance and uptime, a separate machine or a VPS (virtual private server) is often used.

Key components you need:

• Dedicated server software – Usually downloaded from the game’s official site or via SteamCMD.
• A public IP or port forwarding – If you host from home, you must forward the game’s port on your router to your computer’s local IP.
• A static IP or dynamic DNS – So players can find you consistently.
• Bandwidth – Upload speed matters more than download. Most games need 5-10 Mbps per player for smooth play.

How to Choose the Right Game to Host

Your choice depends on your hardware, internet, and what your friends want to play. Consider these factors:

• Player count – Minecraft and Terraria support up to 10-20 players on a modest PC; ARK and Space Engineers need more CPU and RAM.
• Mod support – If you love mods, Minecraft Java, Terraria (with tModLoader), and Factorio have huge modding communities.
• Resource usage – Lightweight options like OpenTTD, Minetest, and Terraria run on a Raspberry Pi or an old laptop. Heavier games like ARK and Conan Exiles need a modern gaming PC.
• Skill level – Some servers are one-click (Terraria), others require command-line knowledge (CS:GO, Factorio).
• Community and longevity – Minecraft and CS:GO have massive player bases, so you’ll always find people to join.

If you’re new, start with Terraria or Minetest. If you want a challenge, try setting up a Source game with SteamCMD.

Common Problems and How to Solve Them

Even experienced hosts run into issues. Here are the most frequent ones:

• Port forwarding not working – Double-check your router’s port forwarding rules, and make sure your computer’s firewall allows the game’s port. Test with a tool like canyouseeme.org.
• High ping or lag – Usually due to insufficient upload bandwidth or a distant server. Move your server closer to players or reduce the max player count.
• Server crashes – Check the logs for errors. Often it’s a mod conflict or memory issue. Allocate more RAM if possible.
• Can’t connect from the same network – Some routers don’t support NAT loopback. Use your local IP to connect from inside your home, and the public IP for outside players.
• Outdated server software – Always update to the latest version to avoid security issues and compatibility problems with the game client.

Costs and Alternatives

Self-hosting is free if you use existing hardware, but you pay for electricity and internet. A dedicated machine running 24/7 can add a few dollars to your monthly electric bill. If you don’t want to deal with hardware, you can rent a VPS from providers like DigitalOcean or Linode for about $5-20 per month, or use a game-server hosting company like Aternos (free but limited) or Nitrado (paid).

Another alternative is peer-to-peer hosting, where one player’s game client acts as the server (like in Stardew Valley or Don’t Starve Together). This is easier but ties the server to that player’s connection and availability.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a powerful computer to host a game server?

It depends on the game. Lightweight games like Terraria and OpenTTD run on a Raspberry Pi or an old laptop. Heavier games like ARK or Space Engineers need a modern multi-core CPU and at least 8 GB of RAM. Check the game’s official server requirements before you commit.

Can I host a server and play on the same computer?

Yes, for most games. Running the server in the background will use some CPU and RAM, so you may see lower FPS. For games with heavy servers (like ARK), it’s better to use a separate machine or a VPS.

Is it legal to host a server for a game I don’t own?

For most games, the server software is free to download and use, but you may need to own the game to join as a player. For example, CS:GO server files are free, but you need the game to play. Always check the game’s EULA—some games prohibit public servers without permission.

How do I make my server public so strangers can join?

You need to forward the game’s port on your router, get your public IP, and optionally list your server on a public server browser (like the one in Minecraft or Steam). Make sure your firewall allows inbound connections. For security, consider using a whitelist or password.

What is SteamCMD and why do I need it?

SteamCMD is a command-line tool from Valve that downloads dedicated server files for many games (CS:GO, TF2, ARK, etc.). It’s free and works on Windows, Linux, and macOS. You use it by typing commands like app_update 740 for CS:GO. It’s the standard way to get official server binaries for Valve games.

Can I host a server on a Raspberry Pi?

Yes, for light games like Minecraft (Java, with limited players), Terraria, OpenTTD, and Minetest. The Pi’s ARM processor and 2-8 GB RAM are enough for small groups. Heavier games won’t run well.

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