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Palworld: How to Join a Dedicated or Community Server

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To join a dedicated or community server in Palworld, launch the game, select “Join Multiplayer Game” from the title screen, then choose either “Community Servers” to browse official listings or “Invite Code” to enter a specific server code. You’ll need the server’s invite code or a direct IP address, and your character will start fresh unless the server allows character transfers.

Understanding Palworld Server Types

Palworld offers three main ways to play with others: a local co-op session (hosted by one player), a dedicated server (run on a separate machine, often rented), and community servers (public or private servers listed in-game). Dedicated servers run 24/7 without the host needing to be online, while community servers are simply dedicated servers that are publicly listed for anyone to join. The “Join Multiplayer Game” menu is the gateway to all of them.

Step-by-Step: Joining a Community Server

  1. Open Palworld and wait for the main menu to load.
  2. Click “Join Multiplayer Game.”
  3. Select “Community Servers” from the list of options.
  4. Browse the list of servers; each shows player count, ping, and settings like difficulty or PvP.
  5. Click a server and press “Join” (or double-click it) to connect.
  6. If the server is password-protected, enter the password when prompted.

If you have an invite code (a 6-digit code from the server owner), choose “Invite Code” instead and type it in. The game will then connect you directly to that server.

Joining a Dedicated Server by IP

Dedicated servers that aren’t listed publicly can still be joined if you have the IP address and port. From the “Join Multiplayer Game” screen, select “Dedicated Server” (or “Direct Connect” depending on your version). Enter the IP address and port in the format 123.45.67.89:8211 (the default port is 8211). If the server has a password, you’ll be asked for it after connecting. This method works for both rented servers and ones hosted by friends on their own hardware.

How to Find Good Community Servers

Not all community servers are equal. When browsing the list, look at these factors:

  • Ping: Lower ping (under 50ms) means smoother gameplay; higher ping causes lag and rubber-banding.
  • Player count: Servers near full may have long queues or resource competition; empty servers might be inactive.
  • Settings: Some servers boost XP rates or alter capture rates; check the server description or website for details.
  • Rules: Many servers have Discord communities with rules about PvP, building, or griefing. Read them before investing time.
  • Backups: Good servers back up data regularly; if a server wipes, you lose progress. Look for servers that mention backups.

Popular community servers often appear on Discord or forum listings, but the in-game browser is the most reliable source for active, up-to-date servers.

Common Issues and How to Fix Them

Joining a server can fail for several reasons. If you get a “Failed to join” error, try these in order:

  • Check the invite code: Codes are case-sensitive and expire after a few minutes. Ask the host for a fresh code.
  • Verify the IP and port: A typo in the IP or port will prevent connection. The default port is 8211, but some hosts change it.
  • Update the game: If your game version is older than the server’s, you won’t be able to join. Restart Steam to force updates.
  • Disable VPN: VPNs can interfere with connections. Turn it off and try again.
  • Check server status: The server might be down or restarting. Wait a few minutes and retry.
  • Firewall/port forwarding: If you’re hosting, ensure port 8211 (UDP) is open. For joining, your firewall might block outgoing connections; add Palworld to exceptions.

If the server is full, you’ll see a “Server is full” message. Some servers have queue systems; others just reject you—try again later or find another server.

Dedicated vs. Community Servers: Which Should You Choose?

Dedicated servers are typically private, run by individuals or groups for friends or communities. They offer more control over settings and are often password-protected. Community servers are public, listed in-game, and can be joined by anyone. If you want a persistent world with strangers, community servers are easier. If you want a controlled environment with friends, a dedicated server is better—but you’ll need to set it up or rent one. Both use the same joining process, just different entry points in the menu.

Costs and Requirements

Joining a server is free—you only need a copy of Palworld and an internet connection. Hosting a dedicated server can cost money if you rent from a provider, but you can also host on your own PC or a spare machine for free (though it requires decent hardware and a stable connection). Community servers are funded by their owners, so they’re free to join, but they may have donation links or premium perks. Always be cautious about servers that ask for real-money payments—they’re not official and could be scams.

Safety and Etiquette on Community Servers

Public servers can be chaotic. Here are some safety tips:

  • Never share your Steam account or password with anyone, even server admins.
  • Be wary of mods or downloads some servers require; only download from official sources.
  • Report griefers and cheaters to the server admin; most have Discord channels for this.
  • Read the rules—many servers ban building in certain areas or have PvP zones.
  • Don’t trust “free items” from strangers; they might be scams or exploits.

Etiquette-wise, don’t build near others without permission, don’t steal from bases, and be respectful in chat. Good behavior gets you invited to better communities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I join a Palworld server with my existing character?

No, characters are tied to the server they were created on. When you join a new server, you start from scratch. Some servers allow character transfers, but that’s a server-specific setting, not a game feature. If you want to keep progress, stick to one server.

Why can’t I find any community servers?

This usually happens if your game is outdated, your internet blocks the server list, or the server browser is temporarily down. Restart the game, check for updates, and try again later. Also, make sure you’re not using a VPN, as that can hide servers.

How do I get an invite code for a private server?

Invite codes are generated by the server owner and shared via Discord, Steam chat, or other messaging. They expire quickly, so join promptly. If you don’t have a code, you can’t join a private server—ask the owner for a new one.

What’s the difference between a community server and a dedicated server?

Community servers are dedicated servers that are publicly listed in the game’s browser. Dedicated servers can be private or public, but the term “dedicated” refers to the fact that they run on a separate machine, not a player’s client. In practice, community servers are just dedicated servers that are open to the public.

Can I join a server on Xbox or PlayStation?

Palworld is available on PC and Xbox, and crossplay is supported between those platforms. PlayStation support has been announced but not yet released. To join a server on Xbox, use the same “Join Multiplayer Game” menu. The process is identical.

How do I leave a server and join a different one?

Simply exit to the main menu (press ESC and select “Return to Title” or quit to menu). Then go through the join process again to select a new server. Your character on the old server remains there, and you can return anytime as long as it’s still active.

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