Rust, the multiplayer survival game, thrives on its community-driven servers. Hosting a Rust server can be an incredibly rewarding experience, but it requires careful planning and management. Here are 10 essential tips to ensure your Rust server is successful and attracts a loyal player base.
- Choose the Right Map Size
- Implement Queue Skip for VIPs
- Regularly Monitor and Manage Reports
- Maintain Consistent Wipe Schedules
- Optimize Server Performance
- Create a Friendly and Active Community
- Enforce Clear Rules
- Offer Incentives and Rewards
- Host Regular Events
- Gather and Act on Player Feedback
Choose the Right Map Size
Size matters...map size. Bigger maps mean more room to explore but fewer player encounters. If you have fewer players, go for a smaller map to keep things exciting and ensure players bump into each other more often.
Learn how to select your map size: How to Change the World Seed and Size on your Rust Server
Implement Queue Skip for VIPs
Waiting in long queues can be frustrating for players, especially during peak times. Implementing a queue skip plugin for VIP members can improve their experience and encourage more players to support your server. Just make sure it sticks to Rust's vanilla server rules.
See: How to Install Oxide Plugins on Your Rust Server
Regularly Monitor and Manage Reports
Player reports help keep your server friendly. Use a plugin that sends in-game F7 reports to your Discord so you can deal with issues quickly. This way, you can keep the server safe and fun for everyone. (F7 reports are sent directly to Facepunch, but using a plugin you can get a copy of them too).
Stick to a Regular Wipe Schedule
Server wipes are a crucial part of Rust. Players like knowing when the server will reset. Weekly wipes, like every Thursday, are a good choice. Regular wipes keep things fresh and stop veteran players from dominating.
Don't worry, you don't need to do it manually, see: How to Configure Automatic Wipes on your Rust Server
Optimize Server Performance
Smooth gameplay is key. Tweak settings, and watch performance metrics. Lag and high latency can drive players away, so make sure your server can handle the load, especially during peak times.
Build a Friendly Community
A friendly and active community is the heart of any great server. Get players to join your Discord, chat, and join events. A welcoming community attracts new players and keeps the regulars coming back.
Set Clear Rules
Clear rules keep things fair and fun. Make sure everyone knows the rules and enforce them consistently. Players stick around when they know cheating and toxic behavior won't be tolerated.
Offer Incentives and Rewards
Reward players for their loyalty and participation. Consider offering in-game rewards, VIP status, or other perks to regular players. These incentives can motivate players to return and invest more time in your server.
Host Regular Events
Regular events keep things exciting. Plan raids, building contests, or PvP tournaments to attract new players and challenge the regulars. Announce these events on Discord and social media to get more participation.
Listen to Player Feedback
Your community's feedback is golden. Ask for their input and make changes based on their suggestions. Whether it's tweaking settings, adding features, or fixing issues, showing you care about player input can build a strong, dedicated community.
Follow these tips to create a Rust server that players will enjoy. The key is balancing fun gameplay, maintaining a friendly community, and always improving based on feedback. Happy hosting!
About Shockbyte
Shockbyte is a leading game server host for Rust, Minecraft, ARK, and more.
Do you want to start your own Rust server? Click here to view our Rust server hosting plans.
