This guide covers how to set up your StarMade dedicated server on Legion Hosting, configure server settings, and connect players. StarMade is a voxel-based space sandbox game where players can build ships, stations, and explore a procedurally generated universe. For admin commands, server configuration, and player management, see StarMade Admin and Commands Guide.
1. First Start
- Log in to GPanel and select your StarMade server.
- Go to the Startup tab and review the configurable variables (see the table in Section 2).
- Return to the Console tab and click Start.
- Wait for the server to finish initializing. The console will display
SenableGameState(1)when the server is ready. - The first launch generates the configuration files and initializes the universe.
2. GPanel Startup Variables
The following variables are available in the GPanel Startup tab.
| Variable | Default | Description |
|---|---|---|
SERVER_JARFILE |
StarMade.jar |
The server JAR file to run. Typically does not need to be changed. |
The server also uses the allocated memory from your GPanel server configuration. StarMade benefits from generous memory allocation for larger universes and more players.
3. Server Configuration
StarMade uses a server.cfg file for server configuration, generated on first launch. The file is located in the server root directory.
server.cfgOpen this file using the Files tab in GPanel or connect via SFTP.
Key Settings
| Setting | Description |
|---|---|
WORLD_NAME |
The name of the universe/world. |
SERVER_NAME |
The server name shown in the server browser. |
SERVER_MESSAGE |
Welcome message shown to players on connect. |
MAX_CLIENTS |
Maximum number of connected players. |
PROTECTED_BY_PASSWORD |
Set to true to require a password. |
PASSWORD |
The server password (when password protection is enabled). |
SUPER_ADMIN_PASSWORD |
Password for gaining super admin access in-game. |
4. How Players Connect
- Launch StarMade.
- From the main menu, select Multiplayer.
- Click Connect to IP and enter the server IP and port from GPanel's Network tab.
- If the server is password-protected, enter the password when prompted.
- Choose your character name and connect.
5. Java Memory Settings
StarMade runs on Java and its memory usage is determined by your GPanel server allocation. The startup command uses -Xmx{{SERVER_MEMORY}}m, meaning the maximum heap size matches your allocated memory.
For optimal performance:
- Small servers (1-5 players): 2-4 GB RAM recommended.
- Medium servers (5-15 players): 4-8 GB RAM recommended.
- Large servers (15+ players): 8+ GB RAM recommended.
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Need Help?
If you run into issues with your StarMade server, open a support ticket and include your server IP, a description of the problem, and any relevant error messages from the GPanel console.
