Ground Branch is a tactical first-person shooter focused on realistic CQB and special operations gameplay. This guide covers setting up and configuring your dedicated Ground Branch server on Legion Hosting, including startup variables, server configuration, game modes, map selection, and how to connect. For admin commands and mod support, see Ground Branch Admin Commands.
First Start in GPanel
Before configuring your server, you need to perform an initial startup so the server downloads all required game files and generates its default configuration.
- Log in to GPanel.
- Select your Ground Branch server from the server list.
- Click the Start button to launch the server for the first time.
- Wait for the console to show that the server has fully started. The first launch will download all game files, which may take several minutes.
- Once the server finishes loading and displays a message indicating it is ready for connections, Stop the server so you can configure it.
Startup Variables
GPanel provides startup variables that control fundamental server parameters. Navigate to the Startup tab in GPanel to configure these.
| Variable | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|
SERVER_NAME |
Name displayed in the server browser | Ground Branch Server |
MAX_PLAYERS |
Maximum number of players allowed | 8 |
SERVER_PASSWORD |
Password required to join (leave blank for public) | blank |
Server Configuration
Ground Branch uses an INI-based configuration file to control detailed server settings. After the first start, the server configuration file is generated at:
GroundBranch/ServerConfig/Server.iniYou can edit this file through GPanel's File Manager or via SFTP.
Server Identity Settings
[/Script/GroundBranch.GBGameMode]
ServerName=My Legion Ground Branch Server
ServerMOTD=Welcome to our Ground Branch server!
MaxPlayers=8
ServerPassword=Server Name and Password
The ServerName setting controls what appears in the in-game server browser. The ServerPassword field can be left empty for a public server or set to require a password for entry. Players will be prompted for the password when attempting to join.
Max Players
Ground Branch supports small-team tactical gameplay. The default is 8 players, but you can increase this depending on your server resources. Most game modes are designed for teams of 4-8 players, though larger player counts work well for PvP modes.
Game Mode Configuration
Ground Branch offers several distinct game modes, each suited to different play styles. The game mode is selected from the in-game mission planning screen or configured as a default in the server config.
| Game Mode | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Terrorist Hunt | Co-op / PvE | Players work together to clear AI-controlled enemies from the map. The classic co-op experience. |
| Intel Retrieval | Co-op / PvE | Locate and retrieve intel items scattered across the map while engaging hostile AI. |
| Team Elimination | PvP | Two teams compete to eliminate all members of the opposing team. No respawns per round. |
| Deathmatch | PvP | Free-for-all or team-based deathmatch with respawns. |
| Uplink | PvP | One team defends a laptop objective while the other attempts to access it. |
Map Selection
Ground Branch features a variety of maps ranging from close-quarters indoor environments to open outdoor areas. Maps are selected from the in-game mission planning screen.
| Map | Setting | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Small Town | Urban village | Mix of indoor and outdoor combat, good for all modes |
| Tanker | Cargo ship | Tight corridors, CQB-focused |
| Power Station | Industrial facility | Multi-level structure with open surroundings |
| Arena | Training compound | Compact, fast-paced engagements |
| City | Urban center | Large map with streets, alleys, and buildings |
| Depot | Supply depot | Mid-size map with cover and sightlines |
| Run Down | Abandoned buildings | Dilapidated structures with multiple entry points |
Round and Match Settings
You can adjust round behaviour in the server configuration file:
[/Script/GroundBranch.GBGameMode]
# Round time limit in seconds (default: 600 = 10 minutes)
RoundTime=600
# Time between rounds in seconds
PostRoundTime=15
# Number of rounds per mission
RoundsPerMatch=5
# Friendly fire (true = enabled)
FriendlyFire=trueNetwork Settings
Ground Branch uses Unreal Engine networking. The server automatically handles port allocation through GPanel. You can view your assigned ports on the Network tab in GPanel.
How to Connect
Find your server's IP address and port on the Network tab in GPanel. See How to Find Your Server IP and Port for details.
Via the In-Game Server Browser
- Launch Ground Branch from Steam.
- From the main menu, click Multiplayer.
- Select Server Browser.
- Use the search or filter options to locate your server by name.
- Click on your server and select Join. If a password is set, you will be prompted to enter it.
Via Direct Connect
- From the main menu, click Multiplayer.
- Select Direct Connect (or open the console with `).
- Enter your server IP and port in the format
IP:PORTusing the values from GPanel. - Click Connect.
Related Articles
- Ground Branch Admin Commands
- How to Find Your Server IP and Port
- How to Upload Files via SFTP
- Getting Started with Your New Server
If you run into any issues not covered here, please open a support ticket and our team will be happy to help.
