LinuxCommandLibrary

minetestserver

Run a Minetest game server

TLDR

Start the server

$ minetestserver
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List available worlds
$ minetestserver --world list
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Load the specified world
$ minetestserver --world [world_name]
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List the available game IDs
$ minetestserver --gameid list
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Use the specified game
$ minetestserver --gameid [game_id]
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Listen on a specific port
$ minetestserver --port [34567]
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Migrate to a different data backend
$ minetestserver --migrate [sqlite3|leveldb|redis]
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Start an interactive terminal after starting the server
$ minetestserver --terminal
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SYNOPSIS

minetestserver [options]

PARAMETERS

--help
    Display help information and exit.

--version
    Display version information and exit.

--config
    Specify the configuration file to use (default: minetest.conf).

--world
    Specify the world name to load.

--address


    Specify the IP address to bind to (default: 0.0.0.0).

--port
    Specify the port to listen on (default: 30000).

--logfile
    Specify the log file to write to.

--pidfile
    Specify the PID file to write to.

--daemon
    Run the server as a daemon (in the background).

--gameid
    Specify the game ID to use.

--no-curses
    Disable curses output (useful for headless servers).

DESCRIPTION

The `minetestserver` command starts and manages a Minetest server instance. Minetest is a free open source voxel game engine, and `minetestserver` allows you to host a multiplayer world for others to join. The server manages world generation, player data, network communication, and mod loading. The server is configured through a `minetest.conf` file, which specifies settings such as the world name, port number, maximum number of players, and active mods. Running the server requires sufficient system resources like RAM, CPU, and network bandwidth, especially for large worlds or many connected players.
Mods play a huge role in the experience, adding new blocks, items, game mechanics, and more.
Administrators can remotely manage the server using an in-game console or external tools to monitor activity, ban players, and adjust settings while the server is running. The server continues to operate until explicitly stopped, allowing for persistent game worlds and continuous player interaction.

CAVEATS

The server requires a `minetest.conf` file to be properly configured. Ensure the configuration file exists and contains valid settings before starting the server. The world directory must also exist. Insufficient resources (RAM, CPU) may cause performance issues.

CONFIGURATION FILE

The `minetest.conf` file is essential for configuring the server. It contains settings for the world, network, player limits, mods, and other server parameters. The config file uses a simple key-value syntax. This is the main driver for the servers behavior.

MODS

Mods extend the functionality of the game and are a core part of the Minetest experience. They can add new blocks, items, game mechanics, and visual effects. Mods are enabled and configured within the `minetest.conf` file or through in-game commands.

SECURITY

It is important to secure your Minetest server, especially if it is publicly accessible.
This includes setting a strong server password, limiting the number of allowed players, and carefully reviewing the mods installed on the server.

HISTORY

The `minetestserver` command is part of the Minetest project, a free and open source game engine inspired by games like Minecraft. Development started in 2010 by Perttu Ahola. It has since grown into a large community effort with contributions from many developers. The `minetestserver` command is the primary way to host multiplayer Minetest worlds and is integral to the game's multiplayer functionality.

SEE ALSO

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