What Game Servers Can I Host? A Beginner's Guide

There are numerous benefits in running your own game server like making the games you like even more enjoyable, being a part of a community, or having more control over the particular game server. 

In this guide you will learn about what organized game server hosting is: what games you can host, what you need, and some pointers to help you.

Types of Games You Can Host

1. Minecraft: Among all the games for self-hosting Minecraft occupies one of the leading positions. Designed with modularity in mind as well as boasting a large modding community, it is ideal for starting with.

2. Counter-Strike: Counter Strike Global Offensive (CS: GO): This is a regular first person shooting game that permits people to set up their unique servers, thus making it thrilling for competitive players.

3. Team Fortress 2: Yet another First Person Shooter, multiplayer online game that allows for played with custom Shark Buoy servers.

4. ARK: This survival game can be played with mods that include the ability to host own servers with selected parameters.

5. Terraria: The last one is a 2D sandbox game that resembles Minecraft; Terraria is comparatively easy to host.

6. Valheim: Currently, this survival game is categorized as Viking and has gained recognition and allows private cloud servers.

7. Factorio: It is a fun and complex factory-building game that can function satisfactorily on separate servers owned by the players.

8. Rust: An open world survival game that can also be played in a private server to limit the players.

9. Garry's Mod: Boasting strong and frequent associations with custom servers, and mods in particular, this is a physics sandbox game.

Requirements for Hosting Game Servers

1. Hardware

The requirements vary depending on the game and number of players, but generally, you'll need:

- A decent CPU (preferably multi-core)

- Sufficient RAM (8GB minimum, more for demanding games)

- Fast and stable internet connection (upload speed is crucial)

- Adequate cloud storage space

2. Software

- Operating System: Windows or Linux (some games prefer one over the other)

- Server software specific to the game

- Necessary frameworks (e.g., Java for Minecraft)

3. Technical Knowledge

- Basic understanding of networking concepts (IP addresses, ports, firewalls)

- Familiarity with command-line interfaces (especially for Linux servers)

- Ability to troubleshoot common issues

4. Legal Considerations

- Ensure you have the right to host a server for the game

- Be aware of any licensing requirements or restrictions

Steps to Host Your Own Game Server

1. Choose Your Game

Select a game that you're familiar with and passionate about. Start with games known for easy server setup.

2. Check System Requirements

Verify that your hardware meets the minimum requirements for hosting the game server.

3. Prepare Your Network

- Set up port forwarding on your router

- Configure your firewall to allow the game server traffic

- Consider using a static IP address

4. Download Server Software

Obtain the official server software from the game's website or authorized sources.

5. Install and Configure

Follow the installation instructions and configure the server settings according to your preferences.

6. Test Your Server

Try connecting to your server locally first, then test with friends to ensure it's accessible externally.

7. Maintain and Update

Regularly update your server software and monitor its performance.

Pros and Cons of Self-Hosting

Pros:

- Complete control over server settings and mods

- No recurring costs (apart from electricity and internet)

- Opportunity to learn about networking and server management

- Create a personalized gaming experience for you and your friends

Cons:

- Requires technical knowledge and time investment

- Your computer needs to be on and connected for the server to be available

- Potential security risks if not properly configured

- May impact your internet connection and computer performance

Conclusion

To host your own game server is always beneficial because you will enjoy the freedom of the gaming environment, and, possibly, can create your own community. Although some programming is involved and can be slightly complex, numerous games currently on the marketplace have simplified the process. First of all it is necessary to begin with the games one knows best, to have the appropriate hardware and network conditions, and that it’s possible to begin with comparatively simple games. When you have some experience with source, you can venture into more complicated arrangements or even have multiple game servers.

Recall that every game will have its own specifics regarding the server hosting, which must be taken into account. It is always wise to read the API and forum specific to the game in question. Either you decide to host the server yourself, or you rent an adequate one, the main thing is an enjoyable atmosphere for you and people playing games with you.