The Best Dark and Light Server Hosting

Hosting a Dark and Light server

Dark and Light is a fantasy survival sandbox from Snail Games USA, with magic, creature taming and base building in an open world, played solo, in co-op or PvP. It has been in Early Access since 2017, and Steam's own store page notes that the developers' last update was over six years ago. A private server lets a group keep playing with its own rules and settings.

The Dark and Light dedicated server is a free download through SteamCMD and runs on Windows. Because the game is no longer receiving regular updates, a stable server with reliable backups matters more than keeping up with patches, and the Steam Workshop gives server owners a way to add content.

What to compare

• Steam Workshop mods. Dark and Light supports Workshop mods. If your community uses them, check the host lets you install and order mods on the server, and remember players need matching mods.
• Config file access. Rates, PvE or PvP rules, passwords and player limits are set in the server's configuration files. Look for direct file access rather than a short list of panel toggles.
• Backups. With the game no longer updated, nobody will patch a problem that breaks a save. Automatic backups and easy restores are essential.
• Sizing. Tamed creatures and large bases add load over time. Compare RAM and CPU against your expected player count.
• Windows hosting. The dedicated server is a Windows build. Choose a provider that lists Dark and Light specifically.
• DDoS protection. Public PvP servers attract attacks, so protection is worth having on an open server.
• Location. Pick a datacentre near most of your players for smoother combat and taming.

See the current Dark and Light hosting deals for offers from listed providers. For a whole machine, see dedicated servers.

Dark and Light server hosting FAQ

Is Dark and Light still being updated?

Not regularly. It has been in Early Access since 2017, and Steam notes the developers' last update was over six years ago.

How many players can a Dark and Light server hold?

The player limit is a server setting. More players and more tamed creatures need more memory, so size the plan for your peak.

Can I run mods on a Dark and Light server?

Yes. The game supports Steam Workshop mods, so choose a host that lets you manage the server's mod list.

Can I host a Dark and Light server for free?

Yes. The dedicated server is a free download through SteamCMD for Windows. It is only online while your machine is running it, which is why many communities rent one.