Hosting a RuneScape: Dragonwilds server
RuneScape: Dragonwilds is Jagex's co-op survival game set on the continent of Ashenfall: gather, build a base, train skills, cast spells and take on dragons with a small group. After a year and a half in Early Access it reached version 1.0 on 15 September 2026, launching on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S and Nintendo Switch 2 alongside PC.
A dedicated server keeps your world online so the group can play without one person hosting. The server is a free tool on Steam (SteamCMD app 4019830) for 64-bit Windows and Linux. It will not start until you add your in-game Player ID as the owner in DedicatedServer.ini, and since 1.0 the PlatformPolicy=Crossplay setting lets console players join the same world through an invite code. Each server holds up to six players, a cap set by Jagex.
What to compare
- RAM for six players. The common guidance is about 2 GB plus 1 GB per player, so a full six-player server wants around 8 GB.
- Crossplay settings. If friends play on PS5, Xbox or Switch 2, check you can edit
DedicatedServer.ini and that the host supports the crossplay policy and invite codes.
- Fast updates after patches. A server on an older version disappears from players' lists. Console patches can arrive on a different day to PC because of certification, so a host that updates quickly and lets you restart yourself helps.
- Save uploads and backups. World saves are
.sav files, so you can move a single-player world onto the server. Back up before every update and stop the server cleanly rather than force-killing it.
- Config access. Server name, default world name, admin password and optional world password are all set in the same ini file.
- Location. Combat and building feel better with low ping, so choose a nearby datacentre.
See the current RuneScape: Dragonwilds hosting deals for offers from listed providers. For a whole machine, see dedicated servers.
RuneScape: Dragonwilds server hosting FAQ
How many players can join a Dragonwilds server?
Six. Jagex raised the dedicated server cap from four to six in Early Access, and it stayed at six for 1.0. A host cannot raise it.
Can console players join a dedicated server?
Yes, since 1.0. With crossplay enabled, PC, PS5, Xbox Series X|S and Switch 2 players join the same world using the server's invite code.
Why won't my Dragonwilds server start?
The most common cause is a missing owner ID. The server needs your in-game Player ID in DedicatedServer.ini before it will run.
Can I bring my existing world to a server?
Yes. Copy the world's .sav file into the server's save folder before starting it.
Can I host a Dragonwilds server for free?
Yes, if you run it yourself. The dedicated server is a free Steam tool for Windows and Linux. It is only online while that machine is on, so groups who want the world available at any time usually rent one.
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