Trackmania Forever Server Guide & Discussion
Hey guys! Let's dive into setting up a Trackmania Forever server. This guide covers everything you need to know to get your server up and running, discuss common issues, and optimize your server for the best experience. Whether you're using Trackmania Nations Forever (free) or Trackmania United Forever (paid), this guide has got you covered.
Game Server: Trackmania Nations/United Forever
First off, let's clarify which game we're talking about. We're focusing on Trackmania Nations Forever and Trackmania United Forever. These games are pretty similar, with TMUF being the paid version and Nations being the free one. You can grab them from various sources, including Steam. Here are some helpful links to get you started:
Linux Support
Good news for all you Linux enthusiasts! Trackmania Forever servers have full Linux support, making it a great option for server hosting if you prefer a Linux environment. This means you can take advantage of the stability and performance benefits that Linux offers for game servers. Setting up on Linux might seem daunting at first, but with the right steps, it's totally manageable, and we're here to guide you through it.
Steam Integration
Yep, Trackmania Forever integrates seamlessly with Steam. You'll find the game and server files on Steam, making it easier to manage and update your server. The Steam app ID you'll need is 11020. Keep this handy because you’ll need it during the server setup process. Steam integration also means you can leverage Steam's infrastructure for updates and game distribution, which is always a plus.
Key Considerations for Your Trackmania Forever Server
Before we get into the nitty-gritty, here are some crucial points to keep in mind for your Trackmania Forever server. These can significantly impact your server's visibility and popularity, so pay close attention!
Weekly Coppers and FreeZone Registration
Important: TM1 servers require weekly Coppers and registration at FreeZone to be visible to players using the free version of Trackmania. Coppers are the in-game currency, and maintaining a balance ensures your server stays listed for free players. FreeZone registration is equally crucial; without it, your server might as well be invisible to a large chunk of the community. So, don't skip this step if you want to attract free players!
Ranked Ladder Servers
If you're aiming for the big leagues with a ranked ladder server (60K and above), you'll need to deposit Coppers/Planets and adhere to specific rules. This ensures fair play and maintains the integrity of the ranking system. Setting up a ranked server is a serious commitment, but it can significantly boost your server's prestige and attract competitive players. Make sure you're aware of all the requirements before diving in.
Server Setup Resources
To help you get started, check out this resource for server setup:
Xaseco is a popular control panel for Trackmania servers, and it provides a wealth of features and customization options. Familiarizing yourself with Xaseco can make managing your server a breeze.
Server Registration
Don't forget to register your server! You can do so here:
Registration is essential for your server to be officially recognized and listed in the game browser. It's a quick process, but it's a vital step in making your server accessible to players.
Password Restrictions
Important: Passwords for your server should be a maximum of 10 characters due to limitations with older websites and services. This might seem like a minor detail, but it can cause headaches if you overlook it. Keep your passwords short and sweet to avoid any issues.
Stats Tracking
For those of you keen on tracking server stats, check out Dedimania:
Dedimania offers detailed statistics and leaderboards, which can add a competitive edge to your server and keep players engaged. It's a great way to monitor your server's performance and player activity.
Step-by-Step Server Setup Guide
Alright, let's get to the juicy part – setting up your Trackmania Forever server. Follow these steps, and you'll be racing in no time!
1. Choose Your Hosting Environment
First things first, decide where you're going to host your server. You have a few options:
- Local Machine: If you're just testing or playing with friends, you can host the server on your own computer. This is the easiest option to get started, but it might not be suitable for larger player counts or 24/7 uptime.
- VPS (Virtual Private Server): A VPS gives you more control and resources. It's a good balance between cost and performance, making it ideal for most community servers.
- Dedicated Server: If you're serious about running a large, high-performance server, a dedicated server is the way to go. It's the most expensive option, but it offers the best performance and reliability.
2. Install the Server Files
Once you've chosen your hosting environment, you'll need to install the server files. If you're using Steam, you can download the Trackmania Forever dedicated server files directly through the Steam client. If you're using a VPS or dedicated server, you might need to use SteamCMD, a command-line tool for downloading Steam games and server files.
3. Configure the Server
Now comes the configuration. This is where you'll set up your server name, password, game mode, and other settings. The main configuration file is usually dedicated_cfg.txt, which you'll find in your server directory. Open it up with a text editor and tweak the settings to your liking. Here are some key settings you'll want to configure:
- Server Name: Choose a catchy and descriptive name for your server.
- Password: Set a password to control who can join your server. Remember, it should be 10 characters or less!
- Game Mode: Decide which game mode you want to use, such as Race, Rounds, or Time Attack.
- Max Players: Set the maximum number of players allowed on your server.
- Admin Password: Set a strong admin password to protect your server settings.
4. Port Forwarding (If Necessary)
If you're hosting the server on your local machine, you might need to set up port forwarding on your router. This allows players from outside your local network to connect to your server. The default port for Trackmania Forever is 2350, but you can change this in the dedicated_cfg.txt file. Consult your router's documentation for instructions on how to set up port forwarding.
5. Start the Server
Once you've configured everything, it's time to start the server! If you're using a VPS or dedicated server, you'll typically start the server using a command-line script. If you're hosting locally, you can usually start the server from the Trackmania Forever server executable.
6. Register Your Server
As mentioned earlier, registering your server is crucial for visibility. Head over to https://players.trackmaniaforever.com/ and follow the instructions to register your server. This ensures your server appears in the in-game server browser.
7. Test Your Server
Before you start promoting your server, make sure it's working correctly. Connect to your server using the Trackmania Forever client and verify that everything is running smoothly. Try racing a few tracks and check if the server settings are applied correctly.
Optimizing Your Trackmania Forever Server
Once your server is up and running, you'll want to optimize it for the best performance and player experience. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
Regularly Update Your Server
Keep your server software up to date to ensure you have the latest bug fixes and performance improvements. This is especially important if you're using a third-party control panel like Xaseco.
Monitor Server Performance
Keep an eye on your server's performance, especially during peak hours. If you notice any lag or performance issues, you might need to upgrade your hosting environment or tweak your server settings.
Use a Control Panel
A control panel like Xaseco can make managing your server much easier. It provides a user-friendly interface for configuring server settings, managing players, and installing plugins.
Install Useful Plugins
Plugins can add extra features and functionality to your server. Some popular plugins for Trackmania Forever include track managers, chat commands, and anti-cheat systems. Explore the available plugins and install the ones that best suit your server's needs.
Moderate Your Server
Enforce your server rules and moderate player behavior to create a positive and welcoming environment. This might involve banning disruptive players or using moderation tools to control chat.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with the best setup, you might run into some issues. Here are a few common problems and how to troubleshoot them:
Server Not Listed
If your server isn't showing up in the server browser, make sure you've registered it correctly and that you have enough Coppers if you're running a free server. Also, check your firewall settings to ensure they're not blocking the server port.
Connection Issues
If players are having trouble connecting to your server, check your port forwarding settings (if applicable) and make sure your server is running. Also, verify that your server IP address is correct.
Lag and Performance Issues
If your server is experiencing lag, try reducing the max player count or upgrading your hosting environment. Also, check for any resource-intensive plugins that might be causing performance issues.
Code of Conduct
Before we wrap up, let's talk about the Code of Conduct. By running a Trackmania Forever server, you agree to follow the project's Code of Conduct. This ensures a respectful and inclusive environment for all players. Be mindful of your community and promote positive interactions.
Conclusion
Setting up a Trackmania Forever server might seem like a lot of work, but it's totally worth it. With this guide, you should have a solid understanding of the process and be well on your way to creating an awesome racing community. Remember to keep your server updated, moderate it effectively, and most importantly, have fun! Happy racing, guys! If you have any questions or run into issues, don't hesitate to ask – we're all here to help each other out. Let's build the best Trackmania Forever community possible!