How to play hytale with friends

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Last updated: April 4, 2026

Quick Answer: To play Hytale with friends, you'll need to set up a server. This can be done by either renting a server from a hosting provider or setting up your own dedicated server on a personal computer. Once the server is running, you and your friends can join it using its IP address.

Key Facts

Hytale is an upcoming sandbox adventure game with a focus on creativity and exploration.
Multiplayer functionality will be a core feature, allowing players to create and join servers.
Servers can be self-hosted or rented from third-party providers.
The game is developed by Hypixel Studios, a company founded by the creators of the popular Minecraft server Hypixel.
Hytale is expected to launch on PC and mobile devices, with cross-platform play planned.

Overview

Hytale is an eagerly anticipated sandbox adventure game developed by Hypixel Studios. It aims to provide players with a deep and engaging world filled with opportunities for creativity, exploration, and adventure. A key aspect of Hytale's design is its robust multiplayer functionality, which will allow players to connect with their friends and embark on shared journeys. Playing Hytale with friends will primarily revolve around joining or hosting dedicated servers. These servers act as shared instances of the game world where multiple players can interact, build, and explore together.

Setting Up a Server

There are two main approaches to setting up a server for Hytale multiplayer:

1. Renting a Server from a Hosting Provider:

This is often the easiest and most convenient method for most players. Numerous game server hosting companies will offer Hytale servers once the game is released. These providers manage the hardware, network infrastructure, and often provide user-friendly control panels to configure your server. You typically pay a monthly fee based on the server's specifications (e.g., player slots, RAM, CPU power). The benefits of renting include:

Ease of Use: No technical expertise is required to get a server up and running.
Reliability: Hosting providers ensure stable uptime and good performance.
Support: Most providers offer technical support to help resolve any issues.
Scalability: You can often upgrade your server's resources as needed.

When choosing a provider, look for those that specialize in Hytale or have a good reputation for hosting similar games. Key factors to consider are server location (for lower ping), player slot limits, available RAM, and customer reviews.

2. Setting Up a Self-Hosted Server:

For players with more technical knowledge and suitable hardware, setting up a dedicated server on their own computer is an option. This involves downloading the Hytale server software (which will be provided by Hypixel Studios upon release) and configuring it to run on your machine. This method offers more control but comes with its own set of challenges:

Hardware Requirements: Your computer needs to be powerful enough to run the game for yourself while also hosting the server for others. This typically means a strong CPU, ample RAM, and a reliable internet connection.
Network Configuration: You'll likely need to configure port forwarding on your router to allow external players to connect to your server. This can be a complex process for those unfamiliar with networking.
Security: You are responsible for the security of your server and network.
Maintenance: You'll need to manage server updates and troubleshooting.

A significant advantage of self-hosting is that it can be free (aside from your existing hardware and internet costs), and you have complete control over the server's settings and modifications.

Connecting to a Server

Once a server is set up and running, connecting to it is straightforward:

Obtain the Server IP Address: The server host (whether it's you or a rental provider) will provide you with the server's IP address. This is a unique numerical identifier for the server.
Launch Hytale: Start the Hytale game on your client.
Navigate to Multiplayer: In the game's main menu, select the 'Multiplayer' option.
Add Server: You should find an option to 'Add Server' or 'Join Server'. Enter the provided IP address into the designated field.
Join: Click 'Join Server' or a similar button. If the IP address is correct and the server is online, you will connect to your friends' game world.

Server Discovery and Whitelisting

Hytale's server browser system is expected to be robust, allowing players to find and join public servers easily. However, for private games with friends, you'll typically rely on direct IP connections. Some servers may also implement whitelisting, a security feature that restricts access to only a pre-approved list of player usernames. If a server is whitelisted, the server administrator will need to add your Hytale username to the list before you can join.

Community and Modding

Hytale is being built with modding and community creation at its core. This means players can expect extensive tools and support for customizing their gameplay experience. When playing with friends, this could translate to shared custom maps, unique game modes, or entirely new content created by the community. Servers will be the primary hubs for these shared experiences, allowing groups of friends to explore handcrafted adventures or build elaborate creations together.

Future Developments

As Hytale is still under development, specific details regarding server hosting and multiplayer features may evolve. Hypixel Studios has emphasized their commitment to providing a flexible and accessible multiplayer experience. Players are encouraged to follow official Hytale news channels for the latest updates on server requirements, hosting options, and best practices for playing with friends upon the game's official launch.