The wait is coming to an end. On January 13, 2026, Hytale will open its doors in early access. For players, it’s the start of a new era; for server creators, it’s the culmination of years of preparation behind the scenes.
But how do you find your way through the wave of projects that will surge on launch day? And more importantly, how can you be ready to join the adventure without a hitch? Here is our complete guide to approaching the game’s opening with peace of mind.
1. The Player’s Checklist: Being Ready for Launch Day
Before even choosing your first server, several steps are essential to avoid wasting time during the launch:
- Reserve your username: If you participated in the pre-orders on December 13, make sure your account is correctly linked. Your username is the primary element of your identity on the servers.
- Check your specs: Hytale is optimized, but adding server-side mods can demand more resources from your PC. Review our system requirements analysis to avoid lag.
- Prepare your “Early Access Pack”: Some servers will offer cosmetic bonuses to specific pack holders. Check which pack you own to maximize your experience as soon as you connect.
2. How to Choose the Right Type of Server?
From the moment of launch, the server list will be segmented into several categories. Ask yourself the right questions before diving in:
- Gameplay (Modded vs. Vanilla): Hytale allows for automatic asset downloading. Do you prefer a server that respects the original lore of Orbis, or a completely transformed experience (FPS, racing, complex RPG)?
- Community: Look for servers with a clear moderation charter. A good server isn’t just one with a lot of people; it’s one where the atmosphere is healthy.
- Longevity: A project that already has a website and a structured Discord is more likely to last over time than a server launched on a whim.
3. How Are Servers Preparing for Hytale’s Opening?
This is the question everyone is asking: what are administrators doing while the game isn’t out yet? The work behind the scenes is massive:
Development on “placeholder engines” Many teams use third-party modeling tools or emulators to prepare their assets (swords, monsters, buildings). They are anticipating Hytale’s scripting API so that their game systems (economy, professions, quests) are ready to be implemented as soon as server files are available.
Staff Recruitment and Training Managing thousands of simultaneous players isn’t something you can improvise. Future major servers are already recruiting their moderators, guides, and technicians.
Technical Infrastructure Administrators are collaborating with hosting providers to reserve computing capacity. The transition to a C++ engine for the client and Java for server logic requires a robust network architecture to ensure minimal ping, which is crucial for Hytale’s PvP.
Aestheria, a French server, shared some strategies with us:
“For the January 13 opening, our team is mobilizing to offer the community an immersion and depth of gameplay that meets its expectations. At Aestheria, every staff member is doing their part to refine our approach, while directly involving players through creative contests and Christmas giveaways. This rigor and constant listening will allow us to offer a unique experience right from Early Access.”
FAQ: The Latest Info on Early Access
- Can I join multiple servers at once? Yes, your character and global cosmetics follow you, but your progression (inventory, level, currency) is generally specific to each server.
- Will I need to download mods manually? No! This is one of Hytale’s revolutions: all custom content (3D models, sounds, music) is downloaded instantly when you join a server.
- Where can I find the official list of serious projects? There is no single “official” list, but our Hytale Top Server list features projects that meet the quality and preparation criteria mentioned above.
Useful Links for Your Adventure: