Guide Getting Started Overview

Server Overview

Welcome to the NightshadeSMP Guide! This comprehensive resource contains everything you need to know about our server, from rules and guidelines to technical information and community features.

About NightshadeSMP

NightshadeSMP is a vanilla survival Minecraft server designed for adults who value creativity and community. We provide a carefully curated experience that balances 100% vanilla Minecraft gameplay with performance optimizations. Rather than trying to become a large-scale server, we intentionally maintain a smaller, consistent community. Our focus is on quality over quantity, ensuring every player enjoys the authentic survival experience Minecraft was designed for.

Our server runs on Minecraft 1.21.11 using Fabric, a lightweight mod loader that lets us optimize performance while preserving 100% vanilla game mechanics.

Server Address: play.nightshadesmp.net

Version: 1.21.11 (Java Edition)

Platform: Fabric

Type: Whitelisted Vanilla Survival

Community: 18+ Only

Important: Java Edition Only

NightshadeSMP is NOT cross-play compatible. Only players using Minecraft: Java Edition can join our server.

❌ These versions CANNOT join:

  • Minecraft Bedrock Edition (cross-platform version)
  • PlayStation 4 / PlayStation 5
  • Xbox One / Xbox Series X|S
  • Nintendo Switch
  • Windows 10/11 Edition (from Microsoft Store)
  • Mobile (iOS / Android)

✔ This version CAN join:

  • Minecraft: Java Edition (purchased from Minecraft.net or launcher)

Legitimate Accounts Required

You must own a legitimate, official Mojang/Microsoft account to join NightshadeSMP. Cracked or unofficial versions of Minecraft are not supported and will be unable to connect.

What this means:

  • Your account must be purchased through official channels (Minecraft.net or Microsoft Store for Java Edition)
  • Cracked, pirated, or unofficial launchers cannot connect to our server
  • This is a requirement for server security and player authentication

Don't have Minecraft: Java Edition yet?

You can purchase Minecraft: Java Edition from the official Minecraft website. The game typically costs around $26.95 USD.

How to purchase:

  1. Visit Minecraft.net
  2. Create a Microsoft account (or sign in if you have one)
  3. Purchase Minecraft: Java & Bedrock Edition for PC
  4. Download and install the Minecraft Launcher
  5. Launch the game and select "Java Edition" from the launcher

Note: When you purchase from the official site, you now get both Java and Bedrock editions. Make sure to select Java Edition when launching the game to connect to our server!

Navigate This Guide

Use the sidebar to explore different sections:

  • Rules & Guidelines: Learn about our server rules, community standards, and building policies
  • Server Information: Discover technical details, installed mods, and staff information
Guide Rules & Guidelines Core Server Rules

Core Server Rules

These are the fundamental rules that all players must follow. Violation of these rules may result in warnings or bans at staff discretion.

No Griefing

Destroying or altering others' builds without permission is strictly prohibited.

✔ What is okay:

  • Fixing minor terrain around your own builds
  • Removing builds you created yourself
  • Altering community projects with explicit permission
  • Working on collaborative builds you're invited to

❌ What's not okay:

  • Breaking, placing, or modifying blocks in someone else's area
  • Destroying or damaging builds, even as a "prank"
  • Removing or moving items from someone's build
  • Claiming you "didn't know" it was someone's build
  • Griefing then offering to fix it

No Stealing

Chests not labeled "Public" or "Community" are private. Do not take from them.

✔ What is okay:

  • Taking items from chests labeled "Public" or "Community"
  • Taking items from chests you own
  • Using items with explicit permission from the owner
  • Borrowing items if you have a standing agreement

❌ What's not okay:

  • Taking items from unlabeled chests (they're private)
  • Taking items from another player's storage
  • Borrowing without asking, even if you plan to return it
  • Taking "just a little" and thinking it won't be noticed
  • Claiming abandoned items without staff approval

No Hack Clients or X-Ray

We have systems in place to detect cheating. Don't embarrass yourself.

✔ What is okay:

  • Approved client mods (Litematica, minimaps, Minihud)
  • Optifine and performance mods
  • Visual enhancement mods (shaders, texture packs)
  • Quality-of-life mods that don't give unfair advantages

❌ What's not okay:

  • X-ray texture packs or mods
  • Hack clients (fly, speed, killaura, etc.)
  • Freecam to find ores or structures for personal gain
  • Any mod that gives you an unfair advantage
  • Trying to bypass anti-cheat systems

No PVP Unless Mutually Agreed Upon

PVP is only allowed if both parties consent.

✔ What is okay:

  • Consensual PVP duels with clear agreement
  • Organized PVP events with all participants agreeing
  • PVP in designated arenas with mutual consent
  • Friendly sparring when both players explicitly agree

❌ What's not okay:

  • Attacking players without their permission
  • Killing players as a "joke" or "prank"
  • Assuming someone wants to fight
  • Continuing to attack after someone says stop
  • Using mobs or environment to kill players without consent

Adhere to In-Game Signage

Respect all in-game signs indicating ownership, restrictions, or community resources.

✔ What is okay:

  • Following instructions on signs
  • Using chests marked "Public" or "Community"
  • Respecting "Staff Only" or restricted area signs
  • Asking for permission if a sign is unclear

❌ What's not okay:

  • Ignoring signs because you "didn't see them"
  • Taking from unlabeled chests (private by default)
  • Entering areas marked "Staff Only" or "Private"
  • Breaking or removing signs to bypass restrictions
  • Claiming ignorance after clear signage

No Excessive Swearing

Racism, sexism, and hate speech will result in an immediate ban.

✔ What is okay:

  • Occasional mild language in appropriate context
  • Adult conversations kept respectful
  • Language that doesn't make others uncomfortable

❌ What's not okay:

  • Slurs of any kind (instant ban)
  • Hate speech, racism, sexism, homophobia, transphobia
  • Excessive profanity that creates a hostile environment
  • Using language to harass or degrade others
  • Arguing that "it's just words" when asked to stop

Allowed Duped Items

Rails, carpet, and TNT are the only items that may be duped.

✔ What is okay:

  • Duping rails for transportation projects
  • Duping carpet for decoration and builds
  • Duping TNT for mining or farm automation
  • Using duped items from these three categories

❌ What's not okay:

  • Duping any item not explicitly listed as allowed
  • Exploiting game mechanics for item multiplication

Don't Be Annoying

Avoid behavior that disrupts others' enjoyment of the game.

✔ What is okay:

  • Asking questions when you genuinely need help
  • Having fun and joking around with friends
  • Building near others if you're respectful
  • Normal gameplay that doesn't target anyone

❌ What's not okay:

  • Spamming chat with repeated messages
  • Following players around after they ask you to stop
  • Intentionally disrupting others' builds or activities
  • Excessive begging or pestering for attention
  • Creating drama or stirring up conflict
  • Behavior that consistently bothers other players

No Begging for Items

Be self-sufficient, especially if you are new.

✔ What is okay:

  • Asking where to find resources
  • Trading items fairly with other players
  • Accepting gifts when offered voluntarily
  • Asking for help understanding game mechanics

❌ What's not okay:

  • Asking for free items, especially as a new player
  • Repeatedly requesting donations or handouts
  • Guilt-tripping players into giving you items
  • Expecting others to gear you up
  • Asking for items right after joining the server

No Pirated Versions

You must use a legitimate version of the game to connect to the server.

✔ What is okay:

  • Using a legitimately purchased Minecraft Java Edition account
  • Playing with official Mojang/Microsoft accounts
  • Using the Minecraft launcher from the official website

❌ What's not okay:

  • Using cracked or pirated versions of Minecraft
  • Using third-party launchers that bypass authentication
  • Attempting to connect with non-genuine accounts
  • Account sharing or using someone else's login
Guide Getting Started How to Join

How to Join NightshadeSMP

Getting started on NightshadeSMP is easy! We offer two convenient ways to apply for whitelist access.

Note: Discord is required to join our server. If you don't have Discord yet, expand the section below for setup instructions.

New to Discord? Click here for setup instructions

Discord is required to join NightshadeSMP. Expand this section if you need help getting started.

Discord is a free communication platform designed for communities. It's trusted by over 150 million users and is the standard for gaming communities. We use it for community communication, server announcements, and account verification.

Getting Started:

  1. Visit Discord.com to create a free account
  2. Download the Discord app for your device (desktop, mobile, or use the web version)
  3. Verify your email address
  4. Join our Discord server

Once you have Discord set up, you can proceed with applying to join NightshadeSMP!

Option 1: Apply Through the Website

The quickest way to apply is directly through our website:

  1. Navigate to the Join tab on our website
  2. Fill out the whitelist application form
  3. Submit your application and wait for review
  4. You'll receive a notification once your application is processed

Option 2: Apply Through Discord

Prefer Discord? You can apply there too:

  1. Join our Discord server
  2. Navigate to the application channel
  3. Follow the instructions and fill out the application
  4. Staff will review and respond to your application in Discord

Both methods work great!

Choose whichever option is most convenient for you. Applications are reviewed regularly by our staff team.

Discord Account Linking (Required)

After you've been whitelisted, you'll need to link your Discord account to your Minecraft account.

This is a one-time setup that helps us keep the community connected.

How to Link Your Discord Account:

  1. Join the server - Connect to play.nightshadesmp.net for the first time
  2. Get your linking code - When you join, you'll receive a message in Minecraft chat with a unique code
  3. Open Discord - Go to any text channel in our Discord server (not voice chat text channels)
  4. Link your account - Type the command: /link <code>
  5. Confirmation - You'll receive a message confirming your accounts are linked!

Important Notes:

  • The linking command only works in Discord text channels, not in voice chat text channels
  • Use the exact code provided when you joined the server
  • This is a one-time setup - you won't need to do this again
  • If you have issues, open a ticket in Discord for help

Ready to Play!

Once your Discord account is linked, you're all set! Welcome to NightshadeSMP. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to ask in Discord or check out the rest of this guide.

Guide Getting Started FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers to common questions about NightshadeSMP. Click any question to expand the answer.

How big is the map?

The overworld is 20,000 blocks in diameter (10,000 blocks from spawn in each direction).

The Nether is equal to the overworld border

The End is much larger than the overworld border

If a major Minecraft update adds new world generation during a season, the border may be expanded so players can access the new content.

How often does the world reset?

World resets happen every 8-12 months on average, but the community decides the exact timing.

After about 8 months, we post a vote in Discord asking if players want to reset or keep going. If the vote says continue, the season lasts longer.

What is the world seed?

The seed is kept secret during each season for fairness. This prevents players from using tools to locate structures like strongholds or ancient cities before anyone else can find them naturally.

The seed may be revealed when the world download is released.

Can I download the world after a reset?

Yes. After each season ends, the world download will be posted in Discord within a few days. You can explore it in single-player, revisit your builds, or take screenshots.

What do I do if I've been griefed or stolen from?

If you discover that your build has been damaged or items have been stolen, do not take matters into your own hands. Instead, follow these steps:

How to report:

  1. Open a ticket in the Support category in our Discord server
  2. Provide the coordinates of the affected area
  3. Describe what was damaged or taken
  4. Include any other relevant information (screenshots, when you last saw it intact, etc.)

What happens next:

  • Staff will use Ledger to investigate all block interactions and container access at that location
  • We can see exactly who placed, broke, or took items and when
  • Damaged builds will be rolled back to their original state
  • Stolen items will be returned
  • The responsible player will face appropriate consequences

Important:

You can also inspect block history yourself using /lg i or /ledger inspect, then click on blocks to see who interacted with them. However, please still report incidents to staff rather than confronting players directly.

Are there land claims or protection plugins?

No. Instead of claims, we use Ledger to track every block and container interaction on the server. Staff can see who did what, where, and when, and can rollback any grief or stolen items.

You can inspect blocks yourself with /lg i or /ledger inspect, then click blocks to see their history.

If something was griefed or stolen, open a ticket in Discord with coordinates and details. Don't confront players yourself - let staff handle it.

What do you mean by "seasons"?

A season is the time between world resets. Each season starts with a fresh world, typically lasts 8-12 months, then gets reset. The old world becomes downloadable when a new season starts.

We do this to keep the server fresh, let everyone start equal periodically, and prevent the world from becoming cluttered or resource-depleted.

What does "pure vanilla" mean?

"Pure vanilla" means the gameplay is identical to single-player Minecraft, just with other people.

No teleports, no economy plugins, no keep inventory. Redstone and game mechanics work exactly like vanilla. Travel is on foot, by horse, or through the nether.

We use server-side performance mods and have quality-of-life features like /menu and armor stand editor, but nothing that changes how you play the game. See the Overview for more details.

Guide Rules & Guidelines Community Guidelines

Community Guidelines

Our community guidelines help maintain a positive, respectful environment for all players.

Be Respectful

Treat all members with respect and kindness. Discrimination or harassment of any kind will not be tolerated.

✔ What is okay:

  • Friendly banter and jokes with people you know well
  • Constructive criticism delivered respectfully
  • Disagreeing politely and moving on
  • Asking someone to stop a behavior that bothers you

❌ What's not okay:

  • Slurs, hate speech, or discriminatory language of any kind
  • Personal attacks or insults
  • Mocking someone's appearance, voice, or identity
  • Dismissing or invalidating someone's feelings
  • Trolling or intentionally provoking negative reactions

Be Considerate

If your actions or words make others uncomfortable, stop. Even if you don't understand their discomfort, respect their feelings.

✔ What is okay:

  • Asking if someone wants to participate before including them
  • Reading the room and adjusting your behavior
  • Apologizing when you've made someone uncomfortable
  • Being mindful of shared spaces (chat, VC, server events)

❌ What's not okay:

  • Continuing behavior after someone asks you to stop
  • Arguing about why someone shouldn't be uncomfortable
  • Spamming chat or VC with loud/disruptive content
  • Dominating conversations and not letting others speak
  • Dismissing concerns with "it's just a joke" or "don't be sensitive"

VC Conduct: Keep Public Spaces Drama-Free

Public voice chats are shared social spaces meant for hanging out, playing, and relaxing. Personal conflicts should not be discussed in large public VCs.

If you're experiencing an issue with another player, a staff member, or the server itself, please open a ticket instead of bringing it into a public VC. This keeps the environment comfortable for everyone and ensures your concern is handled privately, respectfully, and effectively.

✔ What is okay:

  • Venting or talking with close friends in a small VC
  • Asking staff privately for help
  • Opening a ticket for anything that needs moderation or support
  • Moving to a private VC to discuss sensitive topics

❌ What's not okay:

  • Bringing drama, conflict, or accusations into a VC with lots of people
  • Calling out players publicly
  • Using public VC as a place to "air out" issues
  • Ranting about staff decisions or other players in public spaces

🫶 Community Expectation:

If someone starts bringing up drama or conflict in a public VC, any player is encouraged to gently say: "Hey, this isn't the right place, open a ticket so staff can help."

This isn't about shutting people down. It's about keeping shared spaces enjoyable while still giving everyone a safe place to talk about problems.

Pattern of Disruptive Behavior

Players who repeatedly harm the experience of others may be formally documented by staff, even if individual actions don't violate specific rules.

If a pattern of behavior emerges, staff may take appropriate action, including warnings, temporary restrictions, or removal from the community.

What this covers:

  • Repeatedly starting arguments or stirring up conflict
  • Consistently making others uncomfortable despite warnings
  • Being antagonistic or creating a negative atmosphere
  • Repeatedly pushing boundaries or testing limits
  • A pattern of "technically allowed" but harmful behavior

This policy exists to address ongoing harmful behavior that falls between the lines of explicit rules but still damages the community environment. Staff will document patterns and communicate with players about concerns before taking action.

Be Ethical

Uphold integrity and honesty in all interactions. Cheating, exploiting, or any form of unethical behavior will not be tolerated.

✔ What is okay:

  • Using allowed client mods (see Allowed Client Mods page)
  • Reporting bugs or exploits to staff
  • Trading fairly with other players
  • Being honest about mistakes or accidents

❌ What's not okay:

  • Using hacked clients, x-ray, or any unauthorized mods
  • Exploiting bugs or glitches for personal gain
  • Scamming other players in trades or agreements
  • Lying to staff or manipulating situations
  • Account sharing or allowing others to play on your account
  • Duplicating items through exploits

Use Common Sense

Think before you act. If something feels wrong, it probably is. Use your best judgment to contribute positively to our community.

Examples of common sense:

  • Don't build offensive or inappropriate structures
  • Don't intentionally lag the server or cause issues
  • Don't look for loopholes in the rules
  • Don't engage in behavior that would obviously upset others
  • Ask yourself: "Would I want someone doing this to me?"

We can't list every possible scenario, so we rely on players to make good choices. When in doubt, ask staff or err on the side of caution.

Respect Diverse Beliefs

Minecraft is a global community with diverse values. Focus on enjoying the game together rather than debating beliefs.

✔ What is okay:

  • Sharing your culture or traditions when relevant
  • Respectful, friendly discussions if all parties are willing
  • Agreeing to disagree and moving on

❌ What's not okay:

  • Pushing religious, political, or ideological views on others
  • Starting heated debates about controversial topics
  • Mocking or belittling someone's beliefs or values
  • Creating an uncomfortable environment with divisive topics

We're here to play Minecraft together. Keep conversations focused on the game, shared interests, and building community.

Zero Tolerance for Harassment

Harassment, threats, or advocating violence will result in an immediate ban without warning.

This includes:

  • Targeted harassment of any player or staff member
  • Threats of violence, self-harm, or harm to others
  • Doxxing (sharing personal information without consent)
  • Sexual harassment or unwanted advances
  • Stalking or persistent unwanted contact
  • Encouraging others to harass someone

These violations result in immediate permanent bans. We take the safety of our community seriously.

If you experience harassment, document it (screenshots) and open a ticket immediately. Staff will handle the situation privately and take appropriate action.

Guide Rules & Guidelines Building Guidelines

Building Guidelines

Our server is divided into different zones, each with specific building rules and purposes.

Spawn

The Spawn area is viewable on the live map. It includes the entire Plains biome and surrounding trees.

  • Spawn is for starter bases, not main bases
  • No heavy redstone or large numbers of entities
  • Community farms at spawn are for everyone
  • For personal farms and mega-bases, please build in the open world

Minigames District

This area is for community games and experiences. View the district on the live map.

  • No personal bases are allowed in this district

Shopping District

This area is for player-trading shops only. View the district on the live map.

  • A note on our economy: Undercutting and competing shops are allowed and considered normal
  • To succeed, find unique goods to sell rather than engaging in price wars
  • Personal bases are not permitted here

Open World

  • You can build anything you want (farms, mega-bases, etc.) as long as it doesn't lag the server
  • Stay at least 200 blocks from your nearest neighbor unless they agree otherwise
  • Mark your base with a sign. The first line must be [poi], and the next 3 lines can be a description. This legitimizes your 200x200 claim

Nether

  • The community Nether highway is at Y-level 100
  • The Nether roof is completely open for building

The End

  • End chunks are occasionally pruned to regenerate End cities
  • Farms and builds are safe and will not be pruned

Farms

  • All farms must have an on/off switch
  • AFK farms causing significant server lag will be dealt with by moderation
  • AFKing itself is allowed, but please be mindful of server performance
Guide Rules & Guidelines Allowed Client Mods

Allowed Client Modifications

We're friendly to most non-cheaty client mods. If you're unsure, ask us!

Allowed Mods

  • Litematica
  • Minimap mods
  • Most quality-of-life mods like Minihud

Important Note:

Using free cam or minimap to find structures for personal gain is forbidden. Suspicious digging patterns may lead to a ban.

You may use free cam to light up caves for farming efficiency.

Guide Server Information About NightshadeSMP

What is NightshadeSMP

Why We Use Fabric

NightshadeSMP runs on Fabric, a lightweight mod loader that lets us optimize performance while preserving 100% vanilla game mechanics.

Unlike platforms like Paper that modify redstone behavior, mob spawning, and other core mechanics to improve performance, Fabric keeps the game identical to vanilla, meaning complex redstone contraptions, technical farms, and game mechanics work exactly as intended.

We only add server-side mods for performance and quality-of-life features. Any custom commands are entirely optional and won't impact gameplay for those who prefer not to use them.

World Resets

The world resets every 8-12 months based on community votes, ensuring a fresh experience while respecting player investment. Previous world downloads are always made available.

Guide Server Information Server Features

Server Features

Discover what makes NightshadeSMP unique and enjoyable for our community.

No Griefing / Stealing Your builds and items are protected by staff and logging tools.
No Teleportation Travel is done on foot, by boat, or through the Nether — the vanilla way.
No Pay To Win Donations are cosmetic only. No gameplay advantages for purchase.
No Keep-Inventory Death has consequences. Play carefully and prepare for adventure.
Active Staff Team Dedicated moderators online daily to keep things running smoothly.
Armor Stand Editor Pose and customize armor stands for detailed builds and displays.
Simple Voice Chat Proximity-based voice chat — talk to nearby players in-game.
Online Map (BlueMap) Explore the world in 3D from your browser with our live map.
Custom Events Regular community events, build contests, and activities to keep things interesting.
Ledger Block History Full block logging to track changes and resolve disputes.
Seasonal World Resets Fresh worlds each season to keep the experience exciting.
World Downloads Available Download previous season worlds to revisit your builds offline.
Toggleable Phantoms Disable phantom spawns for your player — sleep is optional.
Toggleable Locator Bar Enable a custom HUD bar showing coordinates and server info.
Fast Updating We stay up to date with the latest Minecraft version as soon as possible.
Guide Server Information Installed Mods

Installed Mods

Our server uses Fabric with server-side performance and quality-of-life mods. These mods don't require anything from the client and preserve vanilla gameplay.

Armor Stand Editor Pose and customize armor stands in-game
BlueMap Live 3D web map of the server world
Discord Integration Bridges in-game chat with Discord
Fabric Carpet Technical features and server-side tweaks
Ledger Block logging for grief prevention and rollbacks
Lithium General-purpose server performance optimizer
ServerCore Optimizes entity and chunk processing
Simple Voice Chat Proximity-based in-game voice communication
FerriteCore Reduces memory usage of Minecraft
Syncmatica Share Litematica schematics and placements easily
Servux Provides extra support for client-side mods
NightshadeSMP Custom Mod Adds many custom features
Guide Server Information Technical Details

Technical Details

Detailed technical information about our server hardware, world configuration, and performance settings.

Hardware Specifications

Our server runs on high-performance dedicated hardware to ensure smooth gameplay.

CPU: AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D

RAM: 32 GB DDR5

Location: North America

World Configuration

Our world is configured to provide the best vanilla survival experience.

World Size: 24000 block diameter (Overworld)

Seed: Redacted

Difficulty: Hard

Game Mode: Survival

PVP: Enabled (consent required)

Fire Spread: Disabled

Mob griefing: Enabled

Enderman griefing: disabled

View Distance: 12 Chunks

Simulation Distance: 8 Chunks

ServerCore Configuration

View our complete ServerCore configuration file with all performance optimization settings.

This is the main configuration file for ServerCore - our primary performance optimization mod. These settings balance server performance with vanilla gameplay integrity.

Feel free to suggest alterations to this config by opening a ticket. Some settings are necessary to prevent lag while others can be adjusted based on community feedback.

# The main configuration file for ServerCore.
# Most of these settings can be reloaded without restarting using /servercore reload.

# Most miscellaneous feature toggles.
features:
  # Reverts enderpearl behavior to pre-1.21.2. The following will change when this setting is enabled:
  # ► Enderpearls will no longer load chunks around them.
  # ► Enderpearls will load / unload with chunks again instead of with their owner joining / leaving the game.
  # Note: Toggling this setting may cause some old enderpearls from before the toggle to be lost.
  prevent-enderpearl-chunkloading: false
  # Whether the chunk-tick-distance dynamic setting should affect random ticks.
  # Enabling this will stop chunks from performing random ticks when they are outside of this distance from any player.
  # That includes chunks loaded by enderpearls or portals, breaking vanilla behavior.
  chunk-tick-distance-affects-random-ticks: false
  # Prevents lagspikes caused by players moving into unloaded chunks.
  prevent-moving-into-unloaded-chunks: false
  # The amount of seconds between auto-saves when /save-on is active.
  autosave-interval-seconds: 300
  # The fraction that decides the chance of experience orbs being able to merge with each other. (1 = 100%, 40 = 2.5%)
  # Note that just like in vanilla, experience orbs will still need to be of the same size to actually merge.
  xp-merge-fraction: 20
  # The radius in blocks that experience orbs will merge at.
  xp-merge-radius: 1.0
  # The radius in blocks that items will merge at.
  item-merge-radius: 0.5
  lobotomize-villagers:
    # Makes villagers tick less often if they are stuck in a 1x1 space.
    enabled: true
    # Decides the interval in between villager ticks when lobotomized.
    tick-interval: 20


# Automatically modifies dynamic settings based on the server performance.
dynamic:
  # Enables dynamic performance checks.
  enabled: true
  # The average MSPT to target.
  target-mspt: 50
  # The default values for dynamic settings.
  # If left unspecified, the maximum value will be used.
  # Note: adding view / simulation distance here will override their value in server.properties.
  default-values:
    MOBCAP_PERCENTAGE: 100
    CHUNK_TICK_DISTANCE: 8
    SIMULATION_DISTANCE: 8 

  # The settings that will be decreased when the server is overloaded, in the specified order.
  # You can remove settings from the list that you don't want to be dynamically adjusted.
  # ► max = The maximum value the server will increase the setting to.
  # ► min = The minimum value the server will decrease the setting to.
  # ► increment = The amount the setting will be increased or decreased by.
  # ► interval = The amount of seconds between each check to increase or decrease.
  dynamic-settings:

    - setting: 'CHUNK_TICK_DISTANCE'
      max: 8
      min: 4
      increment: 1
      interval: 10

    - setting: 'MOBCAP_PERCENTAGE'
      max: 100
      min: 40
      increment: 10
      interval: 10

    - setting: 'SIMULATION_DISTANCE'
      max: 8
      min: 4
      increment: 1
      interval: 10


# A special mobcap that only affects the breeding of animals and villagers.
breeding-cap:
  # Enables breeding caps.
  enabled: true
  # The breeding cap for villagers.
  # ► limit = The limit of mobs of the same type within range. Setting this to negative will disable the breeding cap.
  # ► range = The range it will check for entities of the same type.
  # ► unlimited-height = Whether to ignore the vertical distance when checking for entities of the same type.
  villagers:
    limit: 24
    range: 24
    unlimited-height: false

  # The breeding cap for animals.
  # Note that this cap only checks for animals of the same type.
  # If the limit is 32 you can still breed 32 cows and 32 pigs next to each other.
  animals:
    limit: 70
    range: 64
    unlimited-height: false


# Gives more control over mob spawning.
mob-spawning:
  # Mobcap settings for zombie reinforcements.
  # ► enforce-mobcap = Whether to enforce mobcaps for this type of mobspawning.
  # ► additional-capacity = Additional capacity for this specific mobcap. Decides how much it can spawn over the regular mobcap.
  # It is recommended to allow them to spawn a bit over the regular mobcap as they would otherwise never get a chance to spawn.
  zombie-reinforcements:
    enforce-mobcap: false
    additional-capacity: 32

  # Mobcap settings for zombified piglin spawning from nether portal random ticks.
  nether-portal-randomticks:
    enforce-mobcap: false
    additional-capacity: 32

  # Mobcap settings for mobs spawned from monster spawners.
  monster-spawners:
    enforce-mobcap: false
    additional-capacity: 32

  # Mobcap settings for silverfish spawned from the infested potion effect.
  infested:
    enforce-mobcap: false
    additional-capacity: 32

  # A list of mob categories with their respective mobcap and spawn interval.
  # ► category = The vanilla spawn category.
  # ► mobcap = The maximum amount of entities in the same category that can spawn near a player.
  # ► spawn-interval = The interval between spawn attempts in ticks. Higher values mean less frequent spawn attempts.
  categories:
    - category: 'MONSTER'
      mobcap: 70
      spawn-interval: 1

    - category: 'CREATURE'
      mobcap: 10
      spawn-interval: 600

    - category: 'AMBIENT'
      mobcap: 15
      spawn-interval: 1

    - category: 'AXOLOTLS'
      mobcap: 5
      spawn-interval: 1

    - category: 'UNDERGROUND_WATER_CREATURE'
      mobcap: 5
      spawn-interval: 1

    - category: 'WATER_CREATURE'
      mobcap: 5
      spawn-interval: 1

    - category: 'WATER_AMBIENT'
      mobcap: 20
      spawn-interval: 1


# Settings for commands and their formatting.
commands:
  # Enables the /servercore status command.
  status-enabled: true
  # Enables the /mobcaps command.
  mobcaps-enabled: true
  colors:
    # The colors used in command feedback. You can use hex codes or minecraft legacy color names.
    # The primary color is the most used color in command feedback.
    primary: 'dark_aqua'
    # The secondary color is used for highlighting important information, like values.
    secondary: 'green'
    # The tertiary color is mostly used for text in titles.
    tertiary: 'aqua'


# Activation range can drastically reduce the amount of lag caused by ticking entities.
# It does this by cleverly skipping certain entity ticks based on the distance to players and other factors, like immunity checks.
# Immunity checks determine whether an entity should be ticked even when it's outside the activation range, like for example when it is falling or takes damage.
# Note: while this is a very powerful feature, it can still slow down mobfarms and break very specific technical contraptions.
activation-range:
  # Enables activation range.
  enabled: true
  # Briefly ticks entities newly added to the world for 10 seconds (includes both spawning and loading).
  # This gives them a chance to properly immunize when they are spawned if they should be. Can be helpful for mobfarms.
  tick-new-entities: true
  # Enables vertical range checks. By default, activation ranges only work horizontally.
  # This can greatly improve performance on taller worlds, but might break a few very specific ai-based mobfarms.
  use-vertical-range: false
  # Skips 1/4th of entity ticks whilst not immune.
  # This affects entities that are within the activation range, but not immune (for example by falling or being in water).
  skip-non-immune: false
  # Allows villagers to tick regardless of the activation range when panicking.
  villager-tick-panic: true
  # The time in seconds that a villager needs to be inactive for before obtaining work immunity (if it has work tasks).
  villager-work-immunity-after: 20
  # The amount of ticks an inactive villager will wake up for when it has work immunity.
  villager-work-immunity-for: 20
  # A list of entity types that should be excluded from activation range checks.
  excluded-entity-types:
    - 'minecraft:hopper_minecart'
    - 'minecraft:minecart'
    - 'minecraft:chest_minecart'
    - 'minecraft:ghast'
    - 'minecraft:warden'
    - 'minecraft:allay'
    - 'minecraft:happy_ghast'
  # The activation type that will get assigned to any entity that doesn't have a custom activation type.
  # ► activation-range = The range an entity is required to be in from a player to be activated.
  # ► tick-interval = The interval between 'active' ticks whilst the entity is inactive. Negative values will disable these active ticks.
  # ► wakeup-interval = The interval between inactive entity wakeups in seconds.
  # ► extra-height-up = Allows entities to be ticked when far above the player when vertical range is in use.
  # ► extra-height-down = Allows entities to be ticked when far below the player when vertical range is in use.
  default-activation-type:
    activation-range: 24
    tick-interval: 30
    wakeup-interval: 30
    extra-height-up: false
    extra-height-down: false

  # A list of custom activation types.
  # ► name = The name of the activation type.
  # ► entity-matcher = A list of conditions to filter entities. Only one of these conditions needs to be met for an entity to match.
  # ► If an entity matches multiple activation types, the one highest in the list will be used. The conditions accept the following formats:
  #   - Entity type matching    |   Uses the entity type's identifier.  |  'minecraft:zombie' matches zombies, but for example not husks or drowned.
  #   - Typeof class matching   |   Uses the 'typeof:' prefix.          |  'typeof:monster' matches all monsters.
  # ► Available typeof classes: mob, monster, raider, neutral, ambient, animal, water_animal, flying_animal, flying_monster, villager, projectile.
  custom-activation-types:
    - name: 'raider'
      activation-range: 48
      tick-interval: 20
      wakeup-interval: 20
      extra-height-up: true
      extra-height-down: false
      entity-matcher:
        - 'typeof:raider'

    - name: 'water'
      activation-range: 16
      tick-interval: 20
      wakeup-interval: 60
      extra-height-up: false
      extra-height-down: false
      entity-matcher:
        - 'typeof:water_animal'

    - name: 'villager'
      activation-range: 16
      tick-interval: 20
      wakeup-interval: 30
      extra-height-up: false
      extra-height-down: false
      entity-matcher:
        - 'typeof:villager'

    - name: 'zombie'
      activation-range: 16
      tick-interval: 20
      wakeup-interval: 20
      extra-height-up: true
      extra-height-down: false
      entity-matcher:
        - 'minecraft:zombie'
        - 'minecraft:husk'

    - name: 'monster-below'
      activation-range: 32
      tick-interval: 20
      wakeup-interval: 20
      extra-height-up: true
      extra-height-down: true
      entity-matcher:
        - 'minecraft:creeper'
        - 'minecraft:slime'
        - 'minecraft:magma_cube'
        - 'minecraft:hoglin'

    - name: 'flying-monster'
      activation-range: 48
      tick-interval: 20
      wakeup-interval: 20
      extra-height-up: true
      extra-height-down: false
      entity-matcher:
        - 'minecraft:ghast'
        - 'minecraft:phantom'

    - name: 'monster'
      activation-range: 32
      tick-interval: 20
      wakeup-interval: 20
      extra-height-up: true
      extra-height-down: false
      entity-matcher:
        - 'typeof:monster'

    - name: 'animal'
      activation-range: 16
      tick-interval: 20
      wakeup-interval: 60
      extra-height-up: false
      extra-height-down: false
      entity-matcher:
        - 'typeof:animal'
        - 'typeof:ambient'

    - name: 'creature'
      activation-range: 24
      tick-interval: 20
      wakeup-interval: 30
      extra-height-up: false
      extra-height-down: false
      entity-matcher:
        - 'typeof:mob'
Guide Server Information Staff Team

Staff Team

Meet our dedicated staff team who help keep NightshadeSMP running smoothly.

Administrators

Rendrin Rendrin Owner
TheRealPetePeril TheRealPetePeril
View Role Details

Responsibilities

  • Server ownership, infrastructure management, and strategic direction
  • Final decision-making authority on all server matters
  • Handling appeals, complex situations, and policy development
  • Overseeing plugin configuration, technical setup, and server performance

Powers

  • Full administrative access to all server systems and commands
  • Console access and server file management
  • Ability to modify any aspect of server configuration

Authority Limits

  • Expected to follow server rules and set example for community behavior
  • Major policy changes should consider community feedback when appropriate

Senior Moderator

denverkid Denverkid
View Role Details

Responsibilities

  • Coordinating and supporting the moderation team
  • Handling complex moderation situations and appeals
  • Training and mentoring Moderators and Helpers
  • Enforcing server rules and managing player reports
  • Making judgment calls on edge cases and policy interpretation

Powers

  • Full moderation commands (kick, ban, mute, warn)
  • Full access to ledger system for rollbacks
  • Access to all moderation logs and reports
  • Ability to override lower staff decisions when necessary
  • Limited administrative commands for server management

Authority Limits

  • Cannot modify server configuration or technical settings

Moderators

LowBattMouse LowBattMouse
OlegBoleg OlegBoleg
GritBorn GritBorn
View Role Details

Responsibilities

  • Enforcing server rules and maintaining community standards
  • Responding to player reports and handling rule violations
  • Issuing warnings, mutes, kicks, and bans as appropriate
  • Assisting players with questions and directing them to resources
  • Monitoring chat and voice channels for issues

Powers

  • Moderation commands: /warn, /mute, /kick, /ban
  • Limited access to ledger systems to assist with investigations
  • Access to moderation logs and player history
  • Ability to view and manage player reports
  • Ability to whitelist and accept players into NightshadeSMP

Authority Limits

  • Permanent bans require Senior Moderator or Administrator approval
  • Complex or controversial situations should be escalated to Senior Moderator/admin
  • No access to server configuration or administrative functions

Helpers

Alphalolo Alphalolo
LucidDreaming69 LucidDreaming69
dxprive_beast05 dxprive_beast05
View Role Details

Responsibilities

  • Welcoming new players and answering basic questions
  • Directing players to the correct staff member for moderation, or technical issues
  • Promoting a friendly and helpful environment in chat and voice
  • Reporting any observed rule breaks or concerns to a Moderator or higher

Powers

  • None in-game (no commands whatsoever)
  • Discord role for visibility only (can see some staff channels)

Authority Limits

  • Zero enforcement authority, Helpers are not moderators
  • Must never issue warnings, mutes, kicks, or tell players what they can/can't do
  • Cannot speak "on behalf of staff" in a way that sounds like an official ruling
  • If a situation requires action, the Helper's only job is to politely redirect the player to a Moderator or Senior Moderator
Guide Server Information Staff Code of Conduct

Staff Code of Conduct

This document outlines the professional standards and expectations for all NightshadeSMP staff members. Its purpose is to promote transparency and clearly communicate what every player can expect from our team.

By holding staff to these standards, we ensure fair, consistent, and respectful moderation that supports a positive and enjoyable experience for all.

Scope and Applicability

These expectations apply to the full staff team:

  • Admins
  • Senior Moderators
  • Moderators
  • Event Masters
  • Helpers

Event Masters and Helpers do not possess moderation permissions or enforcement tools. However, as representatives of the server, they are held to the same core behavioral standards in all interactions and community engagement.

Core Expectations

Staff members are expected to uphold the highest standards of conduct, serving as role models for the community and embodying the server's rules and guidelines.

Professional Conduct

  • Treat every player with respect, patience, fairness, and dignity, regardless of personal opinions, history, or circumstances.
  • Maintain composure and communicate clearly and calmly, even during frustrating or heated situations.
  • Avoid favoritism, bias, or allowing personal relationships to influence decisions or actions.
  • Preserve confidentiality for internal staff discussions, player reports, and sensitive information.

Fair and Consistent Moderation

  • Apply server rules evenly and impartially to all players, without exception for friends, regulars, or any individual.
  • Adhere to the established three-strike framework for most offenses (warning → temporary ban → permanent ban), escalating only when necessary and justified.
  • Reserve immediate or severe actions (such as bans) for clear, serious violations, including griefing, cheating, harassment, or exploits.
  • Document incidents accurately, promptly, and factually to ensure accountability and consistency.

Integrity and Accountability

  • Exercise staff permissions and tools responsibly, using them solely for legitimate moderation purposes and never for personal gain, curiosity, convenience, or advantage.
  • Report errors, oversights, or mistakes honestly and transparently; staff are expected to acknowledge and correct missteps when they occur.
  • Seek guidance from senior staff when uncertain about a situation, ensuring decisions align with community values and guidelines.

Representation of the Server

  • Model the respectful, ethical, and considerate behavior outlined in the server rules and community guidelines.
  • Foster a welcoming environment, particularly for new and returning players, by promoting kindness and inclusion.
  • Maintain respectful interactions in public or player‑facing spaces, avoiding behavior that targets, harasses, or needlessly escalates situations.

Enforcement Philosophy

Staff are entrusted with good judgment and are expected to act in the best interest of the community as a whole. While rules and procedures provide essential structure, they do not replace common sense, fairness, or thoughtful discretion.

In every case, staff prioritize:

  • Clarity in explaining actions and tying them directly to server rules.
  • De-escalation and resolution through calm communication whenever possible.
  • Proportional responses that allow players opportunities to correct behavior before escalation.

Players may reasonably expect staff to handle concerns privately when appropriate, explain decisions respectfully, and maintain neutrality at all times.

Commitment to the Community

Following the standards laid out in this Code of Conduct, the NightshadeSMP staff team commits to upholding the integrity of the server and ensuring that every player experiences fair treatment, respect, and a safe environment.

Violations of these standards by staff members are taken seriously and addressed through internal review processes, reinforcing that no one receives special treatment.

This public document reflects our dedication to transparency. For the complete server rules and guidelines that staff enforce, please refer to the in-game or Discord resources. Questions or concerns about staff conduct may be raised through appropriate channels, and we value feedback that helps strengthen our community.

Guide Commands & Features Server Commands

Server Commands

This comprehensive guide covers all features and commands available in the NightshadeSMP custom mod. These commands enhance your gameplay experience with quality-of-life features and server-specific functionality.

Menus & Navigation

/menu

Opens the main Nightshade menu interface with access to various server features and information.

/welcome

Displays the welcome dialog with server information and getting started guides.

/bulletin

Shows the server bulletin board with announcements and updates.

Playtime & Progression

/playtime

Displays your total playtime on the server in a formatted time display (days, hours, minutes).

/newcomer

Check your remaining newcomer status time. Newcomers have special protections and access to the newcomer team.

Voting & Unlocks

/vote (aliases: /votes, /voting)

Shows all voting links for the server. Vote to earn vote points for unlocking rewards!

/unlocks (aliases: /votecolors, /chatcolor)

Opens the unlocks shop where you can spend vote points to unlock:

  • Custom chat name colors
  • Custom chat text colors (carrot colors)
  • Special emojis
/unlocks refresh

Manually refresh your vote data from voting sites (rate-limited to prevent spam).

/emojis

Shows the emojis you can equip next to your name.

/emojis shop

Browse and purchase emojis with tokens earned from voting.

Tokens & Currency

/token give <player> <amount>

Give tokens to another player. Tokens can be used to purchase emojis and other cosmetic features.

  • Cannot give tokens to yourself
  • Recipient must be online
/token withdraw <amount>

Convert your digital tokens into physical token items that you can carry in your inventory.

  • Requires inventory space
  • Cannot withdraw more than you have

Statistic Events

/event

Toggle the event scoreboard on/off. When enabled, shows a personalized leaderboard with:

  • Top 10 players for the current event
  • Your personal rank and score
  • Time remaining in the event

The scoreboard is personalized - you'll always see where YOU rank even if you're not in the top 10!

Player Information

/who

Lists all currently online players with their nicknames (if set).

/who <player>

Shows brief information about a specific player including playtime, vote points, and warnings (if staff).

Locator Bar

/locator

Opens the locator bar customization dialog where you can configure your waypoint finder settings.

/locator enable

Enables the locator bar feature.

/locator disable

Disables the locator bar feature.

/locator range <blocks>

Sets the detection range for the locator (how far away it can find waypoints).

/locator color <color>

Changes the color of your locator bar display.

/locator reset

Resets all locator settings to default values.

Gameplay Features

/phantom

Toggle phantom spawning for yourself. When disabled, phantoms will not target or attack you.

  • Beta feature - report any issues to staff
  • Do not AFK unprotected even with phantoms disabled
/nosleep

Request that other players don't sleep during the night. When active:

  • You signal to others you're active during night
  • Players trying to sleep will see a notification
  • Your request expires at sunrise
  • Can be toggled on during day (queues for next night)
/nosleep status

Check your current no-sleep status (off, queued, or active) and see time remaining.

/nosleep list

View all players currently requesting no-sleep with their status and remaining time.

Utility Commands

/discord

Provides a link to join the NightshadeSMP Discord server.

/afk

Toggles your AFK (Away From Keyboard) status to let other players know you're away.

/nick

Allows you to change your display name in-game. Your nickname also applies to Discord.

/roll or /roll <max>

Roll a random number. Default is 1-100, or specify your own maximum. Results are broadcast to nearby players.

/map

Opens the server map in your browser or shows the map link.

Guide Rules & Guidelines Community Guidelines

Community Guidelines

Our community guidelines help maintain a positive, respectful environment for all players.

Be Respectful

Treat all members with respect and kindness. Discrimination or harassment of any kind will not be tolerated.

Be Considerate

If your actions or words make others uncomfortable, stop. Even if you don't understand their discomfort, respect their feelings.

Be Ethical

Uphold integrity and honesty in all interactions. Cheating, exploiting, or any form of unethical behavior will not be tolerated.

Use Common Sense

Think before you act. If something feels wrong, it probably is. Use your best judgment to contribute positively to our community.

Respect Diverse Beliefs

Minecraft is a global community with diverse values. Focus on enjoying the game together rather than debating beliefs.

Zero Tolerance for Harassment

Harassment or advocating violence will result in an immediate ban.

Guide Rules & Guidelines Building Guidelines

Building Guidelines

Our server is divided into different zones, each with specific building rules and purposes.

Spawn

The Spawn area is viewable on the live map. It includes the entire Plains biome and surrounding trees.

Minigames District

This area is for community games and experiences. View the district on the live map.

Shopping District

This area is for player-trading shops only. View the district on the live map.

Open World

Nether

The End

Farms

Guide Rules & Guidelines Allowed Client Mods

Allowed Client Modifications

We're friendly to most non-cheaty client mods. If you're unsure, ask us!

Allowed Mods

Important Note:

Using free cam or minimap to find structures for personal gain is forbidden. Suspicious digging patterns may lead to a ban.

You may use free cam to light up caves for farming efficiency.