First choose the project you mean. “Pixelmon Generations” can refer to the modern Generations project, an open-source Cobblemon sidemod for Minecraft 1.21.1 that supports Fabric and Forge, or to the separate official Pixelmon distribution, whose documented releases span Minecraft 1.16.5 through 1.21.1. Their files and loaders are not interchangeable. The instructions below explain how to select the correct branch, build a manual official Pixelmon server, and use a packaged launcher route when consistency matters more than file-level control.
Running a modpack with friends? Godlike.Host offers modded Minecraft server hosting with one-click modpacks (CurseForge, FTB, Technic) and free DDoS protection.
Choose the correct Pixelmon branch before downloading anything
Old tutorials often use Minecraft 1.12.2-era files. Do not follow one of those guides unless the server and every client are intentionally using that legacy release. Start by deciding which project your group will install:
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
- Modern Generations project: described by its developers as an open-source Cobblemon sidemod for Minecraft 1.21.1, with Fabric and Forge availability. Use the modpack or installation instructions supplied for that project.
- Official Pixelmon distribution: the separate Pixelmon project with release lines documented for Minecraft 1.16.5, 1.20.1, 1.20.2 and 1.21.1. The server procedure and version table below apply to this branch.
Pick one branch, one Minecraft version and one loader before you download a server jar. A Generations/Cobblemon installation cannot be repaired by adding an official Pixelmon jar, and a Pixelmon 9.3 server cannot accept a client built for an older loader.
Official Pixelmon version and loader matrix
Use the exact release listed for your chosen Minecraft version. Pixelmon 9.3.0 and newer require NeoForge; earlier branches use the loader specified by that branch’s release documentation.
#1 Best Overall
| Minecraft version | Pixelmon releases listed for that version | Loader note |
|---|---|---|
| 1.21.1 | 9.3.0–9.3.13 | Pixelmon 9.3.0 and newer require NeoForge |
| 1.20.2 | 9.2.4–9.2.10 | Use the loader specified by the selected 9.2 release |
| 1.20.1 | 9.2.0–9.2.3 | Use the loader specified by the selected 9.2 release |
| 1.16.5 | 9.1.12 | Forge branch |
CurseForge lists Pixelmon 9.1.13 as a Minecraft 1.16.5 Forge release, while the official server table lists 9.1.12 for that Minecraft version. Treat the release page for the file you actually select as authoritative, and do not combine files from those two entries without checking their stated compatibility.
What you need before creating the server
A paid Minecraft Java Edition license
Forge-based Pixelmon servers require Minecraft Java Edition. Pocket Edition, Windows 10/Bedrock and console editions cannot run Forge mods. Every player also needs a Java Edition account and the same modded client setup.
Recommended Free Tools
A compatible 64-bit Java runtime
Install 64-bit Java that matches the Pixelmon branch:
| Pixelmon branch | Required Java version |
|---|---|
| 9.3.0 and newer | Java 21 |
| 9.2.0–9.2.10 | Java 17 |
| Before 9.2.0 | Java 8 |
Check the Java executable that your server script will use, not merely the version installed for another application. A common failure is launching a 9.3 server with Java 17 or a legacy server with a much newer runtime.
Memory and a clean server folder
Allocate at least 4 GB of memory to a manual server. More is needed as the number of players, extra mods and plugins grows. Create a dedicated folder with a short, accessible path and write permission; avoid placing server files inside a protected system directory or a cloud-synchronized folder that may lock files while the server is running.
Keep backups outside this folder. Before adding world-generation mods or changing major versions, copy the world, configuration files and player data so you can roll back safely.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems2Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute3Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsManual installation: step-by-step
1. Select one exact release combination
- Choose Minecraft 1.21.1, 1.20.2, 1.20.1 or 1.16.5 from the compatibility table.
- Choose a Pixelmon release listed for that Minecraft version.
- Confirm whether that release expects Forge or NeoForge.
- Record the same three values for the client installation. The server and every player must use them unchanged.
2. Install the server loader
Download the matching Forge or NeoForge installer for the selected branch. Run it in the clean server folder and choose Install Server, not the client-install option. The installer creates the loader files and a launch script. Do not substitute a Forge installer for a NeoForge release or copy a launch command from a different Minecraft version.
3. Run the server once, then stop it
Start the generated launch script. The first run creates configuration files, libraries and the initial world, then may stop because the EULA has not been accepted. Wait for file creation to finish and use the console’s stop command when it is ready. Never close the window abruptly while the world is being saved.
4. Accept the Minecraft EULA
Open eula.txt, read the Minecraft EULA, and change eula=false to eula=true only if you agree to it. Save the file. The server will not complete normal startup while it remains false.
5. Install Pixelmon without altering the jar
Create or open the server’s mods folder and place the matching Pixelmon server jar inside it. Do not extract the jar, rename its internal contents, or run it as a standalone application. If you add sidemods, confirm that each one supports the same Minecraft version, loader and Pixelmon branch.
Crashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?
Random freezes, missing sound and display glitches usually trace back to one bad driver. Find and replace yours safely.Free scan · under a minutePC Slower Than It Used to Be?
A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 116. Regenerate a world when world-generation mods were installed late
If the first startup generated a world before Pixelmon or another world-generation mod was present, stop the server and delete that newly generated world before the final restart. Otherwise, the area around spawn may have been created without the intended generation rules. Make a backup first; deleting a world permanently removes its local terrain and player progress.
7. Start with the loader’s script
Launch the script created by the Forge or NeoForge installer and leave the console available. The Windows example in the official guidance uses -Xms3G -Xmx3G together with G1 garbage-collector flags. Those values are an example, not a universal allocation: adjust them to the machine’s available memory and workload, while ensuring the system retains enough RAM for the operating system.
Do not paste a Forge command into a NeoForge installation. Loader-specific jar names, libraries and scripts differ. Use the files generated in this server folder and change only the memory options you understand.
Plan memory, storage and operating cost
The 4 GB figure is a starting allocation, not a promise that every pack or player count will perform identically. Pixelmon’s guidance says exact requirements depend on player count and the mods or plugins installed. Leave headroom instead of assigning all physical memory to Java; the operating system, loader and file cache still need resources. If the server begins with a small group, record its memory setting and increase it only when the workload justifies the change.
A home server may use an existing computer, but that computer must remain on whenever friends want to play. You also handle backups, firewall rules, updates and recovery. A paid host adds a recurring service cost, but generally supplies an always-on machine, a public endpoint and management controls. Prices and limits vary, so compare the provider’s current US plan rather than relying on a cached offer.
Ask whether the advertised memory is dedicated, whether CPU resources are stated clearly, and whether storage, traffic or player slots impose separate limits. Confirm that the host supports your exact Minecraft, Pixelmon and Forge or NeoForge combination before paying. A low-cost plan that cannot run the selected loader is not a useful saving.
Rank #3
- The classic UNO card game builds fun on game night with a Minecraft theme.
- UNO Minecraft features a deck and storage tin decorated with graphics from the popular video game.
- Players match colors and numbers to the card on top of the discard pile as in the classic game.
- The Creeper card unique to this deck forces other players to draw 3 cards.
- Makes a great gift for kid, teen, adult and family game nights with 2 to 10 players ages 7 years and older, especially Minecraft and video game fans.
Prepare the players’ clients
Every player needs a client with the identical Minecraft version, Pixelmon version, loader and required sidemods. The easiest way to achieve this is to distribute one tested modpack or a synchronized copy of the client files. Tell players not to update individual mods independently after the server has been tested.
When a client differs from the server, the official guide reports a Mod Rejection error and blocks the connection. Compare the complete mod list, not just the Pixelmon filename: a missing dependency, an extra client-only mod accidentally placed on the server, or a different loader build can all prevent login.
Keep a simple version record containing the Minecraft version, Pixelmon build, loader build and sidemod list. Give that record to every player with the pack. When you plan an update, stop the server, back up the world and test the new files as a group; do not let one person update while others continue using the old pack.
Connect locally or over the internet
Same-network play
A local installation is suited to players on the same home or office network. Share the host computer’s local address and ensure the operating system firewall permits Java and the server process. The host must keep the server running while others play.
Remote friends
Players outside the local network need a reachable address. That normally means configuring the router and firewall for the server port, using a public address or a suitable relay, and keeping the address stable enough for your group. Do not publish a home network address unnecessarily; restrict access to people you trust and maintain backups.
If you do not control router settings, or your internet provider uses carrier-grade NAT, a home server may not be reachable even when the Minecraft process is healthy. In that case, use a managed Minecraft host or another network arrangement that supplies a reachable endpoint.
When paid hosting is the better choice
For more than a small group, the official guidance strongly recommends paid hosting for performance, stability and safety. A host keeps the machine online, handles network exposure and usually provides a control panel for restarts and backups. It does not remove the need to match Minecraft, Pixelmon and loader versions.
Compare services using the specifications that affect a modded server:
Rank #4
- Now Minecraft lovers can play a special version of UNO!
- Same as Basic UNO but features Minecraft characters and includes special Creeper rule card. Draw this card and the other players have to draw three more cards from the pile!
- The goal is to get rid of all the cards in your hand.
- First player or team to 500 wins.
- When you're down to one card, don't forget to yell "UNO"!
- Support for the exact Minecraft, Pixelmon and Forge or NeoForge release.
- Dedicated or clearly stated CPU resources, not only a memory number.
- At least 4 GB allocated RAM for the basic manual setup, with headroom for additional players and mods.
- Storage capacity and whether the disk is fast enough for world saves.
- Automated backups, backup retention and an easy restore process.
- Server location and expected latency for your players.
- Player-slot limits, traffic limits and whether a public IP is included.
- One-click modpack installation versus the ability to upload and edit files manually.
Hosting prices, limits and supported versions change frequently. Verify the provider’s current US pricing, loader support, backup policy and compatibility immediately before purchase rather than relying on an old plan description.
Use a launcher or packaged modpack when consistency matters
The official ATLauncher guidance presents a launcher-based installation as an easier route and points users toward compatible sidemods and support resources. The Generations download information likewise describes modpacks as the beginner-friendly option; individual jars require more manual setup.
Choose a packaged server-and-client pack when:
- Several friends need to install the same files quickly.
- You want dependencies and configuration files bundled together.
- You would rather update one tested pack than troubleshoot separate jar downloads.
Choose manual installation when you need to control every mod, configuration file, world seed or update. Manual control also makes it easier to isolate a problematic sidemod, but it increases the chance that one player installs a different file.
Whichever route you choose, test a clean client before inviting the group. A launcher pack is not automatically compatible simply because it contains Pixelmon; verify its Minecraft version, loader and included sidemods against the server files. Keep the original tested pack available so a player can reinstall instead of mixing files from several releases.
Troubleshoot the failures that stop players joining
“Mod Rejection” during login
- Confirm the Minecraft version on both sides.
- Confirm the exact Pixelmon release, including the minor build number.
- Confirm Forge versus NeoForge and the loader build.
- Compare every mod and dependency in the server and client packs.
- Remove an unneeded client mod from the server rather than copying everything blindly.
The server exits immediately
- Check that the selected Java major version matches the Pixelmon branch: Java 21 for 9.3.x, Java 17 for 9.2.x, or Java 8 for older releases.
- Read the first error in the console rather than the final cascade of messages.
- Verify that the loader installer was run with Install Server in the folder you are launching.
- Check that the EULA file is set to true after you have accepted it.
- Remove the most recently added sidemod and test again if the base server starts.
The world has ordinary terrain near spawn
This usually means the world was generated before Pixelmon or another world-generation mod was installed. Stop the server, back up the folder, remove the generated world and start again with the complete mod set present.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
Friends time out while the host can play
That points to reachability rather than a Pixelmon mismatch. Check the host firewall, router forwarding, public address and whether the internet connection uses carrier-grade NAT. A managed host avoids most home-router configuration, but you still need to provide players with the correct address and port.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Protect the world and make updates reversible
Before changing Minecraft, Pixelmon, the loader or a world-generation sidemod, stop the server normally and copy the world, configuration files and player data to a separate backup location. Keep more than one restore point when possible. A world regenerated with a different mod set cannot be reconstructed by simply reinstalling the old jar.
Use the console’s stop command for shutdowns so pending world data is written. Keep the console visible during the first startup after an update and read the earliest error if the process stops. Do not delete a world to fix a connection mismatch; world deletion is appropriate only when you deliberately need new generation and have preserved the old world.
A practical launch checklist
- Project branch identified: modern Generations/Cobblemon or official Pixelmon.
- Minecraft, Pixelmon and loader pairing selected from the appropriate release documentation.
- Paid Java Edition account available for every player.
- 64-bit Java version installed for the selected branch.
- At least 4 GB allocated, with additional headroom for players, mods and plugins.
- Forge or NeoForge installed with Install Server in a clean folder.
- Server started once, stopped cleanly, and the EULA accepted.
- Matching Pixelmon jar placed unmodified in
mods. - World regenerated if it was created before world-generation mods were installed.
- Identical client files distributed to every player.
- Local firewall and remote network access tested before inviting the group.
- Backups configured before adding major mods or allowing long-term progress.
Which setup should you use?
For two or three people on the same network, a manual server on a spare computer is usually the simplest arrangement: install the matching loader, allocate at least 4 GB, put the jar in mods and share the local address. For remote players or a growing community, managed hosting is the safer operational choice. For beginners who want everyone on identical files, a tested launcher modpack is less error-prone than separate manual downloads.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Frequently Asked Questions
What does “Pixelmon Generations” mean here?
It may mean the modern Generations project, an open-source Cobblemon sidemod for Minecraft 1.21.1 with Fabric and Forge support, or the separate official Pixelmon distribution. Choose the project first; their jars and loaders cannot be mixed.
How much RAM does a Pixelmon server need?
Allocate at least 4 GB for a manual server. Pixelmon’s guidance says exact requirements depend on player count and the mods or plugins installed, so larger groups and heavier packs need more headroom.
Which Java version should Pixelmon use?
Use Java 21 for Pixelmon 9.3.0 and newer, Java 17 for 9.2.0–9.2.10, and Java 8 for releases before 9.2.0. Make sure the launch script uses that runtime.
Why does my friend get Mod Rejection?
The client and server differ in Minecraft version, Pixelmon build, Forge or NeoForge loader, or a required mod. Compare the complete tested modpack and dependency list, not only the main Pixelmon filename.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Can Bedrock, console or Pocket Edition players join?
No. Forge-based Pixelmon requires Minecraft Java Edition, and the official installation guidance excludes Pocket, Windows 10/Bedrock and console editions.
Do I need NeoForge or Forge?
Pixelmon 9.3.0 and newer require NeoForge. Earlier branches use the loader named in that release’s documentation. Install the matching loader and do not copy commands between them.
Why can I play locally but friends time out?
The server is probably not reachable from outside your network. Check the firewall, router forwarding, public address and carrier-grade NAT. A managed host supplies a reachable endpoint without most home-router setup.
Should I use a manual server or a modpack?
Use a packaged launcher modpack when several players need identical files quickly. Choose manual installation when you need detailed control over jars, configuration, worlds and updates.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
Can I delete the world after installing Pixelmon?
Only if you have backed it up and deliberately need new world generation. If the world was created before Pixelmon or another generation mod was installed, deleting that initial world before the final restart lets the intended terrain generate near spawn.
The Bottom Line
Choose the exact Generations or official Pixelmon branch first, then keep Minecraft, Pixelmon, Java and Forge or NeoForge identical on every machine. Start with at least 4 GB of RAM, place the unmodified server jar in mods, accept the EULA, back up before world changes and use a tested modpack or managed host when consistency and remote access matter most.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
