Pick your multiplayer setup before you build
In Palworld, a co-op world is an invite-code world hosted from one player's save. It is the quickest way to start, but it only exists while that host is running the session. A dedicated server is a separate server world, so it can stay online even when the host is not in-game. If your group usually plays at the same time, co-op is the fastest start. If schedules are all over the place, a dedicated server from day one is usually less hassle.
Once everyone joins, create or join the same Guild (the in-game team system). Guilds use a shared base cap, so merging late can force Palbox cleanup if your combined bases are already over the limit.
Co-op setup (fastest start)
- Host creates a new world with clear difficulty and death/drop settings before inviting anyone.
- Enable multiplayer and share the invite code only with your group.
- Have all players join first, then form one Guild, then place your first base together.
- Keep building compact at first; spreading too fast causes confusion over storage, crafting stations, and Pal assignments.
- At session end, the host should exit cleanly so saves finish without hiccups.
Dedicated server setup (stable long-term)
- Pick one host method: your own PC/server or a hosting provider, then keep uptime (time online) consistent for your group's active hours.
- Set server name, server password, and admin password immediately; do not leave admin access open.
- Confirm everyone is on a compatible build/platform. If Xbox or PS5 players will join, deploy as a Community Server so consoles can connect through the in-game list.
- Start with conservative limits (moderate player count, moderate build sprawl) and increase only after testing stability.
- Back up your world save regularly, especially before updates or config changes.
If your Palworld session starts lagging (rubber-banding, delayed hits, or stuttering AI), treat it as a server-load issue first: cut concurrent heavy activity, avoid mega-factories in one spot, and trim unnecessary roaming base Pals. Small, steady tuning beats emergency rebuilds later.