Want to mod Hytale or run a server? Here's what's under the hood.
Server Side: Java
Hytale servers run on Java. Same as Minecraft. The dev team explained why:
"our backend team is very comfortable writing high-performance Java and that has let us heavily optimize our server code"
Makes sense. The Minecraft community already knows Java, so server operators won't start from scratch.
The server code will be shared source—you can read it. That means:
- Learning from official code
- Building compatible plugins
- Understanding game mechanics at the code level
Learning Java
Java runs on the JVM, works on any platform. If you want to learn:
- MOOC's Object Oriented Programming with Java (free)
- Udemy Java courses
- Codecademy
The Server Setup Guide covers getting a server running.
Client Side: C#
The game client uses C#. Object-oriented, statically typed, commonly used in game development (Unity uses it).
Unlike servers, client code won't be shared source. They want consistent, secure gameplay.
NPC Behaviors: JSON
Easiest entry point for modding. NPC behavior uses JSON—plain text configuration files.
You can modify:
- Mob spawn rates
- NPC dialogue
- Drop tables
- Custom behaviors
No programming experience needed. Just edit text files.
What's Moddable
Hytale was built for modding. Nearly everything:
- Environments and biomes
- Weather
- Dungeons
- Monsters and NPCs
- Items and weapons
- Core mechanics
Details on advanced modding are still limited.
Where to Start
Beginners: Learn JSON. Edit config files. See what happens.
Intermediate: Pick up Java for server-side work.
Advanced: C# knowledge helps understand client behavior, though you won't have source access.
The Model Maker Guide covers creating visual assets—3D models, animations, textures.
