How to make a hardcore Minecraft server

To run a hardcore server, set hardcore=true in server.properties before the world is created, then start the server. In hardcore mode the difficulty is locked to hard, and players who die become spectators.

Enable hardcore#

1. Stop the server.
2. Edit server.properties:

hardcore=true
difficulty=hard

3. Generate a new world so it is created as hardcore. Either delete the old world folders or set a new level-name. See generate a new world.
4. Start the server.

Players see hardcore hearts in their health bar when it is working.

Setting it on a fresh world is the reliable approach. Turning it on for an existing world may not fully apply, because the world also stores its own hardcore flag.

How hardcore works on a server#

A server keeps running after deaths, so hardcore servers work well for "last one alive" events or seasons that end when everyone is out.

Reviving a player#

An op can bring someone back:

gamemode survival PlayerName

They return at their current spectator location, so teleport them somewhere safe first if needed:

tp PlayerName 0 80 0

Hardcore tips#

• Back up before starting. Snapshots let you roll back if a bug or lag spike kills someone unfairly. See back up your Minecraft world.
• Reduce lag deaths. Keep simulation-distance reasonable and make sure the server has enough memory, because lag in hardcore is costly. See view distance and simulation distance.
• Use a whitelist so random players do not join and die immediately. See set up a whitelist.
• Agree on rules for things like PvP. See PvP and peaceful settings.

Hardcore not working?#

• No hardcore hearts: the world was created before you set hardcore=true. Create a new world.
• Players respawn normally: check there is only one hardcore= line and that it is true.
• On Paper, a plugin that handles deaths or respawns can override spectator mode. Check your plugins.