How to Set Up a Cobblemon Server in 2026

What is Cobblemon?

Cobblemon is an open-source Pokemon mod for Minecraft that lets you catch, battle, and trade Pokemon in your Minecraft world. With over 25 million downloads, it has become the go-to Pokemon experience for Minecraft players, effectively replacing Pixelmon as the community favorite.

What sets Cobblemon apart is its voxel-style models that blend seamlessly into Minecraft's aesthetic. Instead of high-poly models that look out of place, Cobblemon's Pokemon feel like they belong in the game. The mod supports both Fabric and NeoForge, giving you flexibility in how you run your server.

On a server, Cobblemon really shines. Players can battle each other, trade Pokemon, explore together, and compete to complete their Pokedex. It's one of the most popular reasons people set up modded Minecraft servers in 2026.

Choosing Your Modpack

There are several Cobblemon-based modpacks available, each offering a different experience. Here's what you need to know about the most popular options:

Server Requirements & RAM Guide

The amount of RAM your server needs depends on which modpack you choose and how many players you expect. Here's a breakdown:

Option A: Quick Setup with ModReady

The fastest way to get a Cobblemon server running. No Java installation, no port forwarding, no config files. Your server is online in minutes.

1. Pick your Cobblemon modpack from the ModReady checkout page
2. Choose a plan based on the RAM table above (Starter works for small groups on base Cobblemon, Pro for COBBLEVERSE or larger communities)
3. Name your server and complete checkout
4. Share your server address with friends and start playing

ModReady pre-configures everything: the correct Java version, optimized RAM flags, and the full modpack with all dependencies. You also get automatic backups, DDoS protection, and a custom subdomain.

Option B: Self-Hosting Your Server

If you prefer to run the server yourself, here's the step-by-step process. You'll need a computer that can stay on while you want the server available.

Requirements

• Java 21 (required for all Minecraft 1.21.x packs)
• At least 6 GB of available RAM (8+ GB recommended)
• A stable internet connection
• Access to your router for port forwarding

Step 1: Install Java 21

Download Java 21 from Adoptium (recommended) or Oracle. Verify the installation:

java -version # Should show: openjdk version "21.x.x"

Step 2: Download the Server Pack

Download your chosen Cobblemon modpack's server files from CurseForge or Modrinth. Make sure you download the server pack, not the client pack.

Step 3: Extract and Configure

1. Create a new folder for your server (e.g., cobblemon-server)
2. Extract the server pack into this folder
3. Open server.properties and configure:
   • server-port=25565 (default)
   • max-players=20
   • online-mode=true (keep true for security)
   • motd=My Cobblemon Server

Step 4: Set RAM Flags and Start

Create a start script. On Windows, create start.bat. On Mac/Linux, create start.sh:

java -Xmx6G -Xms6G -jar server.jar nogui

Adjust -Xmx6G based on the RAM table above. Run the script, accept the EULA by editing eula.txt to eula=true, then run again.

Step 5: Open Port 25565

Log into your router (usually at 192.168.1.1) and forward port 25565 TCP to your computer's local IP address. See our port forwarding guide for step-by-step instructions.

Connecting Players

Once your server is running, players need to connect with the matching Cobblemon client:

1. Install the same modpack on each player's client using CurseForge, Modrinth, or a launcher like Prism Launcher
2. Make sure versions match exactly - the client modpack version must match the server version
3. Add your server in Minecraft's multiplayer menu:
   • Managed hosting: Use your yourserver.play.modready.gg address
   • Self-hosting: Share your public IP (find it at whatismyip.com)
4. Connect and play - Pokemon will start spawning in your world immediately

Common Issues & Fixes

Pro Tips for Server Owners