Change Server Version
Sometimes you need to switch Palworld server versions - whether for mod compatibility, platform synchronization with Xbox, or rollback from problematic updates. This guide helps you safely navigate version changes while protecting your world data.
⚠️ Critical Warning: Version switching, especially downgrading, carries risks. Always create comprehensive backups before proceeding. Some version changes may cause save incompatibility or data loss.
Common Version Change Scenarios
- Mod Compatibility: Downgrading for specific mod versions
- Cross-Platform Play: Matching Xbox or PlayStation versions
- Problematic Updates: Rolling back from buggy patches
- Testing Purposes: Testing new features or old content
- Community Requirements: Matching specific server networks
Pre-Change Checklist
🔍 Essential Preparation
- Backup Saves: Download complete world and player data
- Document Settings: Export server configuration files
- Notify Players: Warn community about planned downtime
- Check Mod Status: Verify mod compatibility with target version
- Review Patch Notes: Understand version differences
Step-by-Step Version Change
Step 1: Create Complete Backups
- Stop your server completely
- Download all save files via File Manager
- Export configuration settings
- Document current server settings and mods
Step 2: Access Version Management
- Open your server control panel
- Navigate to the Version tab
- View available version options in the dropdown menu
Step 3: Select Target Version
- Click the version dropdown menu
- Select your preferred Palworld version
- Verify the version number matches your requirements
📋 Version Availability: Not all historical versions may be available. Contact support if you need a specific version not listed in the dropdown.
Step 4: Execute Version Change
- Click Switch Version & Restart
- Wait for the installation process to complete
- Server will automatically restart with new version
- Verify successful version change in server console
Version Compatibility Considerations
| Scenario | Risk Level | Recommended Action |
|---|---|---|
| Latest → Previous Stable | 🟡 Medium | Test with backup first |
| 0.1.x → 0.2.x | 🟢 Low | Generally safe |
| 0.2.x → 0.1.x | 🔴 High | Backup critical |
| Major Patch Rollback | 🔴 High | Professional advice |
Post-Change Verification
Immediate Checks
- Server Status: Confirm server starts successfully
- Version Display: Verify correct version in console
- Save Loading: Test world load functionality
- Basic Functionality: Check core game mechanics
Player Experience Testing
- Login Process: Players can connect and authenticate
- World Integrity: Terrain and structures appear correctly
- Pal Behavior: Pals function as expected
- Inventory Access: Player data loads properly
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Version Won't Install
- Check available disk space
- Verify server isn't locked by another process
- Contact support for version availability
- Try switching to a different version first
Save Compatibility Errors
- Restore from backup if severe corruption occurs
- Check for version-specific save format changes
- Consult community forums for known issues
- Consider starting fresh world if necessary
Mod Loading Failures
- Update mods for new server version
- Remove incompatible mods temporarily
- Check mod developer update announcements
- Verify mod loading order and dependencies
Best Practices for Version Management
🛡️ Professional Tips
- Test Environment: Always test version changes in isolated environment
- Staging Server: Use secondary server for version validation
- Community Communication: Provide detailed update schedules to players
- Rollback Plan: Have documented procedure for quick reversions
- Version Log: Maintain history of changes and outcomes
Platform-Specific Considerations
Cross-Platform Play
When mixing Steam, Xbox, and PlayStation players:
- Version numbers must match exactly
- Xbox updates often lag behind Steam releases
- PlayStation may have different update schedules
- Consider lowest common version for stability
Mod Communities
- Check mod compatibility databases
- Follow mod developer update announcements
- Join community Discord for real-time support
- Document working mod versions for reference
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I skip multiple versions?
Yes, but larger version gaps increase risk of incompatibility. Test with backups first.
How long does version change take?
Typically 5-15 minutes depending on version size and server performance.
Will players lose progress?
Usually not with proper backups, but some version changes may require world resets.
Can I request specific versions?
Contact our support team or Discord community to request additional versions.
Alternative Methods
If the built-in version switcher doesn't meet your needs:
- Manual Installation: Advanced users can manually install specific server versions
- Docker Images: Use versioned Docker containers for testing
- Multiple Servers: Run parallel servers with different versions
For reliable version management and expert support, choose our Palworld hosting services with automated backups, version control, and professional assistance 24/7.