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How to Join Servers on Xbox

Palworld Guide • Updated Jan 6, 2026

How to Join Dedicated Servers on Xbox

Unlike the Steam version of Palworld, the Xbox (and PC Game Pass) version does not currently support Direct IP connection. This means you cannot simply type in an IP address and port to join.

Instead, you must find your server via the in-game Community Server List. This guide explains how to join a server and, importantly, how server owners must configure their server to be visible on Xbox.

For Players: How to Join

Follow these steps to find and join your server:

  1. Launch Palworld on your Xbox console.
  2. Select Join Multiplayer Game from the main menu.
  3. Click on Community Servers (not Official Servers).
  4. Use the Search Bar at the top of the screen.
    • Type in the exact name (or part of the name) of your server.
    • Tip: If the server has a generic name like "Palworld Server", it will be impossible to find. Ask your admin for the unique server name.
  5. Select the server from the list and click Join.
  6. Enter the server password if one is set.

For Server Admins: Making Your Server Visible

If your players cannot find your server on Xbox, it is likely because the server is not configured to broadcast to the Xbox Community List. Required settings include:

1. Enable Xbox Platform Support

In your `PalWorldSettings.ini`, you must ensure the platform is set correctly. If you are hosting specifically for Xbox/GamePass players:

AllowConnectPlatform=Xbox

If you are hosting a Steam server but want Crossplay (allowing Xbox players to join):

AllowConnectPlatform=Steam
UnrealEngine > World Settings > EnableCrossplay=True (This varies by host)

2. Enable Public Lobby

You MUST add the following flag to your server's startup command line. Without this, the server will not publish itself to the list, and Xbox players cannot join.

-publiclobby

3. Set a Unique Name

Since Xbox players rely on search, a unique name is critical. Change `ServerName` in your settings to something distinct.

  • Bad: "My Server", "Palworld"
  • Good: "IronGate High Rates PVP", "ClanBase Alpha 2025"

Troubleshooting

Server not showing up in the list

  • Wait 5-10 Minutes: After a restart, it can take time for the master server to register your server.
  • Check Version: Ensure your Xbox client and the server are on the same version. Xbox updates sometimes lag behind Steam updates.
  • Search Query: The Xbox search is case-sensitive in some versions. Try typing the name exactly.
  • Pagination: The list only loads 200 servers at a time. If you have a common name, you might be buried on page 50.

"Connection Timed Out"

This is a common issue on Xbox.

  • Restart your game completely (Quit from the dashboard).
  • Ensure your internet NAT type is Open.
  • If the server is password protected, sometimes removing the password temporarily can fix connection glitches.

FAQ

Q: Can I use Direct Connect on Xbox?

A: No. As of early 2025, the "Direct Connect" button (IP/Port) is exclusive to the Steam version. Xbox players generally must use the Community Server browser.

Q: Can Xbox players join Steam servers?

A: Yes, but only if the Steam server has Crossplay enabled. Not all hosting providers support this easily, as it often requires specific startup flags (`-publiclobby`) and sometimes Epic Games Store API authentication.

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