Procedural maps
Startup → WORLD_SIZE (1000-6000, default 3000) and WORLD_SEED (any number; empty = random each wipe). Preview seeds on rustmaps.com before committing.
| Size | Players it suits | RAM | Generation |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1500-2000 | up to 20 | 8 GB | 1-2 min |
| 3000-3500 | 50-100 | 8-12 GB | 3-5 min |
| 4000-4500 | 100-200 | 12-16 GB | 5-10 min |
Bigger is not better for small groups: a 4500 map with ten players is empty. 2500-3000 is the sweet spot for a friends server.
Custom maps
Set MAP_URL in Startup to a direct download link of the .map file (rustmaps.com custom maps, Lone.Design, your own). Leave LEVEL at Procedural Map. The server downloads the map on start; players download it from the same URL on join, so the link must stay online and be fast. Custom maps must be regenerated by their author after forced wipes if the map format changes.
Changing size or seed
Only takes effect on a map wipe. The old .map/.sav must be gone. See Wipes.