Valheim World Modifiers and Presets on a Dedicated Server
Valheim lets you change difficulty without mods through world modifiers. On a dedicated server these are set with launch options.
Presets
A preset applies a ready-made group of modifiers. Use the -preset option followed by the preset name. Names in current versions include casual, easy, normal, hard, hardcore, immersive and hammer, but check the dedicated server readme for the current list.
Example: -preset hard
Individual modifiers
Use -modifier followed by a key and a value. You can repeat it for several keys. Common keys are:
- combat: how hard enemies hit and how much they take.
- deathpenalty: what you lose when you die.
- resources: how much you receive from gathering.
- raids: how often raids occur.
- portals: portal restrictions.
Values are words such as none, less, more, easy, hard, casual or hardcore, depending on the key. Not every value works with every key. Check the readme or the in-game world creation screen to see valid values for your version.
Example: -modifier raids none -modifier deathpenalty casual
Set flags (keys)
Some options are toggled with -setkey. Examples include nomap, which disables the map, and playerevents. Only use keys documented in the readme, and treat unfamiliar ones with caution.
Apply changes
- Stop the server.
- Edit the startup command or startup variables in the panel and add your options.
- Start the server and check the console for any warnings about invalid values.
Tips
- A preset plus a few modifiers is easier to manage than many individual modifiers.
- Modifiers apply to the world, so all players are affected.
- Test the settings in a copy of your world first if you have a long running save.
- Back up before making major changes.
If an option is rejected, the console usually names it. Contact us on Discord for help.