---
title: "Changing the Gamemode on a Rust Server"
description: "Information on how to change the Gamemode on a Rust Server"
url: https://help.chiphead.tech/en/articles/433-changing-the-gamemode-on-a-rust-server
collection: "Rust"
updated: 2026-06-10
language: en
---

# Changing the Gamemode on a Rust Server

Information on how to change the Gamemode on a Rust Server

## Summary

Rust servers offer a variety of game modes for players to choose from. These modes expand on the standard Rust experience by keeping core mechanics while introducing limitations or convenience features that can increase or reduce difficulty. This flexibility allows servers to deliver anything from a laid-back session to a more intense and demanding challenge, depending on the style of gameplay users prefer.

### Note

> **Info:** Switching the game mode on a Rust server will fully reset all player data. To avoid losing inventories, it’s best not to change modes during an active wipe..

* * *

### How to Change the Gamemode on a Rust Server

1.  Log in to the **ChipHead Panel**.
    
    ![](https://staticfiles.gleap.io/gattachments/MH4Y00QOLvTinnQ9dCaH1oS97d26RE8ZDpKf37rGB94dv0uPtzcL0EpN9G11mHjA79WuTbSks9I.webp)
    
2.  Stop the server.
    
    ![](https://staticfiles.gleap.io/gattachments/CpqNz7fsyFbsHldNUZij3zDBU6A3WtGUYBmjEDcmvDjGVnsz7NurLRywxp15zVVrdcQksP4QhVN.png)
    
3.  Open the **Startup** tab.
    
    ![](https://staticfiles.gleap.io/gattachments/f1pHQKKyuqEJ6ULfWUV1odIdHZIHLIB3npkTpbVc7q0FTl9EL4BsQX69Yx3K7MqqH5OvYVmXa5P.png)
    
4.  In the **Additional Arguments** field, add the following:  
    `+server.gamemode "<name>"`
    
    ![](https://staticfiles.gleap.io/gattachments/mhALjAYVHct6mZiXSYbqw1ONSyBxQ71suBAzqgBmFP4pshgFvxsoB5VBzTapaiaeZyYPMhMcxl1.png)
    

**Gamemode Options**

-   **vanilla | survival** — Standard Rust experience without modifications.
    
-   **softcore** — Base gameplay with adjustments that make progression easier, such as larger team limits (up to 4 players) and more forgiving respawn mechanics.
    
-   **hardcore** — Base gameplay with reduced features for a tougher and more demanding challenge.
    

5.  Start the server.
    
    ![](https://staticfiles.gleap.io/gattachments/wqZEhtGrjRhf6y23CiNYdYoht8afsUdql89W7zrbAoyaESA2hxZoiMaxNCMF83r6nEhHBbjjrpX.png)
    

> **Info:** For More information see here: [https://wiki.facepunch.com/rust/server-gamemodes](https://wiki.facepunch.com/rust/server-gamemodes)