Rust generates the map on first start from world size and seed. Alternatively you load a ready-made custom map.
World size and seed
In the Startup variables tab:
- World size (
WORLD_SIZE) – edge length of the map in metres. Default is 3000. - World seed (
WORLD_SEED) – a number the map is generated from. The same seed and size always produce the same map.
Which size fits?
| Players at once | World size |
|---|---|
| up to 10 | 2000–2500 |
| 10–50 | 3000–3500 |
| over 50 | 4000–4500 |
Bigger maps need more memory and a longer first start – see How much memory does a Rust server need?.
Picking a seed: on sites like rustmaps.com you can preview maps for a seed and size and pick one you like.
A new size or seed only applies to a new map – i.e. after a wipe.
Loading a custom map
Load custom maps (.map file) via a direct download link:
- Upload the
.mapfile somewhere it can be downloaded directly via link (the link must point to the file itself, not a download page). - Startup variables tab → Custom map URL (
MAP_URL) → enter the link. - Restart the server.
If Custom map URL is set, world size and seed are ignored. An invalid link crashes the server – then clear the field again.
Good to know
- Level (map) (
LEVEL) is set toProcedural Map, the randomly generated map. That's right for most servers. - Your players download the map automatically when they join.