Garry's Mod DarkRP Configuration Guide
Detailed guide for setting up and configuring DarkRP on your Garry’s Mod server
Introduction to DarkRP Configuration
DarkRP is one of the most popular gamemodes for Garry’s Mod, offering a role-playing experience where players can take on various jobs and interact in a simulated economy. This guide walks you through how to properly configure DarkRP on your Wasabi Hosting Garry’s Mod server.
Core Configuration Files
DarkRP uses several configuration files that are all located within the DarkRP modification folder:
Essential Settings Configuration
The main settings.lua file controls most aspects of how DarkRP behaves on your server:
Custom Jobs Configuration
The jobs.lua file lets you define custom roles for your server:
Balance your job distribution! A healthy server typically has about 40% law enforcement/government, 30% civilian jobs, and 30% criminal roles.
Custom Entities Configuration
The entities.lua file allows you to create buyable entities for players:
Be careful about pricing illegal items. If they’re too cheap, your economy will be flooded with money from printers!
Custom Shipments Configuration
Configure weapon shipments in the shipments.lua file:
Custom Categories
Organize your F4 menu with custom categories in categories.lua:
MySQL Database Setup
For large servers, SQLite may not be sufficient. Configure MySQL in mysql.lua:
Always use strong, unique passwords for your database and never share them with anyone!
Performance Optimization
Large DarkRP servers can experience performance issues. Use these settings for better performance:
Common Issues & Troubleshooting
Best Practices for Server Owners
- Balance your economy - Don’t make money too easy to get
- Create job diversity - Have a good mix of legal and illegal jobs
- Limit overpowered weapons - Don’t give too many powerful weapons to one team
- Consider player count - Adjust max jobs based on your average player count
- Use MySQL for large servers - SQLite can cause lag with many players
- Regular restarts - Schedule server restarts every 6-12 hours
- Backup configurations - Always backup your DarkRP configs before changes
- Test before implementing - Test changes on a development server first
The most successful DarkRP servers focus on role-playing and creating interesting scenarios rather than just giving players powerful weapons.
Map Considerations
DarkRP gameplay is heavily influenced by the map you choose:
A classic DarkRP map with good layout:
- Well-defined police/mayor areas
- Good building distribution
- Logical bank location
- Clear downtown area
Recommended Settings:
A classic DarkRP map with good layout:
- Well-defined police/mayor areas
- Good building distribution
- Logical bank location
- Clear downtown area
Recommended Settings:
A larger city map with lots of buildings:
- Many apartment buildings
- Large downtown area
- Multiple shop locations
- Good for higher player counts
Recommended Settings:
A modern city map:
- Clean visual style
- Well-organized districts
- Good performance optimization
- Multiple police stations
Recommended Settings:
By following this configuration guide, you’ll be able to create an engaging and well-balanced DarkRP server on Wasabi Hosting. Remember that the key to a successful DarkRP server is ongoing moderation and balance adjustments based on player feedback.
If you need further assistance, contact our support team.