Arclight review
A free, open-source Java server implementation for combining mods and plugins.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
Arclight is an open-source Minecraft Java server implementation for administrators who want to combine Bukkit or Spigot plugins with mods. It supports self-hosted deployment on Windows and Linux, and is distributed as a downloadable JAR launched with Java. Its central appeal is the ability to bring plugin-based server functionality into environments built around Forge, Fabric, or NeoForge mod loaders.
The main technical strength is breadth across extension models. Arclight includes Bukkit and Spigot plugin support alongside Forge, Fabric, and NeoForge integration, using a Mixin-based server implementation. Plugin channel support, custom plugin world-generation support, and OBC/NMS class support provide additional compatibility-oriented capabilities for administrators working with more involved plugin setups. This makes Arclight a fit for servers that need both mods and plugins rather than a server focused on only one ecosystem.
Arclight is free and open source, with no paid tiers described. Deployment is administrator-led: the software is downloaded as a JAR and started through Java's command line in a self-hosted environment. That model suits operators comfortable managing their own server software, files, Java runtime, and loader configuration. It is less suitable for someone seeking a managed hosting service or a non-Java edition server. Choose Arclight when combined mod-loader and Bukkit/Spigot compatibility is the priority; choose another option when you need a managed platform or a Minecraft Bedrock-focused setup.
Arclight pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Supports Bukkit and Spigot plugins with Forge, Fabric, and NeoForge
- Free, open-source software for self-hosted Minecraft Java servers
- Deploys as a downloadable JAR with Java command-line launching
- Where it doesn't
- Limited to Minecraft Java Edition
- Requires self-hosted deployment and local Java command-line setup
- Compatibility depends on supported loaders and Bukkit/Spigot plugin APIs
Arclight fact sheet, pricing and score →
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