What version do servers run nowadays

[Random_]

I am preparing a line of configs that I am looking to release soon but I wanted to know what are the popular versions of minecraft that servers are running as their jar. Is it still 1.8 or have most upgraded to 1.16 jars and just allow backwards compatibility for players.

I just want to know important different compatibility for server jars would be for my configs.

 

[Great_Array]

Most people definitely use 1.16 jars, but it depends on what configs you're making. For example if you're making a config for a survival based land claim plugin then definitely make it compatible for 1.16. On the other hand if you're making a config for like a hardcore HCF or Duels plugin make it compatible for 1.7 & 1.8. It all depends on the plugin you're working with and the community you're trying to reach with your work! (Also all you nerds that still use 1.7 please update, you're driving plugin developers insane)

 

[ZoiBox]

I use a custom fork of 1.8

 

[Brandon]

It depends on the server, if you're going for a skyblock/survival server, I think using 1.16 is good to allow new farms, blocks, etc. However, if you're looking for more classic gamemodes like factions, practice, anything pvp-based really, 1.8 is 100% the way to go.

Another point to consider that older versions have better performance in almost all cases

 

[Polarbears]

I would say 1.8.9 is the sweet spot. Perfect for 1.7.10 compatibility and supports 1.8.9 clients by default and1.9+ assuming you are using ViaVersion or a custom fork. Like other people said though, if its a gamemode more reliant on newer updates (like a Survival server) than anything around 1.15-1.16 would be ideal.