How to Join a Pixelmon Server (2026)

Short answer: To join a Pixelmon server you need Minecraft Java Edition, the server's modpack and the server IP. On Complex Pixelmon, install the free Complex Pixelmon modpack from CurseForge, give it 4 GB of RAM, then add pixel.mc-complex.com in Multiplayer and click Join. The server runs Pixelmon Reforged 9.4.1 on Minecraft 1.21.1, and the modpack sets up that exact version for you. Pixelmon is a Java mod, so there is no Pixelmon server you can join from Bedrock.

What you need to join a Pixelmon server​

• Minecraft Java Edition on a PC, Mac or Linux computer, with a valid Microsoft account.
• A modpack launcher: the free CurseForge app.
• The server's modpack and IP. For Complex Pixelmon, that's the official Complex Pixelmon modpack and pixel.mc-complex.com.

Every Pixelmon server lists its own IP and modpack. The steps below use Complex Pixelmon, but they work the same way for most Pixelmon servers.

Step 1: Install the CurseForge app​

Download and install the free CurseForge app, open it and sign in with your Microsoft account so it can launch Minecraft Java Edition.

Step 2: Install the Complex Pixelmon modpack​

Open the Complex Pixelmon modpack page and click Install. The modpack installs Minecraft 1.21.1, the NeoForge mod loader and Pixelmon Reforged 9.4.1, all at the versions the server expects. Using the official pack is the number one way to avoid joining errors.
Bonus for modpack players: when you join with the official modpack, the server gives you boosted shiny, hidden ability and nearby Pokemon spawn rates. Not on the modpack yet? Type /modpack in game.

Step 3: Give it enough memory​

Allocate 3 to 5 GB of RAM to the modpack. 4 GB is the sweet spot for most computers. Too little RAM is one of the two most common reasons players can't join. In the CurseForge app, open Settings, then Minecraft, and set Allocated Memory.

Step 4: Add the Pixelmon server IP and join​

1. Click Play on the Complex Pixelmon modpack and wait for Minecraft to load.
2. Click Multiplayer, then Add Server.
3. Enter the Pixelmon server IP: pixel.mc-complex.com
4. Click Done, select the server and click Join Server.
5. When the server asks if you want to download the Complex resource pack, click Yes so all of the server's textures show up. If you skip it, type /resourcepack in game later.

What happens on your first join​

The starter screen opens as soon as you join Complex Pixelmon for the first time. Pick your starter, and your rival shows up right after with their own partner Pokemon. Your rival then asks if you want to /rtp into the wild or explore spawn first. Track your progress any time with /journey.
From there, here's what to aim for:

• Gyms: 18 NPC gyms, one for every type. Type /gyms and click NPC Gyms. Beat all 18 to unlock the Elite Four with /e4.
• Battle Tower: earn Battle Points at /warp battletower and spend them in the Battle Tower shop.
• Custom gear: gear with abilities, only on Complex Pixelmon. See /gear.
• Claims and homes: protect your base with /claim and save spots with /sethome.
• Breeding: Elite rank and higher can open the daycare with /daycare.

Our Complex Pixelmon Server Guide covers everything else.

Is there a Pixelmon Bedrock server?​

No. Pixelmon is a mod for Minecraft Java Edition, so you can't join a Pixelmon server from Bedrock, Xbox, PlayStation, Switch or mobile. Any "Pixelmon Bedrock server" is a different game with its own add-ons, not Pixelmon. Read more in Can You Play Pixelmon on Bedrock?
Bedrock players can still play with us: join our Skyblock, Survival, Factions and Prison servers at hub.mc-complex.com on port 19132.

Common joining errors and fixes​

The two problems we see most often on Complex Pixelmon are a wrong version and not enough RAM.

• Wrong version ("outdated client", "outdated server" or "mismatched mods"): your Minecraft or Pixelmon version doesn't match the server. Install the official modpack (Step 2) and update it to the latest version in CurseForge. Don't add or remove mods yourself.
• Not enough RAM (crashes, freezing or kicked while loading): set 3 to 5 GB of RAM in CurseForge (Step 3). 4 GB works for most computers.
• Declined the resource pack by accident: type /resourcepack, or in Multiplayer select the server, click Edit, set Server Resource Packs to Enabled and join again.
• Trying to join from Bedrock or a console: Pixelmon only works on Java Edition on a computer.
• Can't connect or timed out: check the IP is spelled pixel.mc-complex.com and try again in a minute.

Still stuck? See the Modpack Install Guide & Common Fixes or ask in our Discord.

How to Join a Pixelmon Server FAQ​

What is the Complex Pixelmon server IP?​

Do I need a modpack to join a Pixelmon server?​

What version of Pixelmon do I need?​

How much RAM do I need for Pixelmon?​

Is there a Pixelmon server for Bedrock?​

How do I get my starter on Complex Pixelmon?​

Is the Complex Pixelmon server free to play?​