What Is FirstJoinMessages and Why Your Server Needs It
Running a Minecraft server is about more than just blocks and biomes — it is about building a community. The moment a new player logs in for the first time sets the tone for their entire experience. FirstJoinMessages is a lightweight plugin that automates a warm, informative welcome every time someone joins for the very first time. Instead of a silent spawn point, you can display custom messages, server rules, and even fun facts. This simple addition makes your server feel alive and cared for, encouraging players to stay and explore.
Installing FirstJoinMessages on Your Server
Getting started with FirstJoinMessages is straightforward, even if you are new to server administration. The plugin is designed for Bukkit, Spigot, and Paper environments, which power the majority of multiplayer servers today. Follow these steps to set it up:
- Download the FJM.jar file from the official plugin repository.
- Access your server files via FTP or your hosting control panel.
- Navigate to the plugins folder and upload the jar file.
- Restart your server completely — a reload is not enough to register new plugins.
- Once the server is back online, a configuration file will be generated automatically.
If you are managing multiple plugins, keeping everything organized can become a chore. Many server owners also enjoy tweaking client-side mods for a unified experience. Similar welcome-message mods for single-player or custom launchers can be easily installed via the foxygame.net launcher — a convenient, flexible, and modern Minecraft launcher where you can download mods right from the menu. This helps bridge the gap between server-side polish and personal gameplay enhancements.
Configuring the Welcome Messages
After installation, open the generated config.yml file inside the FirstJoinMessages folder. The plugin uses a clean YAML structure that anyone can edit with a simple text editor. Here is a breakdown of the key settings:
Server Name and Color Options
The servername field lets you define how your server appears in the messages. Use the placeholder %servername% to insert it dynamically. The yellow option, when set to true, automatically formats all join messages in the default yellow color. If you prefer to use your own color codes with the & symbol, simply set this to false and add codes like &a for green or &b for aqua.
Custom Join Messages
You can define up to six welcome messages using the keys joinmsg0 through joinmsg5. Each line supports the %player% placeholder, which inserts the new player’s name. To disable any line, replace its text with DISABLED. A typical configuration might look like this:
- joinmsg0: 'Welcome %player%, to %servername%'
- joinmsg1: 'View rules using /rules'
- joinmsg2: 'Have a nice day'
- joinmsg3: '' (empty — no message)
- joinmsg4: ''
- joinmsg5: ''
Each message appears on its own line in chat, visible only to the joining player. This prevents spam for others while giving newcomers all the information they need. You can include tips, Discord links, or even a friendly joke to break the ice.
Commands and Permissions
FirstJoinMessages includes a few handy commands for server staff. These allow you to test the welcome messages or simulate a player leaving, which is useful for debugging or creating tutorials.
Available Commands
- /fakejoin — Triggers the first-join messages as if a new player had just logged in. Great for previewing your configuration.
- /fakequit — Simulates a player quitting, showing any configured leave messages (if extended with other plugins).
Permission Nodes
To control who can use these commands, assign the following permissions with a permissions manager like LuckPerms:
- firstjoinmessages.fake.fakejoin — Allows use of /fakejoin.
- firstjoinmessages.fake.fakequit — Allows use of /fakequit.
- firstjoinmessages.fake.* — Grants access to both commands.
- /new — This command does not require any special permission and can be used by anyone to see the welcome message again (if enabled in config).
By default, only operators can use the fake commands, but you can easily extend them to moderators or builders to help onboard new members.
Why FirstJoinMessages Stands Out
Unlike bloated all-in-one plugins, FirstJoinMessages does one thing and does it well. It is compatible with almost every Minecraft version and runs without noticeable performance impact. The configuration is self-explanatory, and the plugin works perfectly alongside other essentials like Bssentials, BSwear, or Shortcuts, as the developer recommends. You can craft a complete new-player experience by combining a welcome message with a starter kit plugin and a rules display.
Another advantage is the reliability. The plugin has been downloaded hundreds of times and maintains a simple codebase that rarely breaks with updates. Even if you are running a heavily modded server with custom biomes and mechanics, FirstJoinMessages slots in without conflicts. The clear permission structure means you never accidentally give players access to staff tools, keeping your server secure.
Final Thoughts
FirstJoinMessages transforms a mundane login into a memorable moment. By automating greetings, you free up staff to focus on gameplay while still making every new player feel seen. The easy configuration, placeholder support, and lightweight design make it a must-have for any server owner who values community. Whether you run a survival world, a creative plot server, or a minigame hub, those first few lines of chat can turn a curious visitor into a loyal regular. Install it today, customize your messages, and watch your server become a more welcoming place block by block.