[Inspiration]

I still stand firmly by my belief that it is a total waste of time to create your own server, however, here is my theory on this.


Tiles/Graphics don't matter if all they do is cover up boring, uncreative gameplay.

However, they are beyond important if your game play is of quality. This is why

There are two main factors that contribute to every and any server:

A) Community.
B) Gameplay.

Without one, the other won't really exist. Your gameplay CAN create your community, but you have to look at what you're working with. Most people are unwilling to try a new server, and when they do, they expect it to be top notch in every way possible, or they will quickly retreat to where they came.

The first impression people get will be your levels and your graphics. If these look unimpressive, people won't even bother to stay long enough to check anything else out.

However, after the inital "Wow, this looks nice" people will want content that will draw them into the server, give them stuff to do, ect.


Every player that you lose within the first 5-10 minutes due to bland looking graphics and levels is one nail in the coffin, and every player you lose in the first few hours due to lack of captivating content is another.


Summary: Impressive graphics and tiling does not make a server great, but the players they initally draw very well might.