How to Find and Join an ARMA 3 Server

ARMA 3 is the most versatile military sandbox available, with a community that builds everything from hardcore mil-sim operations to casual King of the Hill PvP and roleplay servers like Altis Life. The variety is staggering — and so is the mod ecosystem. This guide helps you navigate ARMA 3's multiplayer landscape.

Popular Mission Types

ARMA 3's mission framework means every server can offer a completely unique experience:

• King of the Hill — Three factions compete to hold a single zone. Fast-paced PvP with respawns and vehicle combat. • Altis Life / Roleplay — Civilian life sim with police, gangs, and economy. Players create characters and roleplay. • Wasteland — Open-world PvP survival with looting and base building. • Zeus — A Game Master controls the mission in real-time, placing enemies, objectives, and events. • Mil-Sim / Custom Operations — Organized military simulation with realistic tactics, radio comms (TFAR/ACRE), and unit structure. • Antistasi — Dynamic guerrilla campaign against occupying forces. • Exile/Epoch — Survival mods with crafting, base building, and zombies.

Managing Mods

Most ARMA 3 servers require mods. The ARMA 3 Launcher (built into Steam) handles mod management — you can subscribe to mods via Steam Workshop and the launcher will load them automatically.

Many communities provide mod preset files (.html) that you can import into the launcher to get exactly the right mod set. Check the server's Discord or website for these presets.

Common mod frameworks include CBA_A3 (required by most mods), ACE3 (realistic medical and interaction), TFAR or ACRE2 (tactical radio communication), and RHS or CUP (additional weapons, vehicles, and maps).

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