Best Minecraft Server Plugins in 2025
MaximBuilding a great Minecraft server takes more than just hardware - it's about choosing the right plugins that make your server stand out. After running several servers and testing countless plugins, here's my personal selection of some very cool and innovative plugins in 2025.
Why Plugin Choice Matters
The right plugins can transform your server from basic to extraordinary. They add visual effects, improve gameplay, and create unique experiences that keep players coming back. I've focused on plugins that are either free and open-source or worth every penny if paid.
Visual & Fancy Plugins (No Resource Pack Needed)
These plugins add impressive visual effects without requiring players to download anything extra.
FancyPhysics (FREE) - Adds realistic physics effects like tree falling animations, damage particles, and visual crafting. Works from 1.19.4 to 1.21.x. The source code is available if you want to customize it.
ProdigyCape (FREE) - The most realistic cape system I've found. Players love showing off their custom capes, and this plugin makes it look professional.
EntitySize (FREE) - Change the size of any entity or player with smooth transitions. Great for custom mobs or special effects.
HologramLib (FREE, DEV LIBRARY) - A packet-based hologram API for developers (no pre-made commands). Supports Paper / Purpur / Folia on 1.19.4–1.21.x and requires PacketEvents. Features text, item & block holograms, MiniMessage/emoji, per-player visibility, and paginated leaderboards. Source code.
Essential Server Plugins Everyone Needs
These are the plugins that can form the foundation of any good server.
LuckPerms (FREE) - Still the best permissions system after all these years. Manages ranks and permissions efficiently.
FastAsyncWorldEdit (FREE) - WorldEdit but faster and more reliable. Essential for any server with building.
Chunky (FREE) - Pre-generates chunks to prevent lag when players explore new areas. A must for survival servers.
Worth the Investment: Premium Plugins
Some plugins are worth paying for if you're serious about your server.
BetterChatBubbles (PAID) - Adds chat bubbles above players' heads. Makes conversations feel more natural and immersive.
AdvancedGUI (PAID) - Create amazing interactive GUIs with a web editor. The learning curve is worth it for the results.
Server Software Choices
The foundation your server runs on matters as much as the plugins.
Paper - The standard for most servers. Better performance than vanilla Spigot.
Purpur - Paper with extra customization options.
Folia - For massive servers that need multithreading. Overkill for smaller setups.
Leaf - Something in between Paper and Folia
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best free plugin for visual effects?
FancyPhysics is hard to beat. It adds multiple effects without requiring a resource pack.
Do I need to pay for plugins to have a good server?
Not at all. Many of the best plugins are completely free. Paid plugins usually offer specialized features.
How many plugins should I use?
Quality over quantity. Too many plugins can cause lag and conflicts. Start with essentials and add gradually.
What server software is best for beginners?
Paper is the safest choice. Good performance without being too complicated to configure.
What is the best hologram library?
HologramLib is one of the most popular and reliable modern hologram libraries 😁. It is frequently updated, well-documented, easy to use, and offers a wide range of features.