What Is a Minecraft Server MOTD?
MOTD stands for 'Message of the Day.' In Minecraft it's the line of text shown under a server's name in your multiplayer list — your first impression before you join. Here's what it does and how servers use it.
Where you see the MOTD
Open Multiplayer and look at any server entry — the smaller text beneath the name is the MOTD. It can show the server's tagline, rules, current event, or player count. On listing sites like ours, the MOTD also appears on the server's detail page.
How the formatting works
MOTDs use color/format codes (the § symbol plus a letter/number, e.g. §a for green) to add color and styles. Modern servers can also use JSON chat components for richer text. The codes render as colored lines in the client.
Why servers care about it
A good MOTD sells the server at a glance. It's also how owners prove ownership on some platforms — our add-server flow asks you to embed a verification token in your MOTD. Browse any server on our list to see live MOTDs.
Reviewed by the MC Monitor Editorial Team. Our editorial team researches server listings, verifies live status data, and keeps these guides current. Last review: June 2026.