For Server Owners

How to Make an Eye-Catching Metin2 Server Banner

How to Make an Eye-Catching Metin2 Server Banner

On server lists, players look at the images first; whether they click on a server is often decided in a few seconds, just by looking at the banner. A good Metin2 server banner shows the server's name, its type and its strongest point at a glance. This guide covers how to make an eye-catching banner, from the technical dimensions to design principles.

Technical dimensions and file format

On Metin2PvpServarlar.com, the recommended banner size is 468×190 pixels; the file can be at most 2 MB and is uploaded in JPG, PNG or GIF format. In the list, the banner is placed in an area with this aspect ratio. If you upload an image with a different ratio, its edges may get cropped, so design at this size from the start.

Format When to choose it What to watch out for
JPG Designs built mainly on in-game screenshots or photos If you lower the quality too much, the edges of your text get blurry
PNG Sharp text, logos and flat areas of color File size can grow with photo-heavy designs
GIF Short, looping animated banners The number of colors is limited; file size grows fast as you add frames

Keeping the file as far below the 2 MB limit as possible makes your banner load faster, especially if it's an animated GIF.

What should be on your banner?

  • Server name: The biggest and most readable element of the banner. Write it exactly the way it appears in your promotions and on your website.
  • Level range and type: A short phrase like "1-99 Oldschool" lets players see right away whether the server suits them.
  • One strong message: The opening date, "New season" or the one feature that sets you apart. More than one message means none of them gets read.
  • A simple background: You can use an in-game scene from your own server; darken or blur the background slightly so the text stays readable.

Don't try to cram details such as rates, systems and events into the banner; they belong in your description. We explain how to fill in the other fields of the add server form in our server submission guide.

Design principles for readability

  • Test it at a small size: Your banner appears small in the list, especially on phones. Shrink your design and take a look; if the server name is still easy to read, you're on the right track.
  • Use strong contrast: Light text on a dark background, dark text on a light one. If needed, add a subtle shadow or a semi-transparent strip behind the text.
  • Use at most two fonts: Save a decorative font for the server name; pick a simple, bold font for everything else.
  • Leave margins: Don't push important text against the edges. Keep it near the center in case the image gets cropped.
  • Less text, more space: Don't go beyond three lines. Empty space draws attention to the main message.

Animated GIF or static image?

Since the GIF format is supported, you can use an animated banner. Motion catches the eye, but used badly, it gets annoying:

  • Show the name in every frame: Whenever a player looks at the banner, they should be able to read the server's name.
  • Keep it short: A smooth transition of a few frames works better than a long animation and keeps the file under 2 MB.
  • Avoid flashing effects: Rapid flashes strain the eyes and can make some people feel unwell.

If you're not sure, make a static banner first. A well-designed static image often does better than a sloppy animation.

What to avoid

  • Misleading claims: Phrases you can't back up, such as "the number one server" or "thousands of active players", damage trust. Under our Membership Agreement, misleading opening dates and promises of features that don't exist are prohibited anyway.
  • Images that belong to someone else: Don't use other servers' banners or artwork you don't have the rights to. Your own screenshots or images you have permission to use are the safest choice.
  • Outdated information: If an expired opening date or a finished event stays on your banner, players will think the server has been neglected.

Upload, compare and keep it up to date

You upload the banner on the add server page when you add your server; to change it later, use the server's Edit button on the Control Panel › My Servers page. Before you upload it, take a look at the new servers list and think about how your banner will look among the others. Refresh it for a new season, a big update or an event. You can also compare two designs by tracking visits from our list in your website's visitor statistics. To fit your banner into your wider promotion plan, see our server promotion guide.

Frequently asked questions

What's the ideal size for a server banner?

468×190 pixels is recommended. The file must be at most 2 MB and uploaded in JPG, PNG or GIF format.

Can I use an animated banner?

Yes, the GIF format is supported. Keep the animation short, show the server name in every frame and stay under the 2 MB limit.

Can I change my banner later?

Yes. You can upload a new banner whenever you like with the server's Edit button on the Control Panel › My Servers page.

Should I make the banner myself or hire a designer?

You can make a simple, readable banner yourself with free design tools. If you have the budget, having the same designer create your logo and banner gives you a consistent look on your website and your Discord too.

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