Skip to content

Getting started — how to join

What you need and the exact steps to get on the server for the first time.

Requirements

  • Arma 2: Operation Arrowhead (Steam). The base Arma 2 game is also required — and you must launch it at least once (see below).
  • The DLC the mission uses (BAF, PMC, ACR). If you hit issues, note that some clients have been fixed by not installing the BAF/ACR DLC — OA itself is always required.
  • Our modpack — see Mods & modpack. Modpack contents may change between sessions; check that guide for the current list before each event.

First-time setup

  1. Run base Arma 2 once. Combined Operations (Arma 2 + OA) transfers assets from Arma 2 into OA, which the server needs. To confirm it worked: Main menu → Singleplayer → Editor and check that Chernarus appears in the map list.
  2. Install the modpack and enable it via Steam launch options or the in-game expansions menu.
  3. Launch with Combined Operations ("Play Arma 2: Operation Arrowhead" / Combined Operations), then Direct Connect to the server.

Connecting

The current server IP is pinned in the Discord and shown live on the Servers page (with player count and map). Use Multiplayer → Direct Connect with that IP.

Always run with at least:

-noSplash -malloc=system -world=empty

-malloc=system is the important one — it prevents the game freezing/crashing every few hours. Full mod parameters are in Mods & modpack.

What's on the server

The mission (WASP Warfare V2, Build 89) has several features beyond a standard Warfare game. Notable ones:

  • Supply helicopters — Support pilots can run supplies by air once the Supply upgrade is high enough. See Supply missions.
  • Insurgents (3rd side) — a playable guerrilla faction hostile to both BLUFOR and OPFOR, when the server has it enabled. More in General information.
  • AI Commander, Naval HVT, ICBM, Team Menu V2, and more — see General information for a full overview of what the mission includes.
  • Permanent daytime — Build 89 ships with the day/night cycle defaulting to daytime. Night remains available as a server parameter.
  • Team Menu V2 — the in-game team menu now includes gear presets (save and rebuy your loadout in one click), a rebuy button, and squad-order actions. See the WF menu in-game.

If you can't get on

Most join problems are covered step-by-step in Troubleshooting: kicked on join, failed to launch (Windows 11 24H2), BattlEye GUID errors, crashing, and freezing. If you're still stuck after that, ask in the Discord #support channel.