Hardware FixRecommendedDevice not working? Your driver may be the problemCheck updates for common hardware issues.Fix DriversOctober DealsAmazon USOctober deal check: compare before you payAmazon US: current deals, useful picks and tech finds.Check DealsWindows FixRecommendedWindows errors stealing your time? Find the fix fastScan stability, cleanup and performance issues.Fix Now×
Skip to content
VGSources
Blog

How to Change Sunlight Intensity on a V Rising Server

Change V Rising sunlight exposure by editing SunDamageModifier in the persistent ServerGameSettings.json, validating the JSON, and restarting the server. Lower values lengthen the time before damage; higher values shorten it.
Length9 min Posted Quest giverVGSources Team
Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

To change how long vampires can remain in sunlight on a V Rising server, edit the SunDamageModifier entry in the server’s ServerGameSettings.json, save valid JSON, and restart the server. This is an exposure-and-damage setting: it changes the time before sunlight begins hurting a player, not the game’s visual brightness or the appearance of the sun.

The setting you need

Stunlock Studios documents SunDamageModifier as the server option that “affects the duration a player may stand in the sun before starting to take damage.” The key belongs in ServerGameSettings.json, one of the two configuration files used by a dedicated server. The other file, ServerHostSettings.json, controls host-level options and can contain a named difficulty preset that changes how individual game settings are applied.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Setting Documented value What it changes What it does not change
SunDamageModifier 0 to 5; documented default 1.0 The duration of sunlight exposure before damage begins. Lower values lengthen the exposure window; higher values shorten it. It is not a display-brightness, lighting, weather, or shader control.

The official documentation defines the range and direction of the effect, but does not publish a conversion from a modifier value to a number of seconds. Treat the first change as a tuning step rather than assuming that, for example, halving the number will halve the damage timer.

Before editing: identify your server and protect the file

Self-hosted dedicated server

Use the persistent-data Settings override location identified in Stunlock’s dedicated-server instructions. That persistent location is the one the running server is expected to load and preserve. Do not rely on the defaults file shipped with the server installation: updates can replace shipped defaults and erase a change made there.

#1 Best Overall
Sale
Gaoye Blue Light Blocking Glasses
  • BLUE LIGHT BLOCKING GLASSES: Our blue light glasses for women boast UV400 protection, blocking harmful blue rays from computer screens. With these bluelight glasses women, you can enjoy gaming, reading, or watching TV with no worries of eye strain.
  • EYE RELIEF: Our blue light glasses are engineered to reduce blurry vision or strain caused by prolonged screen time. These womens blue light glasses aid in better sleep by preventing blue light from disrupting your natural sleep cycle, helping you fall asleep faster and enjoy a more restful night's sleep, making them the perfect christmas present.
  • COMFORTABLE: Crafted from durable material, our trendy blue light glasses for woman or blue light glasses men ensure long-lasting comfort. The high-transmittance lenses accessories, gamer gifts for men, help keep your eyes relaxed. Perfect stocking stuffers, gifts for gamers men, christmas gifts for men, halloween costumes.
  • LIGHTWEIGHT: These clear blue light glasses feature a lightweight frame, meaning they’ll stay comfy for long-term wear. Perfect as blue blockers glasses for women or mens blue light glasses, these non-prescription fake glasses for men can be worn throughout the day. The blue light blocking glasses women feature polycarbonate HD lenses, which are anti-reflective and restore true color.
  • WORRY-FREE PURCHASE: If you experience any issues, our support team is ready to assist you quickly. These are the perfect costume glasses for cosplay dressing up.

Managed server

A hosting provider normally gives you a control panel with stop/start controls and either a file manager or an SFTP-style file browser. The labels vary, but the file you need is still ServerGameSettings.json in the provider’s persistent settings area. If the panel exposes a separate “default,” “template,” or “generated” file, use the persistent override file instead of a package default.

Make a backup

Stop the server before changing configuration. Copy the current ServerGameSettings.json to a safe location and keep the original filename and extension in the backup. A backup lets you restore a known-good configuration if the server refuses to start or another setting is accidentally removed.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
  • Record the server version and the date of the change.
  • Back up ServerHostSettings.json as well if a difficulty preset is configured.
  • Make one intentional change at a time so you can identify which edit affected gameplay.

Step-by-step: change sunlight exposure on a dedicated server

  1. Stop the server. Use the dedicated-server process or your host’s stop command. Editing while the process is writing settings can overwrite your change or leave a partially written file.
  2. Open the persistent settings directory. Navigate to the persistent-data Settings override location specified by Stunlock’s dedicated-server documentation. Confirm that the directory contains the configuration used by your active world rather than a read-only installation default.
  3. Back up the existing file. Copy ServerGameSettings.json before opening it for editing.
  4. Open the file as plain text. Use an editor that does not add rich-text formatting, smart quotation marks, or an extra file extension.
  5. Find the key. Search for SunDamageModifier. If it already exists, change only its numeric value. If it is absent, add it as a member of the top-level JSON object.
  6. Enter a number in the documented range. The documented range is 0 through 5, with 1.0 as the default. Use a decimal such as 0.75 or 1.25 for a small adjustment. Do not put the number in quotation marks.
  7. Preserve JSON punctuation. Every property except the last one in an object needs a comma. Do not add comments, trailing commas, or duplicate copies of the same key.
  8. Validate and save. Run the file through a JSON validator or reopen it in an editor that reports syntax errors. Keep the filename exactly ServerGameSettings.json.
  9. Restart the server. Start the server after saving, then reconnect a client. Stunlock’s guidance says the vast majority of server-setting changes take effect after restarting the server or loading the game.
  10. Test in daylight. Use a controlled location and observe whether the time before the sunlight damage state begins is longer or shorter than before. If the direction is wrong, stop the server and correct the value rather than changing several settings at once.

Valid JSON examples

Adding the key to an existing object

If the file already contains other settings, add the property with a comma separating it from the preceding property:

Rank #2
Windex Gaming Cleaning Wipes, Pre-Moistened Wipes to Instantly Clean all Gaming Gear and Electronics, Resealable Packaging for a Freshness Lock, 25 count (Pack of 1)
  • WINDEX GAMING WIPES: effortlessly clean all your gaming gear and gaming electronics in one easy step with our new Windex Gaming Wipes
  • AMMONIA FREE: our ammonia-free formula is safe to use on all of your favorite gaming equipment like consoles, headsets, controllers, screens, keyboards, and more
  • PRE-MOISTENED WIPES: each wipe instantly removes dust, dirt, and stubborn smudges and fingerprints leaving a streak-free shine
  • ANTI-STATIC: great for cleaning and wiping down your gaming gear and electronics leaving behind no visible residue
  • COMPACT RESEALABLE PACKAGE: store your pack of Windex Gaming Wipes anywhere in your home for whenever a quick and easy wipedown is needed
{
  "GameModeType": "PvP",
  "SunDamageModifier": 0.75
}

The surrounding settings in your file may be different. The important details are the exact spelling and capitalization of the key, a numeric value, and valid JSON punctuation.

Editing an existing entry

{
  "SunDamageModifier": 1.25
}

Do not leave two SunDamageModifier entries in the same object. JSON parsers can handle duplicate keys inconsistently, and a later entry may silently override the first one.

Common syntax mistakes

  • "SunDamageModifier": "0.75" uses a string instead of a number.
  • "SunDamageModifier": 0.75, as the final property leaves a trailing comma in strict JSON.
  • “SunDamageModifier” uses typographic quotation marks, which are not JSON quotes.
  • A missing comma before the new property makes the entire file invalid.
  • Saving as ServerGameSettings.json.txt means the server will not load the intended file.

Choosing a value

Because Stunlock does not publish a seconds-per-value formula, choose a direction and adjust in small increments. The table describes the practical intent of each part of the documented scale; it does not promise a specific number of seconds at any point.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Rank #3
Sale
LISEN Cell Phone Stand Phone Holder for Desk, Office Decor Gadgets for Men
  • Ergonomic & Adjustable Design: Fight "text neck" and improve your posture. Designed for comfort, it offers an adjustable height (7.1in-8.5in) (1.4in adjustable range) and angle (5°-85°) Please note: cell phone stand is only 9 inches tall—the length of a standard pencil
  • Without blocking subtitles Perfect for office desk Tiktok Face Time Zoom video—this is the ultimate kitchen desk essential for phones! Perfect viewing experience while reducing neck back strain, A must-have for gamers streamers desk, and anyone who values both style and support!
  • Sleek & Stable Design fits Otterbox Case: Say goodbye to bent cables, tangles, and tip-overs! LISEN’s stylish adjustable desk phone holder features a built-in charging hole and smart cable management, keeping your phone secure and your workspace clutter-free cool gadgets for men
  • ANTI-SLIP DESIGN free hands: The under 10.00 items easy gadgets back and the bottom of this kitchen essentials for women are fully covered by anti-skid silicone, which LISEN stand up desk decor can provide maximum protection device from any scratches and slides
  • Your Perfect Viewing Companion:If your product arrives damaged or breaks within 365 days, reach out to LISEN for a quick and hassle-free solution. Struggling with assembly, like tightening the screw? We’ve got your back! Your experience matters to us. (Product including: phone Holder stand*1, screw*1, hexagon screwdriver*1, specification*1)
Value or band Intended result Use it when Important qualification
0 Lowest point on the documented scale, giving the longest intended exposure window. You want to test the minimum modifier in a private or controlled environment. The documentation does not state that this value makes a player immune to sunlight or removes every sunlight effect.
Between 0 and 1.0 Longer exposure before damage than the default direction. Sunlight feels too punishing but should still matter. The change in seconds is not specified.
1.0 Documented default behavior. You want to restore the standard setting. “Default” refers to the documented server setting, not a guarantee that every custom difficulty preset uses it.
Between 1.0 and 5 Shorter exposure before damage than the default direction. You want sunlight to become more dangerous. Use incremental changes because the game does not publish a linear conversion.
5 Highest point on the documented scale, giving the shortest intended exposure window. You are testing the strongest documented modifier. The documentation does not define an exact delay or damage amount for this endpoint.

A practical tuning cycle is to start at the documented default, move by a modest amount such as 0.25, restart, and test. Keep a note of the value and the conditions of each test. If a group includes new players, make one change, tell everyone when it will take effect, and avoid changing the value during an active event or boss attempt.

Why the visual sun does not change

The word “intensity” can suggest a graphics option, but SunDamageModifier is described as an exposure-duration or damage modifier. It does not dim the sky, alter shadows, change monitor brightness, or make daytime look darker. A player can therefore see the same sunlight while receiving damage on a different schedule.

If your goal is a different visual appearance, this server key is the wrong tool. Do not infer from a brighter or darker monitor, a graphics preset, or a weather change that the server value has been applied. Verify it by measuring the gameplay window before sunlight damage begins.

Rank #4
Ledagic IC+RGBW USB Powered Led Light Bar with App & Remote Control, 2 Pack
  • Easy Installation: Our gaming lights have been designed to enhance your entertainment experience. Simply position the led light bar next to your TV or game console to create a game room environment with ease. They come with USB power and a 60 inch cord for direct mounting and mobility
  • Audio Syncing & Extensive Mode: The built-in high-sensitivity music sensor allows you to sync the TV led lights to your favorite music. Lights react and move to the beat of music, film and game audio, creating an incredible immersive sound and light experience – and all without the need for an additional hub. You can choose from 64+ patterns, including strobe, illusion, jump, energy, gradient, running, chasing, fluttering mode etc. Each mode can be applied to different scenes
  • 64+ Chasing IC+RGB & W Effect: The independent control design of IC+RGB and white all-in-one multifunctional rgbw led bar lights monitor backlight allows you to easily switch the led lights for desk between IC+RGB and white to enjoy a variety of lighting effects, you can choose white lighting mode with high brightness for better illumination when working, etc. Choose IC+RGB lighting mode when you need to create an entertaining atmosphere for the light show, 16 million colours of Color changing rgb light bar let you dance to the beat and create a dynamic party atmosphere
  • Dynamic and Dimmable Lights: 1%-full brightness free brightness adjustment gives you the flexibility to adjust dimmable led light bar for room decorations or a variety of occasions
  • USB Powered: USB light bars for room can be powered by powernank, usb charger, TV, Monitor, laptop PC mainframe, making behind TV led lighting bar easy to install in any location.TV led lights are powered by the TV usb interface / PC mainframe, can be turned on/off synchronously with TV / PC

Managed hosting: the same setting, a different workflow

On a hosted server, the JSON edit is conceptually identical, but the control panel adds a few failure points.

  1. Use the panel’s Stop action and wait until the server is fully offline.
  2. Open the panel’s file manager or connect through the provider’s documented file-transfer method.
  3. Locate the persistent Settings directory and open ServerGameSettings.json.
  4. Download a backup before saving an edited copy.
  5. Change or add SunDamageModifier, then use the panel’s save/upload action.
  6. Check that the panel did not regenerate the file from a template after saving.
  7. Start the server and wait for it to finish loading before reconnecting.

Some providers expose a setting form instead of raw JSON. If the form has a sunlight-damage or difficulty field, confirm which file it writes and whether it regenerates ServerGameSettings.json. A form-generated file can overwrite a manual edit at the next restart.

Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Support on Ko-Fi

Self-hosted versus managed hosting

Consideration Self-hosted dedicated client Managed hosting
Where to edit The persistent-data Settings override location from Stunlock’s dedicated-server instructions. The provider’s persistent settings directory, file manager, or documented transfer location.
How to stop and start Your service manager, launch script, or dedicated-server process. The host’s control panel controls.
Backup responsibility You are responsible for copying the JSON files and retaining versions. You still need your own backup; a host’s automated world backup may not preserve every configuration revision.
Common overwrite risk Editing the shipped defaults file, which updates can replace. A panel template or generated configuration replacing the manual edit.
Override risk A named difficulty preset in ServerHostSettings.json. The same preset, plus provider startup scripts that apply a template.

Stunlock’s server Q&A recognizes both provider-hosted private servers and self-run dedicated clients. The file names and precedence rules remain the important parts of the sunlight change regardless of who supplies the machine.

Best Value
Sale
HUANUO FlowLift™ Dual Monitor Stand, Fully Adjustable Gaming Monitor Desk Mount for 13–32″ Computer Screens, Full Motion VESA 75x75/100x100 with C-Clamp & Grommet Base, Each Arm Holds 4.4 to 19.8 lbs
  • Compatible with Wide Screens - To ensure compatibility with the dual monitor mount, your each monitor must meet three conditions at the same time: First, computer screens size range: 13 to 32 inches. Second, screen weight range: 4.4 to 19.8 lbs. Third, the back of the monitor screen must have VESA mounting holes with a pitch of 75x75mm or 100x100mm.
  • Regarding the compatibility with desks - Your desk must meet three conditions at the same time: First, desk material: Only wooden desks are recommended, plastic or glass desks cannot be used. Second, desk thickness range: 0.59" - 3.54". Third, the bottom of the desk should not have any cross beams or panels, as this will interfere with installation. We recommend carefully checking that your desk and monitors meets all above conditions before purchasing.
  • Dual C-Clamp Hold - Worried your dual monitors might wobble or slip? Our upgraded base uses a larger platform plus a dual C-clamp structure to lock the dual monitor arm firmly to your desk. Each arm safely keeps your screens steady while you type, click and game—no shaking, no sliding, just a clean and secure setup you can trust every day. It also provides Grommet Mounting installation choice, both options ensure stable and secure fixation for your 0.59" - 3.54" desk.
  • Full-Motion Adjustment For Comfortable View - Pull the screen closer when you’re deep in a spreadsheet, push it back to watch videos, or rotate to portrait for coding — moving everything smoothly with just one hand. The monitor stand offers +85°/-50° tilt, ±90° swivel and 360° rotation. Raise your monitor up to 15.75″ to support a healthy sitting posture. Whether you’re working from home, gaming through the night, or switching between video calls and documents, getting the screens to your natural line of sight helps relieve neck, shoulder and back strain so you can stay focused longer with less fatigue.
  • Keep Your Desk Organized: By lifting both screens off the desktop, this dual monitor stand opens up valuable space for your keyboard, notebook, docking station or a simple, clutter-free work area. Built-in cable management guides wires along the arms, keeping cords out of sight and out of the way. Enjoy a tidy, modern workstation that looks as good as it feels to use.

When the change does not work

The server starts, but sunlight behaves exactly as before

  • Confirm that you edited the file loaded by the active world, not a shipped defaults file or an unused installation.
  • Check capitalization and spelling: the key is exactly SunDamageModifier.
  • Confirm that the value is numeric and within the documented range.
  • Stop and restart the server after saving. A client reconnect alone is not a substitute for the server restart.
  • Reopen the file after startup to see whether a panel or script reverted it.

A restart appears to undo the value

Inspect ServerHostSettings.json for a named difficulty preset. Current configuration guidance warns that a preset can override individual ServerGameSettings.json values when the server starts. If a preset is active, decide whether the preset or the direct JSON value should be authoritative, then adjust the preset configuration or disable it according to the version’s server instructions. Do not assume that the last file you edited wins.

Free tools Windows power users keep installed

One-click scans. No signup required.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

The server fails to load after saving

  • Restore the backup to bring the server back online.
  • Validate the edited file for a missing comma, extra comma, mismatched brace, or typographic quote.
  • Check that the filename and extension are unchanged.
  • Reapply only the sunlight edit to the restored valid file, then restart and test.

The setting changes, but the result seems inconsistent

Sunlight exposure can be affected by the player’s exact position, timing, and other gameplay conditions. Test the same character in the same type of daylight location, and change only this modifier between trials. Because no official seconds conversion is published, judge the result by a consistent before-and-after observation rather than by a calculated prediction.

Keeping the configuration maintainable

Use a simple change log for a server shared by several administrators. Record the old value, new value, date, editor, and whether the server was restarted. This makes it easier to identify an unexpected difficulty change after an update or a restored backup.

  • Keep a dated copy of the last known-good ServerGameSettings.json.
  • Back up before game updates, migration to a new host, or changing a difficulty preset.
  • After an update, verify that the persistent override still exists and that the key was not moved into a regenerated template.
  • Tell players whether the goal is longer daytime travel or harsher sunlight so they understand a gameplay change that leaves the visuals untouched.

The safest long-term arrangement is one authoritative configuration path: either a deliberately managed difficulty preset or direct values in the persistent game-settings file, with backups documenting each change.

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.

What’s actually slowing this PC down?

Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

More quests from Patch Notes

  1. How to Set Up a RedM (RDR2) Server in 2026: License Key, txAdmin and server.cfg, Step by StepBlog11min
  2. Best RedM (RDR2) Server Hosting in 2026: Comparing Four Hosts on Slots, Memory and PriceBlog10min
  3. How to Host a Mindustry Server in 2026: server-release.jar, Port 6567 and the Commands That MatterBlog7min
Recommended PC Tool
Recommended PC Tool
Windows Errors? Fix Them Before They SpreadFree repair scan
Crashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?Free driver scan

Two free Windows tools

One Free Minute Could Fix That PC

Before you go - each of these free tools takes about a minute and tackles what quietly slows a Windows PC down.

Special offer. View Outbyte info, uninstall instructions, EULA, and Privacy Policy.