The Pastlands is a 1.20.1 Forge modded SMP that is meant to feel alive and stick around for the long run. It is built for players who like automation big builds and working with other people.
The server runs a custom CurseForge modpack and it gets updated every two weeks. They try to keep things fresh without wrecking your progress. The pack leans into Create with extra addons plus MineColonies and a bunch of magic mods like Ars Occultism and Botania.
Exploration is a big deal here with lots of worldgen and structure mods like YUNG type stuff. There are also storage tech decoration and other quality of life mods plus minimaps voice chat and performance mods.
The community side seems like the main point. Staff are active and actually play. Players can suggest mods and the server tests them then adds them if it works. They also talk about polls feedback and a long term world with no random wipes.
Gameplay has claims and protection and chunk loading. They focus on stability too since it is self hosted on their own hardware with regular maintenance and quick bug fixes. Events are planned as more players join.
Pastlands 1.20.1 Forge Modded SMP
Biweekly pack updatesChunk loading enabledColony management playExploration heavy mapsquality of life
GG.MINEWIND.NET New Server IPTaerel Network Dark Fantasy Modded SMP

I found Taerel Network and it feels like a dark fantasy survival place with a whole story behind it. The server is built around strange portal worlds that feel alien and new. It starts with a small settlement and a lake and a weird tree and then the darkness outside feels dangerous.
The main thing here is a modded SMP experience using their own custom modpacks. Each server can have different modded biomes so the world feels unfamiliar and kind of spooky. They also say the map will not reset so it is meant for long term survival and building.
The owner is active and friendly and the staff is active too. The server is whitelisted so you have to ask to get in before you can play.
GG.MINEWIND.NET New Server IP
