Skip to content

System Files

While Santa Says provides many configuration files for customization, it also manages several internal files that act as the plugin’s “memory.” These files are structured specifically for machine reading and high-speed data access.


File PathPrimary FunctionManagement Method
arenas.ymlStores all physical data for arenas (locations, regions, settings).Managed via /ss setup menu.
stats.ymlLocal database for player statistics (Wins, Losses, Streaks).Used only when database: flat is selected.
recovery/arena-recoveries.ymlStores active game states to prevent data loss during crashes.Managed automatically by the game.


This is the most critical system file. It contains every coordinate, region boundary, and specific option for every arena you have created.

  • Why you shouldn’t touch it: A single missing comma or a slightly wrong coordinate format will prevent the arena from loading, often requiring a complete redo of the setup.
  • How to update: Use the Setup Menu to change locations or arena options.

When your server is set to flat database mode, all festive achievements (wins, losses, streaks) are recorded here.

  • Why you shouldn’t touch it: The plugin keeps a live cache of player data in the server’s memory. If you modify this file while the server is running, the plugin will eventually overwrite your changes with its own cached data, causing your manual edits to be lost forever.
  • How to update: If you absolutely must edit this file manually, you must shut down the server completely first. After the server is offline, you can make your changes and then start it back up.

This file is part of our arena protection system. If your server restarts unexpectedly or crashes while a game is in progress, this file helps the plugin understand which arenas need a “clean reset” or a state recovery.

  • Why you shouldn’t touch it: It is a temporary storage. Manually deleting it while a game is “hanging” might lead to internal errors on the next boot.