Understanding Filename Extensions

[Ark of Truth]

What is a filename extension?

A filename extension is a suffix which is used to indicate a file type and is located at the end of a file name after a dot. Each filename extension has a different file encoding or different format in which it is created.

What are the most common formats used in modding and which programs are need to unpack some of them?

The most common file formats used in modding are as follows:

• .7z
• .zip
• .rar
• .txt
• .esp
• .esm
• .nif
• .dds

7z
A 7z file is a file format designed to compress and archive one or more files inside it. It is considered the best out of the 7z, RAR and ZIP file types due to it's ability to support multiple data compression types, encryption and pre-processing algorithms.

7z files can only be opened using 7zip and WirRar (As long as you tell it to)

ZIP
A .ZIP file is file format designed to compress and archive one or more files inside of it. In order to use the files contained inside it you must first extract the files out of their compressed state. (more commonly known as unpacking)

ZIP files can be opened using WinRar, 7zip or WinZip.

RAR
A RAR file is another file format used to compress and archive one or more files inside it. It is considered the better and most commonly used type out of RAR and ZIP due to it using better compression methods, better setting adjustments and the ability to have many same name files unlike ZIP which requires you to rename each file to a different name.

RAR files can be opened using WinRAR and 7Zip.

TXT
A TXT file is a file used to store information in plain text. These files when used with mods contain instructions on how to set up a mod as well as some troubleshooting information can be found inside them.

TXT files can be opened using Notepad, Notepad++, Wordpad, Microsoft Word and in some cases your internet browser.

ESP and ESM
The ESP and ESM plugins are used in all Bethesda games to add official and custom made content to game like Skyrim and Oblivion.
It should be noted that all Bethesda games require a different program to open a esp or esm, this means a ESP or ESM designed for Skyrim cannot be opened by the same program used to open a ESP or ESM for Oblivion. This is basic


These file types can be open by the following programs.

Oblivion ESP and ESMs can be opened using the Elder Scrolls Construction Set.

Skyrim ESP and ESMs can be opened using the Elder Scrolls Construction Kit.

Fallout 3 ESP and ESMs can be opened using the Garden of Eden Construction Kit or G.E.C.K.

Fallout New Vegas ESP and ESMs can be opened using the Garden of Eden Construction Kit (New Vegas Edition)

DOWNLOADS

WinRAR
WinZip
7Zip
Elder Scrolls Construction Set
Garden of Eden Construction Kits (Fallout 3 and Fallout New Vegas)

For the Skyrim Construction Kit you will need to download the program through Steam under Tools.