3DS files exist as 2 different types. Please find information about each of them below.
Type 1: 3D Studio Scene
General Information
| Title | .3DS File Extension |
| Extension | .3ds |
| Full Form | 3D Studio Scene |
| File Type | 3D Image File |
| Developer | Autodesk |
| MIME Type | image/x-3ds |
File Function
| Primary Function | Store 3D models |
| Additional Functions | Contain textures, lighting data |
| Features | Mesh data, Animation |
File Characteristics
| Quality | High detail |
| Supports Layers | No |
| Supports Transparency | Yes |
| Editable | Yes |
Use Cases
| Video Games | Yes |
| Film Production | Yes |
| Architectural Visualization | Yes |
| Scientific Research | Yes |
Security and Practices
| Security Risks | File corruption, Vulnerabilities |
| Best Practices | Regular updates, Backups |
Historical/Version Information
| Initial Release | 1980s |
| Latest Version | Dependent on software |
Associated Types
| Similar Extensions | .max, .obj, .fbx, .dwg |
Software Compatibility
| Software | Usage Policy | OS Compatibility |
|---|---|---|
 Autodesk 3ds Max |
Paid | Windows |
 Blender |
Free | Windows, Mac, Linux |
 MeshLab |
Free | Windows, Mac, Linux |
Type 2: Nintendo 3DS ROM
General Information
| Title | 3DS File Extension |
| Extension | .3ds |
| Full Form | Nintendo 3DS ROM File |
| File Type | Game ROM File |
| Developer | Nintendo |
| MIME Type | application/x-3ds |
File Function
| Primary Function | Store game data |
| Additional Functions | Support gameplay, Archive game |
| Features | Encrypted, Read-only |
File Characteristics
| Quality | High |
| Supports Layers | N/A |
| Supports Transparency | N/A |
| Editable | No |
Use Cases
| Console Gaming | Yes |
| Emulation | Yes |
| Game Development | Limited |
Security and Practices
| Security Risks | Piracy, Malware |
| Best Practices | Legal use, Updated emulator |
Historical/Version Information
| Initial Release | 2011 |
| Latest Update | Varies by game |
Associated Types
| Similar Extensions | .nds, .cia, .gb, .gbc |
Software Compatibility
| Software | Usage Policy | OS Compatibility |
|---|---|---|
| Citra |
Free | Windows, Mac, Linux |
| R4 3DS Emulator |
Free | Windows |
| 3dmoo |
Free | Windows, Linux |