.BSP File Extension

BSP files exist as 2 different types. Please find information about each of them below.

Type 1: Quake or Source Engine Game Map

General Information

Title BSP File Extension
Extension .bsp
Full Form Binary Space Partitioning File
File Type Game Map File
Developer id Software, Valve Corporation
MIME Type application/octet-stream

File Function

Primary Function Store map geometry
Additional Functions Contain, textures, objects, lighting
Features Binary format, optimized rendering

File Characteristics

Quality High efficiency
Supports Layers No
Supports Transparency Yes
Editable With tools

Use Cases

3D Video Games Yes
Level Design Yes
Modding Yes

Security and Practices

Security Risks Map exploits
Best Practices Validate files, secure storage

Historical/Version Information

Initial Release c. 1996
Updates Engine specific

Associated Types

Similar Extensions .map, .vmf

Software Compatibility

Software Usage Policy OS Compatibility
Valve Hammer Editor Free Windows
Quake Engine Varies Varies
Source Engine Varies Windows, Linux, Mac

Type 2: Mario Kart Wii Binary Settings and Physics File

General Information

Title BSP File Extension
Extension .bsp
Full Form Binary Space Partitioning File
File Type Game Data File
Developer Nintendo
MIME Type application/octet-stream

File Function

Primary Function Store settings, physics
Additional Functions Define gameplay parameters
Features Binary format, Game-specific

File Characteristics

Quality Game-specific
Supports Layers N/A
Supports Transparency N/A
Editable With tools

Use Cases

Game Modding Yes
Custom Tracks Yes
Game Analysis Yes

Security and Practices

Security Risks File corruption
Best Practices Backup originals, Verify sources

Historical/Version Information

Associated Game Mario Kart Wii
File Usage Since 2008

Associated Types

Similar Extensions .szs, .brres, .mdl0, .kcl

Software Compatibility

Software Usage Policy OS Compatibility
Dolphin Emulator Free Windows, Mac, Linux
SZS Modifier Free Windows
Wiimms SZS Tools Free Windows, Mac, Linux