.3DS File Extension

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